It's used to treat men who have low levels of the hormone testosterone due to medical conditions such as hypogonadism.
Androgel works by restoring normal levels of the hormone testosterone in the body.
Low testosterone levels (low T) can affect muscle mass, strength, sex drive, and mood.
Androgel is used on the upper arms, shoulders, or stomach area. (Another topical testosterone medicine, Axiron, is applied to the armpit area.)
Some men with sensitive skin may tolerate Androgel better because they can rotate the area of application.
Androgel was the first testosterone gel product. It became available in the United States as a prescription medicine in 2000.
According to the manufacturer, a clinical study found that testosterone levels of 82 percent of men who used Androgel for 16 weeks returned to normal, compared with 37 percent of men who used a placebo.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) first approved testosterone treatment in 1953. Androgel is marketed by AbbVie Inc.
Androgel Warnings
Androgel includes a black-box warning because its ingredients can transfer to other people.This can happen if others come in contact with the application area. Women and children, in particular, should avoid contact with Androgel.
The medicine is absorbed through the skin and can cause male physical traits in those who are exposed to it.
Call a doctor right away if a child is exposed to Androgel and experiences:
- An enlarged penis or clitoris
- Early development of pubic hair
- Increased erections or sex drive
- Aggressive behavior
- Male pattern baldness
- Changes in body hair
- Irregular menstrual periods
- Acne
Wash the application site well if you think another person will have direct skin-to-skin contact with that area.
Don't use Androgel if you have male breast cancer or prostate cancer.
Older men who use this medicine may have a greater chance of developing an enlarged prostate or cancer. Talk to your doctor if this is a concern.
This drug shouldn't be given to anyone younger than 18.
Androgel 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.
Keep all appointments with your healthcare provider and laboratory when using Androgel. Your doctor will want to perform regular blood tests to monitor your body's response to the drug.
Testosterone medicines such as Androgel are considered controlled drugs.
They should be kept in a secure location away from other people. Never share this drug with another person.
Before using Androgel, tell your doctor if you have, or have ever had:
- Cancer
- An enlarged prostate or problems with urination
- Diabetes
- Heart disease or a heart attack
- A stroke
- Blood clots
- Kidney or liver disease
- Sleep apnea (a condition in which breathing stops during sleep)
Pregnancy and Androgel
Androgel can cause birth defects. Pregnant women shouldn't use this medicine and all women should avoid any contact with Androgel.If contact does occur, wash the affected area immediately with soap and water.
Androgel can also pass into breast milk and harm a breastfeeding baby.
Androgel Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Androgel
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
- Headache
- Mood changes
- Dizziness
- Flushing of the face
- Mild muscle pain
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Unusual dreams
- Frequent or prolonged erections
- Acne
Serious Side Effects of Androgel
Tell your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following serious side effects:- Increased urination or loss of bladder control
- Painful or difficult urination
- Breast swelling or pain
- Painful erections
- Rapid weight gain or swelling
- Shortness of breath during sleep
- 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)
- Sudden cough
- Wheezing
- Rapid breathing
- Coughing up blood
- Pain, swelling, warmth, or redness in the legs
- High blood pressure
- Signs of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) such as hives, rash, itching, chest tightness, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
Androgel Interactions
- A blood thinner such as Coumadin (warfarin)
- A steroid such as Medrol (methylprednisolone), Sterapred (prednisone), or others
- Insulin
Androgel Dosage
Androgel comes as a single dose-metered pump dispenser, or as packets of gel (Androgel 1.62%). It also comes as packets of gel only (Androgel 1%).Androgel 1.62% can be used on the shoulders and upper arms. Androgel 1% can be used on the shoulders, upper arms, and/or stomach area.
Follow your doctor's instructions carefully when applying this medicine. Don't use more or less Androgel than is recommended.
Be sure to shower or bathe before using Androgel.
The medicine can be applied using the palm of your hand.
Massage Androgel into your skin. Place the gel on areas that will be covered with a shirt.
Allow the medicine to dry for at least five minutes before getting dressed. Then cover the treated area with clothing to prevent other people from coming into contact with Androgel.
Keep the area covered until you take a shower or wash it well.
Wash your hands immediately with soap and water after applying Androgel.
Avoid bathing or swimming for at least two hours after applying Androgel.
If you expect to have skin-to-skin contact with someone else, be sure to wash the application area well with soap and water.
Never apply Androgel to your genitals, chest, or back.
Androgel 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 Androgel
If you miss a dose of Androgel, apply it as soon as you remember.But skip the missed dose if it's almost time for your next application.
Don't use extra Androgel to make up for a missed dose.
