What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
-Breast cancer
-Diabetes
-Heart disease
-Heart failure
-Kidney disease
-Liver disease
-Lung or breathing disease (asthma, COPD)
-Polycythemia
-Prostate cancer or disease
-Sleep apnea
-An unusual or allergic reaction to testosterone, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
-If you or your partner are pregnant or trying to get pregnant
-Breast-feeding
What may interact with this medication?
-Medications for diabetes
-Medications that treat or prevent blood clots like warfarin
-Steroid medications like prednisone or cortisone
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What should I watch for while using this medication?
Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse. You may need blood work while you are taking this medication.
Heart attacks and strokes have been reported with the use of this medication. Get emergency help if you develop signs or symptoms of a heart attack or stroke. Talk to your care team about the risks and benefits of this medication.
This medication can transfer from your body to others. If a person or pet comes in contact with the medication, they may have a serious risk of side effects. If you cannot avoid skin-to-skin contact, cover the application site with clothing. If accidental contact happens, wash the skin of the person or pet right away with soap and water. A partner who is pregnant or trying to get pregnant should avoid contact with the medication and treated skin.
Talk to your care team if you wish to become pregnant or think you might be pregnant. This medication can cause serious birth defects if taken during pregnancy.
This medication may affect blood sugar. Ask your care team if changes in diet or medications are needed if you have diabetes.
This medication is banned from use in athletes by most athletic organizations.
What are the most serious risks of this medication?
The testosterone in these skin products can transfer to other people accidentally, and may cause problems in children, infants, and females. Follow all instructions for use carefully. In children, symptoms of exposure can include a change in pubic hair or the genitals, a change in sex drive, or aggressive behavior. In women, an increase in acne or facial hair may occur. If any of these symptoms are noted in another person, stop using the product and contact your health care provider.