Testosterone 30mg/act Solution

Manufacturer LUPIN PHARMACEUTICALS Active Ingredient Testosterone Topical Solution(tes TOS ter one) Pronunciation tes TOS ter one
WARNING: Wash the site where the drug was used before it touches anyone else's skin.Do not let this drug or the treated area touch anyone else's skin. They could have side effects from touching this drug. Cover the treated area with clothes.If a female or a child touches the gel, they will need to wash their skin with soap and water. @ COMMON USES: It is used to treat low testosterone levels.
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Drug Class
Androgen
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Pharmacologic Class
Androgen receptor agonist
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Pregnancy Category
Category X
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FDA Approved
Nov 2010
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DEA Schedule
Schedule III

Overview

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What is this medicine?

Testosterone solution is a medication applied to the skin to replace the natural male hormone, testosterone, when the body doesn't make enough. It helps improve symptoms like low energy, low sex drive, and muscle weakness.
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How to Use This Medicine

Proper Use of This Medication

To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. Use this medication only on your skin, as directed. It is essential to wash your hands before and after applying the medication.

Apply the medication at the same time every day. Be aware that different products may have varying strengths, so carefully read and follow the label instructions. Avoid getting the medication on other parts of your body or on other people, and do not apply it to the genitals. Take care to keep the medication out of your eyes.

Some products come in pump form, while others come in packets. If you are using a pump, you will need to prime it before the first use, following the instructions in the package insert. After applying the medication, wait for the recommended amount of time before bathing, showering, or swimming. Refer to the package insert for specific guidance.

Allow the medication to dry completely before covering the treated area with clothing. Until the medication is dry, avoid exposure to fire, flames, or smoking. Apply the medication to clean, dry, healthy skin in the armpit using the provided applicator. Do not use your fingers or hand to rub the medication into the skin. Alternate armpits with each dose, and allow the skin to dry completely between applications.

If you use an antiperspirant or deodorant, apply it at least 2 minutes before using this medication.

Storage and Disposal

Store this medication at room temperature, avoiding freezing. Keep it in a dry place, away from bathrooms, and protect it from heat or open flames.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not use two doses at the same time or take extra doses.
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Lifestyle & Tips

  • Apply the solution to clean, dry, intact skin of the armpit (axilla) once daily, preferably in the morning.
  • Alternate the armpit used each day.
  • Allow the solution to dry completely (several minutes) before dressing.
  • Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water immediately after applying the solution.
  • Cover the application site with clothing after the solution has dried to prevent transfer to others.
  • Avoid swimming, showering, or washing the application site for at least 2 hours after application.
  • Avoid direct skin-to-skin contact with women or children at the application site to prevent accidental transfer.
  • Store at room temperature, away from heat and direct light.

Dosing & Administration

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Adult Dosing

Standard Dose: Initial dose: 30 mg (one actuation) applied once daily to the axilla. May be titrated up to 90 mg (three actuations) daily.
Dose Range: 30 - 90 mg

Condition-Specific Dosing:

hypogonadism: Apply to clean, dry, intact skin of the axilla. Alternate axillae daily. Allow to dry completely before dressing. Do not apply to other body parts.
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Pediatric Dosing

Neonatal: Not established
Infant: Not established
Child: Not established
Adolescent: Not established (contraindicated for male hypogonadism in children due to potential for accelerated bone maturation and premature epiphyseal closure)
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Dose Adjustments

Renal Impairment:

Mild: No specific dose adjustment recommended, use with caution.
Moderate: No specific dose adjustment recommended, use with caution.
Severe: No specific dose adjustment recommended, use with caution. Monitor for fluid retention.
Dialysis: Considerations: Use with caution, monitor for fluid retention and adverse effects.

Hepatic Impairment:

Mild: No specific dose adjustment recommended, use with caution.
Moderate: No specific dose adjustment recommended, use with caution. Monitor for fluid retention and adverse effects.
Severe: Use with caution; testosterone is metabolized by the liver. Monitor for fluid retention and adverse effects. Consider lower starting dose or alternative therapy.

Pharmacology

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Mechanism of Action

Endogenous androgens, including testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT), are responsible for the normal growth and development of the male sex organs and for maintenance of secondary sex characteristics. Testosterone acts by binding to androgen receptors in target tissues, forming a hormone-receptor complex that translocates to the nucleus, where it stimulates gene transcription and protein synthesis.
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Pharmacokinetics

Absorption:

Bioavailability: Approximately 9-14% (for Axiron, varies by formulation and application site)
Tmax: Approximately 2-4 hours after application
FoodEffect: Not applicable for topical administration; however, skin condition (e.g., hydration, integrity) can affect absorption.

Distribution:

Vd: Approximately 1 L/kg (for endogenous testosterone)
ProteinBinding: Approximately 98% (primarily to sex hormone-binding globulin [SHBG] and albumin)
CnssPenetration: Yes, testosterone can cross the blood-brain barrier, but topical application is primarily for systemic effects.

Elimination:

HalfLife: Approximately 10-100 minutes (for endogenous testosterone; topical formulations provide sustained release over 24 hours)
Clearance: Approximately 1000 mL/min (for endogenous testosterone)
ExcretionRoute: Approximately 90% renal (as conjugates of testosterone and its metabolites), 6% fecal (unconjugated metabolites)
Unchanged: Less than 6% of a testosterone dose is excreted unchanged in the urine.
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Pharmacodynamics

OnsetOfAction: Gradual, clinical effects typically observed within weeks to months (e.g., libido, mood, energy). Serum testosterone levels reach steady state within 7-14 days.
PeakEffect: Peak therapeutic effects on symptoms like libido and energy may take 3-6 months. Effects on bone density may take longer.
DurationOfAction: Approximately 24 hours (with daily topical application)
Confidence: Medium

Safety & Warnings

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BLACK BOX WARNING

WARNING: SECONDARY EXPOSURE TO TESTOSTERONE and VENOUS THROMBOEMBOLISM (VTE).

SECONDARY EXPOSURE TO TESTOSTERONE:
Cases of secondary exposure to testosterone resulting in virilization of children and women have been reported. Testosterone solution can transfer from the treated patient to others upon direct contact. Patients should be advised to strictly adhere to the instructions for use, including proper application, hand washing, and covering the application site.

VENOUS THROMBOEMBOLISM (VTE):
Cases of serious venous thromboembolism, including deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), have been reported in patients using testosterone products. Evaluate patients with symptoms of VTE and discontinue testosterone therapy in patients with a confirmed VTE.
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Side Effects

Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Help Right Away

Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical attention:

Signs of an allergic reaction: rash, hives, itching, red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin (with or without fever), wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, difficulty breathing, swallowing, or talking, unusual hoarseness, or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of high blood pressure: severe headache or dizziness, fainting, or changes in vision
Prolonged or frequent erections (priapism)
Urination problems: difficulty starting to urinate, painful urination, weak urine flow, or frequent urination
Loss of bladder control
New or worsening behavioral or mood changes, such as depression or suicidal thoughts
Enlarged breasts or breast pain
Shortness of breath, sudden weight gain, or swelling in the arms or legs
Nausea or vomiting
Sleep apnea (trouble breathing while sleeping)
Excessive daytime sleepiness
Weakness on one side of the body, difficulty speaking or thinking, balance problems, drooping on one side of the face, or blurred vision
Skin color changes
Changes in testicle size or shape
Signs of a blood clot: chest pain or pressure, coughing up blood, shortness of breath, swelling, warmth, numbness, color changes, or pain in a leg or arm, or difficulty speaking or swallowing
Liver problems: dark urine, fatigue, decreased appetite, stomach pain or upset, light-colored stools, vomiting, or yellow skin or eyes (jaundice)

Other Possible Side Effects

Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. While many people may not experience any side effects or only mild ones, it's essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor. If you experience any of the following side effects or any other unusual symptoms, contact your doctor for advice:

Headache
Acne
Diarrhea
Mood swings
Fatigue or weakness
Sleep disturbances
* Irritation at the site of application

Reporting Side Effects

This list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other side effects. If you have questions or concerns, contact your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
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Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:

  • Signs of virilization in women or children (e.g., new or increased body hair, deepening voice, acne, changes in menstrual periods, enlarged clitoris)
  • Swelling in ankles, feet, or hands (fluid retention)
  • Difficulty urinating, increased urination frequency, or weak urine stream (prostate issues)
  • Chest pain, shortness of breath, or leg pain/swelling (signs of blood clot)
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, or severe stomach pain (liver problems)
  • Increased aggression, irritability, or mood swings
  • Difficulty sleeping or worsening of sleep apnea
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Before Using This Medicine

Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor

It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:

Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances. Be sure to describe the allergic reaction you experienced.
If you are a male with a history of breast or prostate cancer.
If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, such as heart disease, kidney disease, or liver disease.

Additionally, please note the following:

This medication is not approved for use in females. If you are female, you should not take this medication, as it may harm an unborn baby if taken during pregnancy. If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, discuss this with your doctor.
This medication is not suitable for children. Do not give this medication to a child.

To ensure safe use, it is crucial to:

Inform your doctor and pharmacist about all medications you are taking, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, natural products, and vitamins.
Discuss all your health problems with your doctor to verify that it is safe to take this medication in conjunction with your other medications and health conditions.
Never start, stop, or change the dosage of any medication without consulting your doctor first.
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Precautions & Cautions

It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication.

If you have diabetes, you will need to closely monitor your blood sugar levels.

There may be an increased risk of developing prostate cancer associated with this medication. Discuss this with your doctor.

Men with an enlarged prostate should be aware that their symptoms may worsen while using this drug. If this occurs, contact your doctor promptly.

Individuals with sleep apnea should consult their doctor, as this condition may deteriorate in some people taking testosterone.

High blood pressure is a potential side effect of this medication. Follow your doctor's instructions for regular blood pressure checks. Elevated blood pressure can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, or death from heart disease. If you have pre-existing high blood pressure or heart disease, discuss this with your doctor.

Treatment with this medication may lead to increased cholesterol and triglyceride levels. The impact of these changes on heart health is not fully understood, so it is crucial to discuss this with your doctor.

Adhere to your doctor's recommendations for regular blood work and other laboratory tests.

This medication may interfere with certain lab tests. Inform all your healthcare providers and laboratory personnel that you are taking this drug.

There is a risk of blood clots associated with this medication. If you have a history of blood clots, notify your doctor and discuss this further.

As an anabolic steroid, this medication has the potential for abuse and misuse, which can lead to dependence and severe health problems, including cardiovascular issues, stroke, liver damage, and mental or mood disorders. Discuss the risks with your doctor.

In some individuals with cancer, high calcium levels have been reported with medications similar to this one. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms such as weakness, confusion, fatigue, headache, nausea, vomiting, constipation, or bone pain.

If a child or female accidentally comes into contact with the gel or solution, they may experience adverse effects. In children, these can include aggressive behavior, enlarged sex organs, and premature pubic hair growth. In females, possible effects include a deepened voice, changes in body hair, or acne. If this occurs, contact your doctor promptly.

If a pregnant woman is exposed to the gel or solution, seek medical attention immediately.

For individuals 65 years or older, use this medication with caution, as you may be more susceptible to side effects.

This medication is not approved for treating low testosterone levels associated with aging. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

High doses of this medication may affect sperm production in males, potentially impacting fertility. This effect may not be reversible after stopping the medication. If you have concerns, discuss them with your doctor.
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Overdose Information

Overdose Symptoms:

  • Excessive virilization (e.g., severe acne, hirsutism, male pattern baldness, clitoromegaly in females)
  • Fluid retention (edema)
  • Polycythemia (excess red blood cells, leading to symptoms like headache, dizziness, fatigue)
  • Mood disturbances (e.g., irritability, aggression)

What to Do:

If overdose is suspected, seek immediate medical attention or call a poison control center (e.g., 1-800-222-1222). Discontinue the medication and provide supportive care. Monitor testosterone levels, hematocrit, and liver function.

Drug Interactions

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Major Interactions

  • Oral Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin): May increase anticoagulant activity, leading to increased risk of bleeding. Monitor INR/PT closely.
  • Corticosteroids: Concomitant use may increase the risk of edema, especially in patients with cardiac, renal, or hepatic disease.
  • Insulin and Oral Hypoglycemics: Testosterone may decrease blood glucose levels, requiring a reduction in insulin or oral hypoglycemic dosage.
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Moderate Interactions

  • Cyclosporine: Testosterone may increase cyclosporine levels, potentially leading to increased toxicity. Monitor cyclosporine levels.
  • Thyroid Hormones: Testosterone may decrease levels of thyroid-binding globulin, leading to decreased total T4 levels and increased resin uptake of T3 and T4. Free thyroid hormone levels remain unchanged, and clinical hypothyroidism is rare.
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Confidence Interactions

Monitoring

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Baseline Monitoring

Serum Testosterone (total and free)

Rationale: To confirm diagnosis of hypogonadism and establish baseline levels.

Timing: Before initiation of therapy, typically in the morning.

Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA)

Rationale: To screen for prostate cancer, which is a contraindication for testosterone therapy.

Timing: Before initiation of therapy.

Hematocrit (Hct) and Hemoglobin (Hgb)

Rationale: To assess for polycythemia, a common adverse effect of testosterone therapy.

Timing: Before initiation of therapy.

Digital Rectal Exam (DRE)

Rationale: To screen for prostate abnormalities.

Timing: Before initiation of therapy.

Lipid Panel

Rationale: To assess cardiovascular risk factors, as testosterone may affect lipid profiles.

Timing: Before initiation of therapy.

Liver Function Tests (LFTs)

Rationale: To assess baseline liver function, especially in patients with pre-existing hepatic impairment.

Timing: Before initiation of therapy.

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Routine Monitoring

Serum Testosterone (total)

Frequency: 3-6 months after initiation, then annually or as clinically indicated. Measure approximately 2-4 hours after application for topical solutions.

Target: 300-1000 ng/dL (or within the mid-normal range for healthy young men)

Action Threshold: If levels are consistently above target range, reduce dose. If consistently below, increase dose or consider alternative therapy.

Hematocrit (Hct)

Frequency: 3-6 months after initiation, then annually.

Target: <54%

Action Threshold: If Hct >54%, discontinue therapy until Hct decreases, then restart at a lower dose or consider phlebotomy.

Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) and Digital Rectal Exam (DRE)

Frequency: Annually, or more frequently in patients at higher risk for prostate cancer (e.g., age >50, African American, family history).

Target: Stable or within normal limits for age.

Action Threshold: Significant increase in PSA or abnormal DRE warrants further urological evaluation.

Lipid Panel

Frequency: Annually or as clinically indicated.

Target: Within normal limits.

Action Threshold: Significant adverse changes may require dose adjustment or lipid-lowering therapy.

Liver Function Tests (LFTs)

Frequency: Periodically, especially if signs of hepatic dysfunction develop.

Target: Within normal limits.

Action Threshold: Elevated LFTs may require dose adjustment or discontinuation.

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Symptom Monitoring

  • Signs of virilization in women or children (e.g., voice deepening, hirsutism, clitoromegaly)
  • Signs of fluid retention (e.g., edema, weight gain)
  • Symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or prostate cancer (e.g., urinary frequency, urgency, nocturia, difficulty voiding)
  • Mood changes, irritability, aggression
  • Sleep apnea exacerbation
  • Skin reactions at application site (e.g., irritation, rash)

Special Patient Groups

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Pregnancy

Testosterone is contraindicated in pregnant women. It can cause virilization of the female fetus, including clitoral enlargement, abnormal vaginal development, and fusion of genital folds.

Trimester-Specific Risks:

First Trimester: High risk of virilization of female fetus.
Second Trimester: High risk of virilization of female fetus.
Third Trimester: High risk of virilization of female fetus.
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Lactation

Testosterone is contraindicated in breastfeeding women. It is unknown if testosterone is excreted in human milk, but due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in the breastfed infant (e.g., virilization), a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.

Infant Risk: High risk of virilization and other adverse effects.
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Pediatric Use

Testosterone therapy is not indicated for male hypogonadism in children. Use in pediatric patients can cause accelerated bone maturation and premature epiphyseal closure, resulting in compromised adult stature. Safety and efficacy have not been established in pediatric patients.

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Geriatric Use

Geriatric patients treated with androgen therapy may be at an increased risk for the development of prostate hyperplasia and prostate carcinoma. Increased risk of cardiovascular events (e.g., MI, stroke) has been reported in some studies, though data are conflicting. Close monitoring for prostate and cardiovascular adverse events is recommended.

Clinical Information

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Clinical Pearls

  • Ensure patients understand the importance of proper application technique and hand washing to prevent secondary transfer to women and children.
  • Emphasize covering the application site with clothing after drying to minimize transfer risk.
  • Monitor hematocrit closely, especially in the first year of therapy, as polycythemia is a common dose-limiting side effect.
  • Regular prostate monitoring (PSA and DRE) is crucial, particularly in older men.
  • Advise patients to report any signs of fluid retention, such as swelling in the ankles or feet.
  • Testosterone levels should be measured at steady state (e.g., 2-4 hours after application for topical solutions) to ensure accurate assessment and dose titration.
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Alternative Therapies

  • Testosterone Gels (e.g., AndroGel, Testim, Fortesta, Vogelxo)
  • Testosterone Patches (e.g., Androderm)
  • Testosterone Injections (e.g., Testosterone Cypionate, Testosterone Enanthate)
  • Testosterone Pellets (e.g., Testopel)
  • Testosterone Buccal Tablets (e.g., Striant)
  • Testosterone Nasal Gel (e.g., Natesto)
  • Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists/antagonists (for central hypogonadism, off-label)
  • Clomiphene citrate (off-label for secondary hypogonadism to stimulate endogenous production)
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Cost & Coverage

Generic Available: Yes
Insurance Coverage: Tier 2 or Tier 3 (preferred or non-preferred brand/generic)
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General Drug Facts

If your symptoms or health issues persist or worsen, it is essential to contact your doctor promptly. To ensure safe use, never share your medication with others or take someone else's medication. This medication is accompanied by a Medication Guide, which provides crucial information for patients. Please read this guide carefully and review it again whenever your prescription is refilled. If you have any questions or concerns about this medication, consult your doctor, pharmacist, or healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately call the poison control center or seek emergency medical attention. When reporting the incident, be prepared to provide details about the medication taken, the amount, and the time it occurred.