Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Testosterone Topical Solution (TESTOSTERONE SOLUTION - TRANSDERMAL)

This medicine is used for the following purposes:

  • hormonal disorder
  • decreased appetite

Brand Name(s): Axiron

Generic Name: Testosterone

Instructions

DO NOT take this medicine by mouth.

Pump a dose onto the applicator. Use applicator to apply medicine to armpit. Keep applicator upright as much as possible while applying medicine.

Apply medicine only to clean, intact, dry skin under the arm pit. Wear clothing that covers the area. Wait for medicine to dry before putting on clothes. Do not use the medicine on any other area of the body.

Follow the instructions on the package to use this medicine correctly.

If your dose is more than one pump, allow the medicine to dry completely before applying more medicine.

Store in original bottle, tightly closed and upright.

Keep the medicine at room temperature. Avoid heat and direct light.

Please ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist how to discard unused medicines safely.

If you use antiperspirant or deodorant, use those at least 2 minutes before applying this medicine.

Use the medicine only on normal looking skin. Avoid areas of the skin that are red, have scrapes, or damaged.

Wash your hands before and after handling this medicine.

Do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth after handling the medicine.

If medicine gets in your eyes, rinse well with cool water.

Allow treated area to completely dry (about 10 minutes) before covering with clothing.

Do not shower, bathe, or swim for at least 2 hours after applying the medicine.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Do not freeze the medicine.

This medicine is flammable. Do not use it near heaters, open flame or while smoking. Do not crush, puncture, or burn container.

Cautions

This medicine may increase the risk of cancer. Ask your doctor about the benefits and risks.

This medicine is not safe for women or children. Wash the area where you applied this medication thoroughly before you have skin to skin contact with another person. Keep clothing that has touched the medicine away from women, children, and pets until they can be washed in warm water.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses at one time.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

If you have a painful erection or an erection for more than 4 hours, seek medical care right away.

Some patients have serious side effects from this medicine. Ask your pharmacist to show you the information from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and discuss it with you.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • acne
  • breast pain or swelling
  • burning or stinging
  • dizziness
  • hair loss
  • headaches
  • skin irritation where medicine is applied
  • vomiting

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • agitated feeling or trouble sleeping
  • anger or hostile feelings
  • decreased awareness or responsiveness
  • breathing interruption during sleep
  • chest pain
  • changes in memory, mood, or thinking
  • swelling of the legs, feet, and hands
  • sudden leg pain, swelling, warmth or redness
  • signs of liver damage (such as yellowing of eye or skin, dark urine, or unusual tiredness)
  • mood changes
  • problems with sexual functions or desire
  • shortness of breath
  • light colored stool
  • symptoms of stroke (such as one-sided weakness, slurred speech, confusion)
  • sweating
  • difficulty or discomfort urinating
  • blurring or changes of vision

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.