It's used to treat men who have medical conditions, such as hypogonadism, that cause them to have low testosterone levels (low T).
Axiron works by replacing or supplementing testosterone. Low T can affect mood, muscle mass, strength, and sex drive.
According to the manufacturer, a clinical trial showed that testosterone levels in 7 out of 10 men who used Axiron returned to normal within two weeks of starting the drug.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) first approved testosterone therapy in 1953.
Axiron became available as a prescription medicine in the United States in 2010. Eli Lilly and Company markets the medicine.
Axiron Warnings
Axiron contains a black-box warning because its ingredients can transfer from your body to others.This can occur if other people come in contact with the area where Axiron is applied.
Women and children in particular should avoid contact with Axiron.
The medicine is absorbed through the skin and can cause male physical traits in those who come in contact with it.
Call a doctor right away if a child is exposed to Axiron and experiences:
- An enlarged penis or clitoris
- Early development of pubic hair
- Increased erections or sex drive
- Aggressive behavior
- Changes in body hair
- Acne
- Irregular menstrual periods
If you think another person will have direct skin-to-skin contact with your armpits, wash the area well with soap and water.
This medicine should only be applied to the armpit area. Never apply Axiron to the stomach, penis, scrotum, shoulders, or upper arms.
Older men who use Axiron may have a greater chance of developing an enlarged prostate or cancer. Talk to your doctor if you're older than 65 and are considering taking Axiron.
The drug shouldn't be given to anyone younger than 18.
Don't use this medicine if you have prostate cancer or male breast cancer.
Axiron may increase your risk of developing a dangerous blood clot, which can lead to a heart attack or stroke. Talk to your doctor about this risk.
Before using Axiron, tell your doctor if you have, or have ever had:
- Cancer
- An enlarged prostate or problems with urination
- Sleep apnea (a condition in which breathing stops during sleep)
- Heart disease or a heart attack
- A stroke
- Blood clots
- Diabetes
- Liver or kidney disease
Axiron is flammable. Don't smoke or go near an open flame until the medicine is completely dry on your body.
Testosterone medicines such as Axiron are considered controlled drugs. They should be kept in a secure location away from other people. Never share this drug with another person.
Pregnancy and Axiron
Pregnant women shouldn't use Axiron because it can cause birth defects.All women should avoid any contact with Axiron.
If contact does occur, wash the affected area immediately with soap and water.
Axiron can also pass into breast milk and harm a breastfeeding baby.
Axiron Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Axiron
Tell your doctor if any of the following side effects become severe or don't go away:- Itching, redness, burning, or irritation where the medicine is applied
- Flushing of the face
- Mood changes
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Mild muscle pain
- Unusual dreams
- Frequent or prolonged erections
- Acne
Serious Side Effects of Axiron
Tell your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following serious side effects:- Painful or difficult urination
- Increased urination or loss of bladder control
- Painful erections
- Breast swelling or pain
- Shortness of breath during sleep
- Rapid weight gain or swelling
- Chest pain
- Pain that spreads to your shoulder or jaw
- Upper stomach pain
- Severe tiredness
- Dark-colored urine
- Clay-colored stools
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Wheezing
- Sudden cough
- Rapid breathing
- Coughing up blood
- Pain, swelling, warmth, or redness in the legs
- High blood pressure
- Signs of an allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) such as hives, rash, itching, chest tightness, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
Axiron Interactions
- A blood thinner such as Coumadin (warfarin)
- A steroid such as Medrol (methylprednisolone), Sterapred (prednisone), or others
- Insulin
Axiron Dosage
Use this medicine exactly as your doctor prescribes. Don't apply more or less Axiron than is recommended.
Before using Axiron, take a bath or shower so your armpit area is clean. Don't apply the medicine to broken skin.
Apply Axiron only to your armpits. Never use this medicine on other areas of your body.
Use the special applicator to apply the medicine. Don't use your fingers or hands.
After the solution has dried, cover the application area with clothing and keep it covered until you've washed the area well.
If you're using an antiperspirant or deodorant, apply it at least two minutes before applying Axiron.
Try to use this medicine around the same time each morning.
Wash your hands immediately with soap and water after applying Axiron. Also, rinse and dry the applicator after each use.
Avoid swimming or bathing for at least two hours after applying the medicine.
Axiron Overdose
If you suspect an overdose, contact a poison control center or emergency room immediately.You can get in touch with a poison control center at 800-222-1222.
Missed Dose of Axiron
If you miss a dose of Axiron, apply it as soon as you remember.But skip the missed dose if it's almost time for your next scheduled dose.
Don't use extra Axiron to make up for a missed dose.
