What is Tostran?
Tostran® is a 2% testosterone gel in a canister dispenser for transdermal hormone replacement therapy in adult men with testosterone deficiency (hypogonadism). Each pump actuation delivers 10 mg of testosterone.
The gel is applied once daily to the abdomen or to both inner thighs. The metered-dose dispenser allows simple and flexible dosing. Tostran® offers a good alternative to Testogel®, especially for patients who prefer application to the abdomen.
Active Ingredients & Mechanism of Action
Active ingredient: Testosteron
Mechanism of action:
- Transdermal absorption through the skin
- Restoration of normal testosterone levels
- Testosterone acts on androgen receptors in numerous tissues
Action profile:
- Even release of testosterone over 24 hours
- Stable blood levels after a few days of regular use
- Physiological daily profile
Clinical effects: Improvement in libido, energy, mood, muscle mass and bone density over weeks to months.
Who is it suitable for?
Tostran® is suitable for:
- Adult men with testosterone deficiency confirmed clinically and by laboratory tests
- Men who prefer application to the abdominal area
Not suitable:
- Women and children
- Prostate cancer or breast cancer in men
- Severe heart, liver or kidney failure
- Polycythemia
- Actively trying to have children
Available Dosages
Dosage:
- 1 pump actuation = 10 mg testosterone
- Starting dose: 60 mg (6 actuations) daily, applied to the abdomen or half to each inner thigh
- Adjustment: depending on blood levels, no more than 80 mg (8 actuations) daily
Monitoring:
- Measure testosterone blood levels after 1–2 weeks
- Monitor hematocrit, PSA and liver function tests regularly
- Adjust the dose based on clinical findings and lab results
Dosage form and pack sizes
The medicines catalogue lists one pack variant: one strength in one pack size.
- Dosage form
- Gel
- Strengths
- 2%
- Pack sizes
- 60 g
| Strength | Pack | PZN | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2% | 60 g | 00413156 | 20 days |
Packs listed in the German medicines catalogue. Which of them are currently available and what they cost is shown in the price overview.
The Pharmazentralnummer (PZN) is the nationwide unique identifier of a pack in Germany.
Duration is the catalogue value for the usual dosage. How long a pack actually lasts depends on the dose your doctor prescribes.
How to Take
Application:
- Apply once daily in the morning to clean, dry skin on the abdomen or on both inner thighs
- Spread the gel thinly and let it dry
- Do not apply to the genitals or chest
- Wash your hands thoroughly after application
Important information:
- Avoid skin contact with women and children at the application site
- Cover the area with clothing or wash it before contact
- Apply at least 2 hours before showering/bathing
- Use regularly at the same time of day
Contraindications
Tostran® must not be used in cases of:
- Prostate cancer or suspected prostate cancer
- Breast cancer in men
- Hypersensitivity to testosterone
- Severe heart failure
- Severe liver failure
- Polycythemia
Use with caution in cases of:
- Sleep apnea
- Enlarged prostate (BPH)
- Epilepsy, migraine
- Thrombophilia
- High blood pressure
Possible Side Effects
Common (1–10%):
- Skin irritation at the application site
- Increased red blood cell count / hematocrit
- Increase in PSA
- Acne
Uncommon (0.1–1%):
- Irritability, mood swings
- Gynecomastia
- Headache
- Weight gain
Rare:
- Polycythemia with risk of thrombosis
- Elevated liver function tests
- Worsening of sleep apnea
Frequently Asked Questions
Tostran® contains 2% testosterone (vs. 1% in Testogel® sachets) and is applied to the abdomen or to both inner thighs. One pump actuation delivers only 10 mg, which allows very fine dose adjustment.
Tostran® can be applied to the abdomen or to both inner thighs. Both sites result in comparable testosterone levels in the blood. Applying it to other areas may change absorption. Stick to the recommended application sites for reliable results.
Your testosterone level is checked through regular blood tests. The target value is in the middle of the normal range. Your symptoms (energy, libido, mood) are also taken into account in the assessment.
Similar Medications
Is Tostran 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.