Testosterone Patches

What are Testosterone Patches?

These patches are prescribed for men with low levels, or the absence of, the male hormone testosterone. Lack of testosterone can lead to declining interest in sex, impotence, fatigue, depression, and loss of masculine characteristics.

What is the most important information I should know about Testosterone Patches?

If you are over 55 years of age and have prostate problems, make sure your doctor is aware of them. Supplementary testosterone may increase the risk of prostate cancer.

Who should not take Testosterone Patches?

Do not use the patch if you have breast cancer or prostate cancer or if you are sensitive to any component of the drug. The patches are not for use by women.

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

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with testosterone patches. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have prostate cancer or suspected prostate cancer, heart disease, or kidney or liver disease.

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: Androderm. The usual starting dose is one 5-mg patch or two 2.5-mg patches per day. Depending on results, your doctor may increase the dosage to 1 large and 1 small patch (or 3 small patches) daily, or reduce it to 1 small patch per day.

Testoderm

The usual dose is 1 patch per day. The larger patch delivers 6 milligrams (mg) of testosterone. The smaller patch delivers 4 mg.

How should I take Testosterone Patches?

Androderm

Apply Androderm at the same time every evening and replace the old one with a new one every 24 hours.

Apply Androderm patches to clean and dry areas. Avoid areas of the skin that are oily, prone to perspiration, or are covered with hair. Only apply the patch to the skin of the back, abdomen, upper arms, or thigh. Do NOT apply the patch to the scrotum. Avoid bony areas such as the shoulders and hips as well as areas that get the greatest pressure while you are sleeping or sitting. You should change the application site each day of the week, waiting 7 days before reusing a site.

Apply the patch(es) by pressing it firmly in place immediately after you take it out of the storage pouch. Leave the patch(es) in place for a full 24 hours.

If an Androderm patch falls off, try to reapply it. If it cannot be reapplied and it is before noon, apply a new patch. If it is after noon, wait until the evening and apply a new patch at the regularly scheduled time.

Testoderm

Testoderm patches are applied daily to the skin of the scrotum. For best results, the scrotal skin should be shaved, clean, and dry. Dry-shave the skin and avoid wet-shaving or chemical hair-removal products. The patch should be worn for 22-24 hours per day. Apply a new patch every 24 hours. Remove the patch during bathing, showering, or swimming.

Testoderm TTS patches should be applied at the same time every day, either during the day or night. Testoderm TTS patches should NOT be applied to the scrotum. Testoderm TTS patches can be applied to the arms, back, or upper buttocks. Avoid bony areas such as the shoulders and hips as well as areas that get the greatest pressure while you are sleeping or sitting. Leave the patch in place for 24 hours. If a Testoderm TTS patch falls off, try to reapply it. If it comes off after being worn for more than 12 hours and it cannot be reapplied, wait until the next scheduled application time to apply a new system.

What should I avoid while taking Testosterone Patches?

Avoid undergoing an MRI while wearing a testosterone patch. Burns have been reported at the patch site.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Testosterone Patches?

If the patch is taken 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 the patch with the following:

Blood-thinners such as warfarin

Insulin

Oxyphenbutazone

What are the possible side effects of Testosterone Patches?

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: Blistering, burning, hardening of the skin, itching, and redness at the application site

In younger men being treated for delayed sexual development, supplementary testosterone can cause breast enlargement. In older men, it can increase the risk of prostate cancer. Among men with heart, kidney, or livery disease, it can lead to fluid retention and congestive heart failure.

Tell your doctor if you experience nausea, vomiting, swelling of the ankles, changes in skin color, too frequent or prolonged erections, breathing problems, or yellowing of the skin or eyes.

Some testosterone may be left on the skin after a patch is removed. Particularly with Testoderm, there is a possibility that your partner could absorb some of the hormone during sex and suffer unwanted changes. If she experiences increased hair growth or an aggravation of acne, tell your doctor.

Can I receive Testosterone Patches if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Testosterone is intended for use only by males and must not be used by women. If used during pregnancy, it can cause serious harm to the developing baby.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Testosterone Patches?

Apply it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next application, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not apply 2 patches at the same time unless instructed by your doctor.

How should I store Testosterone Patches?

Store at room temperature.