AndroGel

Generic name: Testosterone gel

What is AndroGel?

AndroGel is a clear, colorless gel medicine used because your body does not produce enough testosterone, a condition called hypogonadism.

What is the most important information I should know about AndroGel?

Patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) are at an increased risk for worsening signs and symptoms of BPH when being treated with AndroGel. AndroGel may also increase the risk of prostate cancer in men.

Patients should also wash their hands thoroughly after each application and cover the application site with clothing after it dries to prevent the medicine from coming in contact with others, especially women and children.

AndroGel may cause severe liver problems.

AndroGel may cause your body to retain more sodium and water than is needed, which can have serious consequences if you have heart, kidney, or liver disease.

AndroGel may worsen sleep apnea, a disorder in which your breathing pauses during sleep, especially if you have risk factors (are overweight or have chronic lung disease).

This drug should not be used by women.

This medication is inflammable and you should keep the application site away from open flames until it dries.

Who should not take AndroGel?

Women should not take AndroGel.

Do not use AndroGel if have had breast or prostate cancer.

Do not use AndroGel if you are allergic to any of its ingredients, including alcohol and soy products.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of AndroGel?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with AndroGel. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have a history of breast or prostate cancer.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: The recommended starting dose of AndroGel is 5 grams (g), which delivers 5 milligrams (mg) of testosterone, applied once daily to clean, dry, intact skin of the shoulders and upper arms and/or abdomen.

How should I take AndroGel?

Apply AndroGel once a day at the same time each day, preferably in the morning (after a shower or bath),.

Apply the gel to clean, dry, unbroken skin on your shoulders, upper arms or abdomen.

Do not apply AndroGel to the genitals or to skin with open wounds or irritation.

Wash your hands with soap and water immediately after you apply AndroGel; allow a few minutes for the medication to dry before putting your clothes on.

Wait 5-6 hours after applying before showering or swimming.

What should I avoid while taking AndroGel?

Avoid touching other people while you have AndroGel on your hands.

Avoid showering or swimming for 5-6 hours after application.

Avoid any open flames or smoking until the medication dries.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with AndroGel?

If AndroGel is used with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining AndroGel with corticosteroids, insulin, oxyphenbutazone, propanolol, or anticoagulants (blood thinners).

What are the possible side effects of AndroGel?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: acne, breast development/discomfort, emotional problems such as depression, sleep problems, local skin irritation, prostate enlargement, swelling

Talk to your doctor if you develop: breathing problems, difficulty urinating, nausea, prolonged or frequent erections, vomiting, yellowing of the skin or eyes

What should I do if I miss a dose of AndroGel?

If your next dose is less than 12 hours away, wait and take it then. Do not take the skipped dose. If it is more than 12 hours until your next dose, take the dose you missed. Resume your normal dosing the next day. If you miss a dose, do not double your next dose.

How should I store AndroGel?

Store at room temperature.