How to Use Your Testosterone Replacement Therapy
1. Choose the Application Site
The gel should be applied to clean, dry skin on the lower abdomen, bikini line or behind the knee. Do not apply the gel to areas that will come into direct contact with other people (e.g., hands or chest) to avoid transferring the gel.
2. Prepare the Gel or Cream
Follow the specific instructions provided with your testosterone gel or cream. It usually comes in sachets, tubes, or pump dispensers.
Use only the prescribed amount, which is typically a pea-sized amount, or as directed by your healthcare provider.
3. Application
Clean Skin: Ensure the application site is clean and dry before applying the gel.
Apply the Gel: Squeeze the gel out of the sachet, tube, or pump. Rub it gently onto the skin and allow to dry before putting on clothes. Rotate application sites and do not apply the gel to the same area each day to avoid side effects. Wash Hands: After application, wash your hands thoroughly to avoid spreading the gel to other areas or people.
Dosage and Frequency
Check the dose listed on your prescription. This may vary depending on the type of testosterone you have been prescribed but it is normally a small amount. Consistency is important for maintaining stable hormone levels.
Typical amounts are listed below:
Testogel 1%: pea sized amount, daily, one sachet to last 8 days
Tostran 2%: One pump, three times a week
Androfeme 0.5mls, once daily
Effectiveness
Monitor how you feel and report any changes or side effects to your healthcare provider. It can take a few months to notice the full effects of testosterone therapy. You should have a review after 3 months and then annually but you can make an appointment any time in between if you are experiencing problems.
Side Effects
Please contact us if you experience of any side effects such as acne, excessive hair growth, male pattern hair loss or voice changes. We will need to check your bloods and can adjust your treatment plan if needed.
Safety and Precautions
Avoid direct contact with others, particularly children and pregnant women, in the area where the gel was applied until the gel has dried completely. Keep the gel in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Follow the storage instructions on the packaging.
Blood Tests & Review
You will need a blood test after being on testosterone for 3 months and then every 6 months. This is to ensure safe prescribing and avoid side effects.
(Sex Hormone Binding Globulin, SHBG, and Testosterone)
DO NOT use gel on the morning of your blood test appointment – this will result in an abnormally high result. Wait until after the blood test to apply to your gel that day.
Blood tests can be booked here
You will need a review appointment 3 months after commencing testosterone, followed by annual reviews.
Make sure you have your testosterone results 1-2 weeks before either your review or your repeat prescription request as these will be needed to issue a further prescription.
Follow up appointments can be scheduled here