What should you know about over the counter testosterone gel?

Testosterone is a hormone, and gel applied to skin can be absorbed into the body. A product sold without a prescription may not have the same formulation, testing or instructions as a treatment selected by a clinician. Too much exposure can contribute to acne, increased facial or body hair, scalp hair thinning, voice changes or menstrual changes. Some effects may not fully reverse after stopping.

The gel can also transfer to another person through skin contact, especially before the application site is washed or covered. A clinician first considers symptoms, menstrual and reproductive history, other medicines, and whether a different cause needs attention.

Do not start, increase or combine testosterone products based only on advertising or another person’s experience. Show the packaging and ingredient list to a doctor or pharmacist before use. If testosterone therapy is appropriate, the clinician can choose a suitable preparation, explain where and how to apply it, and arrange monitoring for unwanted changes.

Keep the container away from children and pets. Wash hands after applying gel, let the area dry, cover it as instructed, and avoid skin-to-skin contact with others until the product is safe to touch. If you have already used it, record the product name, amount and timing and mention any new symptoms.

Arrange medical advice if you develop a deeper voice, new coarse hair growth, severe acne, unexpected bleeding, marked mood changes or scalp hair loss after using testosterone gel. Seek urgent help for breathing difficulty, facial swelling, fainting or a rapidly spreading rash, which can signal a serious reaction.

Ask what symptom the treatment is intended to address, whether testosterone is appropriate for you, how exposure will be monitored, and what signs mean you should stop and seek advice. Ask how to prevent transfer to a partner, child or pet.