Testosterone topical solution

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 applied at the same time every day (preferably in the morning) to clean, dry, intact skin of the armpit. Follow the directions on the prescription label. If you take a bath or shower in the morning, apply the medicine after the bath or shower. If you use deodorants or antiperspirants, use them at least 2 minutes before applying this medicine. Only apply this medicine to the armpits. Do not use on any other body part. To use, remove the cap and the applicator cup from the pump. Fully depress the pump once to dispense solution into the applicator cup. With the applicator cup held upright, wipe the solution down and up into the armpit. Do not use your fingers or hand to rub the medicine into the skin. Allow the skin to dry a few minutes before putting on clothing. The skin solution is flammable. Avoid fire, flame, or smoking until the solution has dried. Wash your hands after use. Avoid bathing or swimming for at least 2 hours after you apply the medicine.

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

• diarrhea

• hair loss

• headache

What may interact with this medicine?

• certain medicines for diabetes

• certain medicines that treat or prevent blood clots like warfarin

• oxyphenbutazone

• propranolol

• 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 upright at room temperature between 15 to 30 degrees C (59 to 86 degrees F). Keep closed until use. Protect from heat and light. This medicine is flammable. Avoid exposure to heat, fire, flame, and smoking. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

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

• heart disease

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

• kidney disease

• liver disease

• lung disease

• prostate cancer, enlargement

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

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

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 can transfer from your body to others. If a person or pet comes in contact with the area where this medicine was applied to your skin, they may have a serious risk of side effects. If you cannot avoid skin-to-skin contact with another person, make sure the site where this medicine was applied is covered with clothing. If accidental contact happens, the skin of the person or pet should be washed right away with soap and water. Also, a female partner who is pregnant or trying to get pregnant should avoid contact with the gel or treated skin.

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.

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