GENERIC NAME: TESTOSTERONE - TRANSDERMAL (tess-TOSS-ter-own)
BRAND NAME(S): Androderm, Testoderm TTS
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: These medicated patches contain testosterone. Testosterone is a male sex hormone responsible for growth and development of male sex organs and male sex characteristics such as chest hair, facial hair, pubic hair, voice changes and muscle growth. The patches are used to treat testosterone deficiency.
HOW TO USE: Apply to dry, clean area of skin. The selected patch site must not be oily or irritated. Do not place on scrotum or on bony areas such as shoulders or hips. Different brands can be applied to different areas of your body. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for exact instructions. To use the patch, remove the protective backing to expose the adhesive surface. Place patch with the adhesive side on clean, dry skin. The patch is worn for 24 hours then replaced with a new patch. Be sure to wait 7 days before applying a patch to the same site. To discard a patch, remove it and fold it so the adhesive side is on the outside. Place the folded patch in the pouch from which the new patch is taken and discard it in the trash.
SIDE EFFECTS: Itching or irritation or discomfort at site of application may occur the first few days as your body adjusts to the patch. Other side effects reported include acne, breast tenderness, swelling of the breasts, headache, anxiety or a change in sex drive. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: painful or frequent urination, frequent or persistent erections, nausea, vomiting, swelling of the feet or ankles, mental confusion, depression, breathing trouble. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Before using this drug, notify your doctor of any disease you have, especially cancer of the prostate or breast (males), liver, heart, kidney disease, allergy, enlarged prostate. High dosage, long-term use of androgens has been related to liver cancer. Discuss your medicine with your doctor/pharmacist. This drug must not be used during pregnancy. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. Breast feeding should be avoided while using this medicine. Females should be monitored for signs of virilization, such as deepening of the voice, facial hair, acne, menstrual irregularity, or clitoral enlargement. Consult your doctor promptly if any of these symptoms occur. Use in children should be undertaken with extreme caution due to the possibility this drug may have undesirable effects related to the growth of the child. Geriatric men are at higher risk for developing enlarged prostates or prostate cancer when using this medication.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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