DRUGS AND SUPPLEMENTS

Testosterone nasal gel

July 17, 2018

Testosterone nasal gel

What is this medicine?

TESTOSTERONE (tes TOS ter one) is the main male hormone. It supports normal male traits such as muscle growth, facial hair, and deep voice. This medicine is used in males to treat low testosterone levels.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for use in the nose. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Blow your nose gently before applying this medicine. Wash your hands after use. Do not use on any other body part. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

A special MedGuide will be given to you by the pharmacist with each prescription and refill. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

  • breast enlargement

  • breathing problems

  • changes in emotions or moods, especially anger, depression, or rage

  • dark urine

  • general ill feeling or flu-like symptoms

  • light-colored stools

  • loss of appetite, nausea

  • nausea, vomiting

  • pain, swelling, warmth in the leg

  • right upper belly pain

  • stomach pain

  • swelling of the ankles, feet, hands

  • too frequent or persistent erections

  • trouble passing urine or change in the amount of urine

  • unusually weak or tired

  • yellowing of the eyes or skin

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

  • acne

  • change in sex drive or performance

  • cough

  • diarrhea

  • hair loss

  • headache

  • nose bleed

  • nose pain

  • nose scabs

  • sore throat

  • runny nose

What may interact with this medicine?

  • certain medicines for diabetes

  • certain medicines that treat or prevent blood clots like warfarin

  • other nasal sprays

  • steroid medicines like prednisone or cortisone

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children. This medicine can be abused. Keep your medicine in a safe place to protect it from theft. Do not share this medicine with anyone. Selling or giving away this medicine is dangerous and against the law.

Store at room temperature between 20 to 25 degrees C (68 to 77 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date. Replace your dispenser when the top of the piston inside the dispenser reaches the arrow at the top of the inside label. Safely throw away your empty dispenser in your household trash away from pets and children.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • breast cancer

  • breathing problems while you sleep (sleep apnea)

  • diabetes

  • current nose or sinus problems like runny nose, sinus surgery, or broken nose

  • heart disease

  • kidney disease

  • liver disease

  • lung disease

  • prostate cancer, enlargement

  • Sjogren's syndrome

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to testosterone, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • if a female partner is pregnant or trying to get pregnant

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. They will need to check the level of testosterone in your blood.

This medicine is only approved for use in men who have low levels of testosterone related to certain medical conditions. Heart attacks and strokes have been reported with the use of this medicine. Notify your doctor or health care professional and seek emergency treatment if you develop breathing problems; changes in vision; confusion; chest pain or chest tightness; sudden arm pain; severe, sudden headache; trouble speaking or understanding; sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg; loss of balance or coordination. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of this medicine.

This medicine may affect blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes, check with your doctor or health care professional before you change your diet or the dose of your diabetic medicine.

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before applying other medicines in the nose.

This drug is banned from use in athletes by most athletic organizations.

Updated:  

July 17, 2018