What is Testogel?
Testogel® is a transparent gel for external use that contains the active ingredient testosterone. It is used in adult men for hormone replacement therapy if the body does not produce enough testosterone (male hypogonadism).
Testosterone deficiency can be expressed by fatigue, reduced libido, erectile disorders, mood swings, muscle weakness and osteoporosis. Testogel® is applied to the skin once a day and gives testosterone evenly over the day. It is available as Testogel® (50 mg bag) and as Testogel® dosing gel (pump dispenser with 16.2 mg per stroke).
Active Ingredients & Mechanism of Action
Active ingredient: Testosteron
Active mechanism:
- Testosterone is absorbed via the skin (transdermal)
- Get into the bloodstream and restores physiological testosterone levels
- Works on androgen receptors in numerous tissues
Effects of testosterone:
- Increase libido and sexual function
- Build and maintain muscle mass
- Strengthening bone density
- Improving mood and energy
- Promoting the formation of red blood cells
- influencing the fat and sugar metabolism
Pharmacokinetics: After application to the skin, testosterone is continuously absorbed. Stable blood levels are achieved after 2–3 days of regular use. The full clinical effect occurs after a few weeks.
Who is it suitable for?
Testogel® is suitable for:
- Adult men with proven testosterone deficiency (hypogonadism)
- Confirmed by clinical symptoms AND low testosterone levels in the blood (at least two measurements in the morning)
Not suitable:
- Women (Testogel® is only allowed for men)
- prostate cancer or suspicion
- Breast cancer
- Heavy liver, heart or kidney failure
- Men with child's request (Testosterone inhibits spermatogenesis)
- Polycythemia (hematocrit > 54 %)
Available Dosages
Testogel® bag:
- start dose: 50 mg (1 bag) daily
- Adjustment after blood level control: 25–100 mg daily
Testogel® dosing gel (pump dispenser):
- 1 pump stroke = 20.25 mg testosterone
- start dose: 2 strokes (40.5 mg) daily
- Adjustment: 1–4 strokes daily depending on blood values
Control:
- Control testosterone levels after 2–4 weeks
- Target range: Testosterone in the middle standard range (approx. 15–25 nmol/L)
- monitor haematocrit and PSA regularly
How to Take
Application:
- Apply once a day to clean, dry, undamaged skin
- Preferred positions: upper arms, shoulders or belly
- Spread gel evenly thin
- Allow to dry at least 3-5 minutes before dressing
- Wash hands thoroughly after application
Important notes:
- Do NOT apply to genital area (strong irritation possible)
- Avoid skin contact with partner or children (testosterone transfer!)
- Covered place with clothing or wash before contact
- Do not apply to irritated or inflamed skin
- Always apply at the same time
Contraindications
**Testogel® must not be used at:* *
- prostate cancer or suspicion
- Breast cancer
- Known hypersensitivity to testosterone
- Heavy heart failure (NYHA IV)
- Heavy liver failure
- Polycythemia (hematocrit > 54 %)
Preview at:
- Sleep apnea syndrome
- Good prostate enlargement (BPH)
- Epilepsy
- Migraine
- High blood pressure
- Coagulation disorders
- Diabetes (blood sugar monitoring recommended)
Children's request: Exogenous testosterone suppresses the body's sperm production and acts as a contraceptive to the man. Other options (e.g. hCG, Clomifen off-label) are to be discussed at child request.
Possible Side Effects
Family (1–10 %):
- Skin reactions at the job site (killing, itching)
- Acne
- Increased hematocrit/erythrocytosis
- Increased PSA value
- Headaches
** Occasionally (0.1-1 %):* *
- Mood fluctuations, irritability
- Gynecomastia (breast enlargement)
- Weight gain
- hair loss (androgent)
- High blood pressure
- Prostate complaints
Selten, but seriously:
- Polycythemia (increased red blood cells → risk of thrombosis)
- Liver malfunction
- deterioration of sleep apnea
Monitoring: Regular controls of hematocrit, PSA, liver values and lipid profile are essential.
Interactions
Reactions:
- Anticoagulants (Warfarin, Phenprocoumon) → enhanced blood coagulation inhibition, INR control necessary
- Insuline and oral antidiabetics → increased blood sugar reduction possible
- Corticosteroids → increased edema disorder
Enzym inductors:
- Barbiturate, Phenytoin, Rifampicin → accelerated testosterone degradation possible
Important: Simultaneous use with other androgenic substances should be avoided.
Frequently Asked Questions
Similar Medications
Is Testogel right for you?
A licensed doctor will review your information and issue a prescription if suitable. Discreet and secure.
Important Notice
This information does not replace medical advice. If you have questions about your health or the suitability of this medication, please consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Important Safety Information
This service operates under German pharmaceutical law (HWG). For risks and side effects, read the package leaflet and consult your doctor or pharmacist. All medications are dispensed from a licensed pharmacy in Germany.