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Low testosterone or hypogonadism is a condition where the body does not produce as much of the male sex hormone, testosterone, which is key to sperm production and male growth and development during puberty. You can be born with a condition that affects testosterone or it can develop later in life due to illness or injury. The main symptoms in adulthood include low libido, depression, lack of energy and erectile dysfunction. Prescription treatments can help to raise levels of testosterone to improve symptoms.
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Advice for Low Testosterone
What is Low Testosterone and what causes it?
Buy Low Testosterone Gel Online - subject to your online consultation
While there are many remedies for low testosterone available over the counter in the UK, many NHS patients choose to buy their low testosterone gel online following their diagnosis. At The Independent Pharmacy, we provide safe and cost-effective treatment designed to help cure the signs of low testosterone. As always, be sure to follow the guidelines for safe and effective use. While there is no simple fix, there are always options available.
Low levels of testosterone in men is also known as hypogonadism. Testosterone is a hormone produced mainly in the testicles. Testosterone is responsible for the development of the male characteristics during puberty as well as maintaining adult bodily functions including, sexual functions, strength and energy levels and the amount of muscle and fat in the body. If the body is unable to produce enough testosterone, a man can experience a variety of unwanted symptoms. These include: depression, anxiety, lack of libido and a reduction in sexual performance.
The levels of testosterone naturally begin to fall once a man is around the age of forty. On average the decrease is between 1-2% a year. If a man’s testosterone levels were not particularly high to begin with then this gradual age-related decline may make the effects seem more pronounced.
Low levels of testosterone can also be attributed to physical damage to the testicles. This damage can be the result of a viral infection, such as mumps or as a result of certain cancer treatments. Low testosterone levels can also be the result of changes in parts of the brain that are responsible for testosterone production. These changes can be the result of brain tumours, direct trauma or abuse of certain drugs, including anabolic steroids.
Another known cause of low testosterone levels is obesity. In the body fat cells naturally convert testosterone into oestrogen. If the levels of fat cells are excessive then more testosterone is being converted, resulting in lower levels.
What are the symptoms of Low Testosterone?
The resulting symptoms of low testosterone include:
- A low sex drive: Testosterone plays a pivotal role in a man’s sex drive (libido). Low levels will likely result in a drastic drop in his desire to have sex.
- Erectile dysfunction: Testosterone is responsible for stimulating the male sex drive. A low level of testosterone is not solely responsible for erectile problems but it can be a contributing factor.
- Low levels of testosterone can lead to a reduction in the size of the testicles.
- Low levels of semen: Testosterone plays an important role in semen production. Low levels will result in a decrease in the amount of semen being produced.
- Hair Loss: Testosterone plays a role in a man’s hair production and growth. Baldness is a natural part of ageing for the majority of men. However, someone presenting with low levels of testosterone may experience facial and bodily hair loss as well, such as a thinning beard.
- Feelings of fatigue and a lack of energy: It is common for men with low levels of testosterone to experience a lack of energy or chronic feelings of fatigue.
- Mood changes: A lack of the hormone testosterone can trigger similar mood changes in men to that which women experience going through the menopause. These symptoms include; irritability, depression and a lack of concentration or focus.
- A reduction in muscle mass: Testosterone plays an important role in the strengthening and building of muscles in men. Low levels of testosterone can make it difficult for men to maintain and build muscle.
- Increase in body fat: Men presenting with low levels of testosterone often experience increased levels of body fat. It is believed the genes responsible for controlling the body fat percentage are also responsible for the circulation of testosterone.
- Reduction in bone mass and joint pain: Testosterone plays an important role in the strengthening and production of bones. Men presenting with low levels of testosterone are more prone to breaks and fractures. Especially in the hips, feet, ribs and wrists.
- Low levels of testosterone may play a role in causing migraines and other types of headaches.
- Excessive sweating and night sweats.
- Vision problems, such as blurred vision.
Can Low Testosterone be prevented?
Testosterone levels naturally decline as men grow older. Unfortunately, it isn’t something that can be prevented using self-help techniques or therapy.
If you experiencing any of the symptoms associated with low testosterone levels, it is recommended to seek specialist medical advice and appropriate treatment.
Alternatives
There are no direct medicinal or non medicinal treatments available to treat low testosterone however, low testosterone can be helped by something as simple as losing weight combined with a healthy balanced diet.
There are some great tips on the NHS Choices website on how to get fit and healthy and maintain a healthy weight.
Low Testosterone FAQs
Symptoms can also be treated by:
- Improving sleep
- Losing weight
- Staying active
These are also good for your overall health.
Overweight men often have low testosterone levels and losing weight can increase levels. In underweight individuals, raising their weight to normal levels can increase their testosterone levels too.
To correctly apply the gel please follow the procedure below:
- Wash and dry the area of skin where you are going to apply the gel thoroughly - normally your upper arm or shoulder.
- Wash your hands and apply a thin layer of gel, using one sachet as directed by the doctor.
- There is no need to rub the gel into the skin, it will absorb naturally and after a few minutes it will have dried enough for you to get dressed.
- If you have been advised that you need to apply two sachets of testosterone gel per day, you should apply one sachet to each shoulder.
- Allow the area to dry before dressing (this usually takes a few minutes). To ensure maximum absorption, do not wash the site of application for at least 6 hours. If you need to bathe or shower occasionally 1-6 hours after application, this should not affect your treatment.
- Wash your hands to ensure they are gel free. This is important so you do not transfer the gel to others.
Testosterone gel is to be applied to the upper arm or shoulder (or abdomen in the case of Tostran) once a day. It is preferable to do this in the morning as this imitates the natural cycles of testosterone in the body. If this is not possible, it should be applied at the same time each day.
Do not apply testosterone gel to the genitals or the chest area. The gel contains a high alcohol content and is irritating to sensitive areas like the genitals.
Blood tests are needed at the following times:
- Before you start treatment
- After three weeks of treatment
- After six months of treatment
- Yearly thereafter
The initial blood test is performed to establish a baseline testosterone level and to determine if you have a low testosterone. The range is varied and individual levels can be different depending on age and other factors. All consultations are assessed individually. The result of your blood test is used in conjunction with your symptoms to help to establish a diagnosis.
Another blood test is performed after three weeks to determine if the medicine is having the right effect and the levels have gone up. This, combined with an improvement in your symptoms, ensures it is right for you to continue with the treatment.
Further blood tests are carried out after six months and then yearly during treatment to ensure that the treatment is still effective and your testosterone remains within a normal range.
There are some changes that you may notice within the first few weeks of treatment (e.g. more energy and improved sexual function). This happens because you are absorbing the gel and your body is also producing testosterone. After a couple of weeks you may notice that it isn’t working as effectively as before because you body has adapted to the higher levels of testosterone in your system and cut back on production. This is normal and you need to give you treatment time to stabilize.
Long term effects, like increased metabolism and weight loss may be seen after a couple of months of regular use.
To ensure you get the best from your medication, it is best to apply it regularly as instructed.
It is important to keep notes of your symptoms to compare how you feel after three weeks of using the medicine to when you started. You can compare the symptoms, alongside the testosterone test results, before and after using the gel to see if there has been an improvement.
It is always important to tell your prescriber, online or face-to-face, if you are taking any other medication or herbal treatments from the doctor or pharmacy. However insignificant you may think it is, it’s better to double check.
Testosterone treatments are best not taken with steroids or blood thinners like warfarin. However this is not a complete list, please check the Patient Information Leaflet for your testosterone gel to ensure that there is no problem with any medicines you currently take. This should also be checked by your prescriber - this is why you should always disclose any other medicines you take.
Changes in testosterone levels can improve type-2 diabetes meaning that adjustment of blood sugar controlling medication may be necessary. If you suffer with diabetes (type-1 or type-2) and you lose weight, you should always see your doctor to re-assess your medication.
(Video) How To Get TRT in the UK - Step by StepTo avoid the transfer of testosterone gel to other people ensure you wash your hands after every application and cover the area after it is dry with clothing. Prolonged exposure to uncovered treated skin could cause unwanted hair on the face, a deep voice and a change in the menstrual cycle of your partner.
Pregnant women should not come into contact with the testosterone gel under any circumstances as it has harmful effects on the baby and is present in breast milk. If your partner becomes pregnant follow the advice above.
Testosterone gels can cause side effects like all medicines, but this doesn’t mean that you will necessarily see any of the effects below.
The most common side effects include:
- Itching, a rash, acne or dryness of the skin in the areas where the gel has been applied -This may affect up to 10 in 100 men.
Additionally it may also cause:
- Hair loss.
- Development of painful and tender breast tissue.
- This may affect 1 in 100 men using the medication.
Apply the next dose when you remember and then continue as normal. If it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue as usual. Do not apply twice the recommended amount to make up for the missed dose.
If your symptoms do not improve after applying the gel regularly then contact your prescriber for further medical advice. We may need to review your treatment to ensure the dose is correct for you and ensure you are applying it correctly.
Symptoms of low testosterone can overlap with a number of other condition including diabetes, hypothyroidism, anxiety and depression. If your symptoms do not improve but your testosterone levels increase with treatment, it may indicate that low testosterone is not the cause of your symptoms. In this case you should see your doctor for further tests.
The old concepts that there are definite links between prostate cancer and testosterone treatment have been dismissed.
Initially, a study in 1981 looked at men with prostate cancer who were given testosterone treatment. These men either had no testosterone in their system or were given treatments to reduce the testosterone production to zero. Reintroducing testosterone or removing the treatment blocking the production might increase the chance of the residual cancer to grow again.
In 2008, a study of 9000 men (3000 with prostate cancer and 6000 without) showed no correlation between prostate cancer and the levels of free testosterone, bound testosterone or any other androgens (male hormones).
Many studies now conclude that there is no evidence to prove or disprove a link between using testosterone replacement gel and prostate cancer.
It is recommended that any man using testosterone replacement gel has a prostate exam before the end of the first year of treatment.
Testosterone gel is best left for six hours after application to be fully absorbed. During this time do not wash the area. The gel is usually dry after 3 to 5 minutes and then clothes can be placed over the top to protect the area.
It is a common symptom to have erectile dysfunction issues when you are suffering with low testosterone. Not achieving an erection or the inability to maintain one can be distressing. Using testosterone replacement gels should help to improve any erectile problems.
You may find that erections are stronger and last longer directly after application of the gel and for a few hours after. However, there may be a need for erectile dysfunction treatment, like Viagra or Cialis, if you would like to have sex at different times. We also provide treatment and information on Erectile Dysfunction.
(Video) The Effects of Testosterone Gel on Health OutcomesDespite that fact that it often leads to fatigue and reduced energy levels, low testosterone can also cause insomnia and other changes to your sleep patterns, leaving you tired and unable to sleep. Testosterone replacement therapy can also contribute to (or cause) sleep apnea. If you’re suffering from insomnia, try our range of insomnia treatments.
Low testosterone can sometimes occur in young adults and boys as they reach puberty. Usually as boys reach their teens, testosterone levels peak, which is what often leads to acne. However, there are various factors that can lead to a drop in testosterone in the young, including diabetes, chronic liver or kidney disease, COPD, or pituitary gland problems. It can also be hereditary, as with Klinefelter syndrome, Kallmann syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, and Myotonic dystrophy.
Low testosterone can affect fertility in young men, as testosterone is needed for sperm production. If you suspect your testosterone levels are lower than average, consult your doctor or urologist. Consider also whether you could have a zinc deficiency. Sometimes treating low testosterone is as simple as figuring out what your diet is lacking.
It’s quite rare to hear the words ‘bodybuilding’ and ‘low testosterone’ in the same sentence, but as any bodybuilder knows, testosterone is one of the most important hormones for building muscle from your workout. Some put their zero gains down to being an ‘ectomorph’, but sometimes lack of muscle gain can also be a result of low testosterone. It’s important to beware of dangerous ‘muscle gain’ supplements that promise fast results – nine times out of ten, these supplements do not work.
While testosterone is usually associated with men, women actually need small amounts of testosterone as well. Female sexual health can be seriously impacted by low testosterone levels, with other symptoms including tiredness, weight gain, loss of sex drive, mood swings, anxiety, hair loss and difficulty concentrating. Many women living with low testosterone simply assume it is part of getting older, but there are treatments available, just as there are for men.
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FAQs
Can you buy AndroGel over the counter? ›
USE. AndroGel® (testosterone gel) 1% and 1.62% are controlled substances, available by prescription, used to treat adult males who have low or no testosterone due to certain medical conditions.
Do you need a prescription for testosterone gel? ›Testosterone is a male hormone responsible for the growth and development of the male sex organs and maintenance of secondary sex characteristics. This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription. This product is available in the following dosage forms: Gel/Jelly.
How long does it take for Testogel to start working? ›Effects on sexual interest appear after 3 weeks plateauing at 6 weeks, with no further increments expected beyond. Changes in erections/ejaculations may require up to 6 months. Effects on quality of life manifest within 3–4 weeks, but maximum benefits take longer.
Where do you apply testosterone gel for maximum absorption? ›Testosterone gel is typically applied to parts of the body that can be easily covered by clothing. This includes the upper arms, shoulders or upper thighs.
Is there anything over-the-counter for low testosterone? ›It's important to reiterate that testosterone replacement therapy involves medications that include testosterone hormone. In contrast, none of the over-the-counter drugs that claim to boost testosterone levels include testosterone!
What medication is similar to AndroGel? ›- Xyosted.
- Androderm.
- Testim.
- Fortesta.
- Chorionic gonadotropin (hcg)
- Aveed.
Testosterone therapy online can address your low testosterone levels. After receiving lab work done and speaking with a doctor, you can get a testosterone prescription online.
Can I buy testosterone over the counter? ›Testosterone, as a Schedule III drug, is available only with a prescription. Although there are many supplements claiming to boost testosterone, these over-the-counter products do not contain testosterone and lack any peer reviewed evidence of effectiveness.
How much is a bottle of testosterone gel? ›Brand names for testosterone include AndroGel, Testim, Fortesta, and Vogelxo. The cost for testosterone transdermal gel (20.25 mg/actuation (1.62%)) is around $112 for a supply of 75 grams, depending on the pharmacy you visit.
Is 1 ml of testosterone a week enough to Build muscle? ›1 ml per week is 200 mg per week of testosterone. This is a replacement dose not shown to increase lean mass significantly in the short term. However, using higher doses may also increase red blood cell production and blood viscosity, so your doctor needs to monitor your hematocrit blood levels.
Can AndroGel increase muscle mass? ›
Over 150 hypogonadal men who received the AndroGel replacement for 6 months showed significant improvement in sexual function, mood, lean mass, and muscle strength and decreases in fat mass and percent body fat (3).
Is 200mg of testosterone a week too much? ›You're Taking Too Much Testosterone
In order to achieve an optimal level of testosterone (700-1100 ng/dL), most men require supplementation of 100 to 200 mg of testosterone weekly. Contrast this with excessive doses taken by bodybuilders, some of whom take 1,000 mg or more of testosterone per week.
Adults—At first, apply 60 milligrams (mg) (1 pump or 1 twist actuation of 30 mg) to each clean, dry, intact skin of your underarm once a day (usually in the morning). Your doctor may adjust your dose as needed. Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
Is testosterone gel better than injections? ›That said, injections carry a number of advantages over other methods. Gels can be messy and inconvenient, and can sometimes get rubbed off, causing confusions on how much to apply. Furthermore, absorption rates with gels may be lower than optimal, and some patients may not achieve the necessary testosterone levels.
How do I make my testosterone gel absorb better? ›The alcohol in the gel allows the skin to absorb it better. Skin absorbs better when moist, so applying after a bath may help your body absorb the full dose your doctor is giving you. Applying a moisturizer to the skin an hour after the gel also helps absorption.
What is the best thing to take for low testosterone? ›Men low in testosterone should eat foods with zinc and vitamin D. These can help balance your hormones and produce more testosterone. Adult men should get about 11 milligrams of zinc per day. Zinc is in meat, poultry, seafood, and shellfish.
Should a 70 year old man take testosterone? ›Testosterone replacement is likely beneficial in healthy older subjects with significant hypogonadism. Testosterone replacement in individuals with borderline low or low-normal testosterone levels is yet to be proven effective and may not outweigh the risks.
What is the strongest over the counter testosterone? ›#1. TestoPrime: Highest Quality and Best Overall. TestoPrime is one of the best testosterone boosters on the market, thanks to its powerful formulation. TestoPrime is an all-natural testosterone support formula that can help any man boost their vitality, increase energy, build muscle, and burn excess fat.
Is there a generic version of AndroGel? ›Both strengths (brand and generic) come in a metered-dose pump, and 25 mg and 50 mg packets. Androgel 1% and Androgel 1.62% are not interchangeable—they deliver different amounts of testosterone and are to be applied to different locations on the body. How is Androgel usually taken?
Which is better Testim or AndroGel? ›Androgel® showed the highest total weight loss (97%) whereas Testim® showed the least (84%). Testim was reported to have a stickiness issue, which could be related to other excipients such as PG, PEG, and glycerin. At the same time, these excipients are known as penetration enhancers for topical products.
What tier drug is testosterone gel? ›
Medicare prescription drug plans typically list testosterone on Tier 4 of their formulary. Generally, the higher the tier, the more you have to pay for the medication. Most plans have 5 tiers.
How can I increase my testosterone level quickly? ›- Improve your diet. Adopting and maintaining a healthy diet benefits your testosterone levels in two primary ways: ...
- Mix cardio with strength training, and vice versa. ...
- Get plenty of sleep. ...
- Take steps to reduce stress. ...
- Address any underlying medical conditions.
You can get testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) in the UK. The Centre for Men's Health has TRT clinics in London and Manchester and has been operating for over 25 years. During that time the Centre has helped thousands of men regain their health, vitality and wellbeing.
How often do you use testosterone gel? ›Topical testosterone comes as a gel and solution to apply to the skin. It is usually applied once a day. It is best to apply testosterone gel or solution in the morning. To help you remember to apply testosterone topical, apply it at around the same time every day.
How do I get a prescription for TRT UK? ›You need to start testosterone treatments through your GP in person before you reorder your treatments online. It needs to be prescribed by your doctor first after you've had your symptoms checks and had proper blood testing.
What countries can you buy steroids over the counter? ›For example, steroids are legal only with a prescription in France, Australia, Germany, and other countries. While you can buy them with or without a prescription in countries like Colombia, the Bahamas, or Egypt. In this article, we discuss where steroids are legal around the world.
What is a dangerously low testosterone level? ›In general, levels below 300 ng/dL combined with symptoms are indicators of testosterone deficiency. If it is determined that you may benefit from testosterone therapy, we take this seriously. In men who have severe symptoms, getting treatment can be life changing.
How many pumps are in a bottle of testosterone gel? ›Each 88 g metered-dose pump is capable of dispensing 75 g of gel or 60-metered pump actuations; each pump actuation dispenses 1.25 g of gel. AndroGel 1.62% is also supplied in unit-dose aluminum foil packets in cartons of 30.
What is the cheapest form of testosterone replacement therapy? ›...
Symptoms of Low T include:
- Reduced libido.
- Slowed metabolism.
- Weight gain.
- Depression.
- Hot flashes.
In Canada, testosterone is available as a long-acting injectable (testosterone cypionate and testosterone enanthate), oral product (testosterone undecanoate) or topical product [testosterone transdermal patch (Androderm), testosterone 1% topical gel (Testim), testosterone 1% gel foil packet and pump (Androgel) and ...
Is 500mg of testosterone a week too much? ›
Conclusions: Doses of testosterone up to five times physiologic replacement dose appear to have minimal risk of adverse psychosexual effects in the majority of normal men; however, beginning at around 500 mg per week of testosterone cypionate, a minority of normal men may experience significant adverse psychological ...
What is a safe amount of testosterone to take per week? ›The Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guidelines for testosterone therapy suggest an alternative of either 75 to 100 mg IM weekly or 150 to 200 mg IM every 2 weeks (3).
Is 200mg of testosterone a month enough? ›How should I use this medication? The usual adult dose of testosterone cypionate in men is 200 mg every two weeks, to a maximum of 400 mg per month.
Will testosterone gel make you stronger? ›Testosterone is responsible for increased muscle mass. Leaner body mass helps control weight and increases energy. For men with low testosterone, studies show that treatment can decrease fat mass and increase muscle size and strength.
Is AndroGel worth it? ›AndroGel has an average rating of 7.3 out of 10 from a total of 105 reviews on Drugs.com. 63% of reviewers reported a positive experience, while 19% reported a negative experience.
What happens if you use too much AndroGel? ›Misuse or abuse of testosterone can cause serious side effects such as heart disease (including heart attack), stroke, liver disease, mental/mood problems, abnormal drug-seeking behavior, or improper bone growth (in adolescents). Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often or for longer than prescribed.
How much testosterone do bodybuilders take a week? ›Significant anabolic effects occur at supraphysiologic testosterone levels (>1000 ng/dl), which generally requires weekly doses of 300 mg or more. de Souza G.L. Hallak J.
What happens if you inject too much testosterone? ›Possible negative effects of testosterone therapy may include: an increased risk of cardiovascular complications. worsened symptoms in the lower urinary tract. polycythemia, a rare type of blood cancer.
How much testosterone is too much to inject? ›In general, the dosage is 50–400 mg injected into your muscle every 2–4 weeks. Dosage increases: Your doctor may adjust your dosage based on your testosterone blood levels, response to treatment, and side effects. Maximum dosage: 400 mg injected into your muscle every 2 weeks.
How long does it take for 1% testosterone gel to work? ›Effects on sexual interest appear after 3 weeks plateauing at 6 weeks, with no further increments expected beyond. Changes in erections/ejaculations may require up to 6 months. Effects on quality of life manifest within 3–4 weeks, but maximum benefits take longer.
How long does it take for AndroGel to raise testosterone levels? ›
You may also know Testosterone gel by its brand name, Androgel 1.62%. Most absorption of Testosterone gel happens during the first 4 hours. It's important to improve Testosterone absorption so that you have the best experience – and to avoid habits that decrease absorption.
Can testosterone gel transfer to wife? ›Answer. The short answer is yes. As your partner rubs testosterone gel onto your skin, they're effectively rubbing it in to their own hands, which is why it is always recommended that anyone applying testosterone gel to another person wears gloves.
Why is there a shortage of testosterone gel? ›The company has reported chronic shortages due to manufacturing delays since early 2022. Synthetic testosterone (testosterone cypionate) suppliers Cipla, Hikma, and Sun Pharma did not provide reasons for their shortages, according to ASHP, while Pfizer points to increased demand and manufacturing delays.
Where is testosterone gel best absorbed? ›The recommended Testim application site is limited to the arms/shoulders, whereas AndroGel may be applied to the abdomen, shoulders, and upper arms. Aim: To compare absorption variability when applying Testim to various body sites.
What is the safest form of testosterone therapy? ›Injection of testosterone may be safer and more effective than transdermal administration for combating loss of muscle and bone in older men - PMC. The . gov means it's official.
What are the symptoms of too much testosterone gel? ›This medicine may cause fluid retention (edema) in some patients. Tell your doctor right away if you have bloating or swelling of the face, arms, hands, lower legs, or feet, tingling of the hands or feet, or unusual weight gain or loss.
How much testosterone is absorbed from gel? ›About 9–14% of the T in the gel applied to the skin is bioavailable (24).
Does testosterone gel give you more energy? ›Testosterone Therapy “Often Makes Them Feel Better”
“The biggest benefit is usually in how men feel,” Anawalt says. “For hypogonadal men, testosterone therapy often makes them feel better. Many men will report improved sexual function and pleasure and some will report improved energy and vitality.”
Axiron and AndroGel are brand names for synthetic (man-made) testosterone that can be used to treat low testosterone levels. These drugs are both clear, topical medications. The main difference between the brands is the location on your body where you apply each drug.
How much is in one pump of AndroGel? ›3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS
The 75 g (60 metered-dose) pump delivers 1.25 g of product when the pump mechanism is fully depressed once. AndroGel is available in the following three package containers: 2 x 75 g pumps (each pump dispenses 60 metered 1.25 g doses)
Is AndroGel hard on the liver? ›
Serious side effects of AndroGel include liver problems and blood clots. Drug interactions of AndroGel include warfarin, which may increase the risk of bleeding. Testosterone may decrease blood glucose levels and less insulin may be required in diabetic patients.
Which is better AndroGel or testim? ›Androgel® showed the highest total weight loss (97%) whereas Testim® showed the least (84%). Testim was reported to have a stickiness issue, which could be related to other excipients such as PG, PEG, and glycerin. At the same time, these excipients are known as penetration enhancers for topical products.
When did AndroGel go generic? ›On October 15, 2018, Perrigo launched an AB-rated generic version of AbbVie's AndroGel (testosterone) 1.62% metered dose pump and unit-dose packets.
Is testosterone gel expensive? ›Brand names for testosterone include AndroGel, Testim, Fortesta, and Vogelxo. The cost for testosterone transdermal gel (20.25 mg/actuation (1.62%)) is around $112 for a supply of 75 grams, depending on the pharmacy you visit.
What is the downside of testosterone gel? ›Testosterone gel can cause high calcium in the blood, especially in people with cancer. High calcium levels can lead to symptoms such as muscle weakness, frequent urination, thirst, stomach pain, and blood in the urine.
How can I make AndroGel more effective? ›Sunscreen or Lotion and Testosterone Gel/Androgel Absorption
Applying sunscreen or lotion to your application site an hour after applying Testosterone gel may help increase Testosterone absorption.
- 1% (12.5mg/actuation) (Androgel)
- 1.62% (20.25mg/actuation) (Androgel)
- 10mg/actuation (1 pump actuation dispenses 0.5 g of gel) (Fortesta)
- 12.5mg/actuation (Vogelxo)
- 20.25mg/1.25g.
- 25mg/2.5g.
- 40.5mg/2.5g.
- 50mg/5g (Testim)
The USA FDA recommended starting dose for male hypogonadism is 50 to 400 mg IM every 2 to 4 weeks (41). The Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guidelines for testosterone therapy suggest an alternative of either 75 to 100 mg IM weekly or 150 to 200 mg IM every 2 weeks (3).
What is the warning on AndroGel? ›Possible increased risk of heart attack or stroke. In large doses, AndroGel may lower your sperm count. Swelling of your ankles, feet, or body, with or without heart failure. This may cause serious problems for people who have heart, kidney, or liver disease.
How much AndroGel to use to build muscle? ›The recommended starting dose for AndroGel 1.62% is 40.5 mg of testosterone. Apply to shoulders and upper arms only.
Does AndroGel affect blood pressure? ›
Sleep disorders: Treatment with testosterone may cause sleep apnea (interruption of breathing during sleep) and high blood pressure for some people, especially those with risk factors such as being overweight or having a chronic lung disease.