Androgel

Androgel contains a synthetic form of testosterone (a male sex hormone). It is used in the treatment of male hypogonadism (a condition in which the body does not produce enough testosterone).

Apply this medicine, onto clean, dry intact skin (preferably over abdomen or shoulders) once a day at the same time each day. Rub the gel in gently with one finger until dry, and then cover the area with loose clothing (e.g. T-shirt, shorts, pants). After finishing, wash your hands with soap and water. The dose of this medicine is decided by your doctor and make sure to follow it.

This medicine, may be transferred from you to the other person from close skin to skin contact. It might result in increase the testosterone levels in the other person. The prolonged or repeated exposure may cause few side effects (excess hair growth, deep voice, menstrual irregularities in women). To prevent this, cover the application site with the loose clothing once the gel has dried and always wash your hands with soap and water after applying it.

The most common side effect of using Androgel is skin reactions at the site of application such as burning or prickling sensation, dryness, rash, redness or itchiness. The other common side effects are increased body hair growth, increase in breast size, swelling of hands and feet and increase in blood pressure. If any of these side effect bother you, please consult with your doctor.

No, Androgel should not be used for increasing muscle mass and physical ability in healthy individuals, as this may cause harmful effects when used inappropriately. Also, in healthy individuals, if Androgel is given externally, it may cause hormonal imbalance.

Androgel should not be given to men with breast cancer, prostate cancer and kidney disease. It should be avoided in patients who had or presently have liver cancer and in those who have increased levels of calcium in blood. It should not be used by females, children below 18 years, and elderly patients more than 65 years of age.

Androgel may decrease blood glucose levels, and therefore, the dose of antidiabetic medicines should be reduced. Consult your doctor for advice.

You should get blood tests done more frequently for checking your bleeding time (time taken to stop bleeding) when you are taking warfarin along with Androgel, especially when starting and stopping Androgel. Talk to your doctor for advice.

While some of the effects of Androgel may start showing effects after 3 weeks, some may take longer. For example, effect on sexual interest appears after 3 weeks, while changes in erections/ejaculations may take up to 6 months.

The major health risks associated with the use of Androgel in men are heart attack, stroke, and prostatic carcinoma.

Androgel is an injectable preparation which contains a synthetic form of testosterone (a male sex hormone). It is used in the treatment of male hypogonadism (a condition in which the body does not produce enough testosterone).