Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

TESTOSTERONE - TRANSDERMAL (SCROTAL)

(tess-TOSS-ter-own)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Testoderm

Uses

These medicated patches contain testosterone. Testosterone is a male sex hormone responsible for growth and development of male sex organs and male sex characteristics such as chest hair, facial hair, pubic hair, voice changes and muscle growth. The patches are used to treat low testosterone levels.

How To Use

Apply a patch to the scrotum as directed, usually one patch each day. To use the patch, remove the protective backing to expose the adhesive surface. Place patch with the adhesive side on clean, dry scrotal skin. For best results, shave scrotal hair (do not use chemical hair removers). The patch is worn for 22 to 24 hours then replaced with a new patch. To discard a patch, remove it and fold it so the adhesive side is on the outside. Place the folded patch in the pouch from which the new patch is taken and discard it in the trash. The patches will not be effective if applied to sites other than scrotal skin.

Side Effects

Scrotal itching, irritation or discomfort may occur the first few days as your body adjusts to the patch. Other side effects reported include acne, breast tenderness, swelling of the breasts, headache, anxiety or a change in sex drive. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop any of these effects while using this medication: painful or frequent urination, frequent or persistent erections, nausea, vomiting, swelling of the feet or ankles, mental confusion, depression, breathing trouble. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Before using this drug, notify your doctor of any disease you have, especially: cancer of the prostate or breast (males), heart disease, liver or kidney disease, enlarged prostate, any allergies. High dosage, long-term use of androgens has been related to liver cancer. Discuss your medicine with your doctor/pharmacist. This drug must not be used during pregnancy. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. Do not breast-feed while using this medication. Females should be monitored for signs of virilization, such as deepening of the voice, facial hair, acne, menstrual irregularity, or clitoral enlargement. Consult your doctor promptly if any of these symptoms occur. Use in children should be undertaken with extreme caution due to the possibility this drug may have undesirable effects related to the growth of the child. Geriatric men are at higher risk for developing enlarged prostates or prostate cancer when using this medication.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take including: "blood thinners", (e.g., warfarin) insulin, oxyphenbutazone, diabetes medication. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, remove the patch. Contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

Notes

Laboratory tests will be done periodically while using this medication to monitor its effects and to prevent side effects. Female partners of patients using this medication have a minimal chance of developing acne or a change in body hair distribution and should report these to their doctor should they occur.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, apply a new patch as soon as remembered and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store patches at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) away from heat, light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Properly discard of used patches.