Clinical Information
Use as directed by your healthcare provider. Apply to the skin at the same time each day unless told otherwise. If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not apply extra cream to make up for a missed dose. Your provider will decide how long you need to use this medication.
After you rub the cream onto your skin, testosterone passes through the outer skin layers and enters the bloodstream. It binds to androgen receptors in muscles, bones, and other tissues, helping the body build protein, increase red blood cells, and maintain healthy sexual function. Blood levels start to rise within a few hours, but you may not feel symptom relief for 2–4 weeks. Maximum benefits, such as stronger muscles and improved mood, often appear after 3–6 months of regular use. One daily application usually keeps hormone levels steady for about 24 hours.
Do not use if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding (may harm the baby). Do not use if you have prostate cancer, male breast cancer, or a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level that is high and not yet evaluated. Do not use if you have serious heart, liver, or kidney problems that are uncontrolled. Do not use if you have known or suspected allergy to testosterone or any ingredient in this cream. Not for use in women or in children under 18 years of age. Avoid if you have untreated sleep apnea or high red blood cell count unless cleared by your provider.
Testosterone may increase the effect of blood thinners such as warfarin, raising bleeding risk. It can lower blood sugar, so doses of insulin or diabetes pills may need adjustment. Using corticosteroids or medicines that cause fluid retention (like prednisone) together with testosterone can worsen swelling or blood pressure. Alcohol and opioids may add to testosterone’s effect on breathing in people with sleep apnea. Tell your provider about all prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, and herbal supplements, especially saw palmetto, DHEA, or anabolic steroids. Do not start or stop any medicine without medical advice.
Very common (more than 1 in 10): mild redness, itching, or dryness at the application site. Common (1–10 in 100): acne, oily skin, increased body or facial hair, headache, mood changes (irritability or euphoria), rise in red blood cell count or PSA levels. Uncommon (1–10 in 1,000): breast tenderness or enlargement, swelling of ankles, higher blood pressure, hair loss, sleep apnea getting worse. Rare but serious: liver problems (yellowing skin or eyes), blood clots in legs or lungs, heart attack, stroke. Most local skin reactions improve as your skin adapts; call your provider if side effects are severe, last more than two weeks, or you notice signs of serious problems.
Store at room temperature (68-77°F, 20-25°C) in the original, tightly closed container. Keep away from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight. Do not freeze or store in a bathroom. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Discard any cream that is outdated or unused after 6 months; take it to a pharmacy take-back program or mix with coffee grounds in a sealed plastic bag before placing in household trash.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:How do I apply testosterone cream correctly?
A:Rub the prescribed amount onto clean, dry skin such as the shoulders, upper arms, or inner thighs. Wash your hands well afterward and let the area dry before putting on clothes to avoid spreading the medicine to others.
Q:When will I start feeling better?
A:Blood testosterone levels rise within hours, but most men notice more energy, better mood, or increased sex drive after 2–4 weeks. Muscle strength and bone benefits may take 3–6 months of daily use.
Q:Can the cream transfer to my partner or children?
A:Yes. Always cover the application site with clothing once the cream dries. Wash the area before close skin-to-skin contact. Accidental transfer can cause side effects in others, especially women and children.
Q:What if the application site gets irritated?
A:Mild redness or itching is common and often improves. Try rotating sites and using a fragrance-free moisturizer once the cream is absorbed. If irritation becomes painful, spreads, or lasts more than a few days, contact your provider.
Q:Do I need regular lab tests while using this medicine?
A:Yes. Your provider will check testosterone levels, red blood cell count, liver function, and PSA every few months to be sure the dose is safe and effective. Keep all scheduled lab appointments.
Q:Can I drink alcohol while on testosterone therapy?
A:Light to moderate alcohol is usually acceptable, but heavy drinking can lower testosterone and raise blood pressure. Limit alcohol and talk with your provider about what amount is safe for you.
Q:Is this medication safe if I have diabetes?
A:Testosterone can lower blood sugar, so your diabetes medicines may need adjustment. Check your blood sugar more often when starting therapy and report any major changes to your healthcare team.
Q:How should I store and dispose of leftover cream?
A:Keep the cream at room temperature in its original container, away from children. For disposal, use a pharmacy take-back box when possible. If none is available, mix the leftover cream with coffee grounds or kitty litter in a sealed bag before putting it in the household trash.
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