Testosterone Gel for Men

March 26, 2024

4 mins

If you’re a man of a certain age and you’re starting to feel your physical health fade and your mood is becoming more irregular, you may have low testosterone levels. Fortunately, there are many possible solutions, one of which is testosterone gel.

In this article, we’ll go over everything you need to know about testosterone gel to help you better understand this treatment option.

What is Testosterone Gel?

Testosterone gel is a topical medication used in testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) to increase testosterone levels in men with low testosterone levels – a condition known as hypogonadism. It contains synthetic testosterone, which is absorbed through the skin and into the bloodstream.

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What are the Benefits of Testosterone Gel?

Testosterone gel is a convenient and non-invasive mode of administration compared to other forms of TRT. This is because of its topical application in easy-to-reach areas of the body. 

Testosterone gel is effective in raising testosterone levels in men with low levels of the hormone. This helps them to restore their T levels to within a normal range. 

Adequate levels of testosterone benefit the male body in various ways – both physical and mental. 

Testosterone is the primary sex hormone in men, playing an important role in sexual function and function and libido. This consists of your sex drive and your ability to achieve and maintain an erection. 

Low testosterone levels also contribute to mood changes and energy levels. Testosterone gel can help boost energy levels – giving you the drive to workout or even have some intimate moments with a partner. This also impacts your mood. One of the most common (and noticeable) symptoms of low T is irritability. This medication may help you wake up on the right side of the bed every morning!

Another benefit of testosterone gel is its effects on muscle mass and strength. It’s no secret that testosterone promotes muscle growth, and this gel can help ensure you’re getting enough support from within your body every time you hit the weight room. 

Besides promoting muscle growth, testosterone helps protect your body. By maintaining bone density and strength, testosterone can reduce the risk of osteoporosis and bone fractures – both of which can become more of a concern as you get up there in age. 

TRT can help maintain your overall physical and mental health in so many ways, and testosterone gel is a simple and efficient way to do so. 

How Do You Apply Testosterone Gel?

Testosterone gel typically comes in a small packet or tube and is applied to clean, dry skin, usually on the shoulders or upper arms. The medicine should not be applied to any other parts of the body including the abdomen, penis, scrotum, chest, armpits, or knees. 

After application, the gel dries quickly, leaving a thin film on the skin through which testosterone is absorbed over time. Wait until the gel is completely dried on your skin before putting your T-shirt back on. 

Be sure to wash your hands immediately after applying the gel. 

How Long Does Testosterone Gel Take to Work?

Testosterone gel typically starts to work within a few weeks to a couple of months after starting treatment. When applied to the skin, the testosterone in the gel is absorbed through the skin and enters the bloodstream, gradually increasing testosterone levels over time.

Early effects of testosterone gel therapy may include improvements in symptoms such as increased energy levels, enhanced mood, and improved libido. These effects can vary among individuals and may become more noticeable as testosterone levels rise within the normal range.

In terms of physical changes, such as increases in muscle mass and strength or improvements in bone density, these may take longer to become apparent and often require several months of consistent treatment. Building muscle and improving bone density are gradual processes that occur over time with regular application of testosterone gel, appropriate exercise, and proper nutrition.

As with any form of testosterone therapy, it's important for those using testosterone gel to have realistic expectations and to be patient with the process. Regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is essential to assess progress, adjust treatment as needed, and manage any potential side effects.

What are the Side Effects of Testosterone Gel?

Testosterone gel, like any medication, can cause side effects in some users. Common side effects include:

• Skin irritation at the application site

• Acne or oily skin

• Headache

• Fluid retention

• Increased red blood cell count

• Mood swings

• Sleep disturbances

• Breast tissue enlargement (gynecomastia)

It should be noted that these potential side effects are not necessarily specific to testosterone gel, and many other forms of TRT can cause the same or similar effects.

Be sure to monitor these side effects and notify your healthcare provider immediately if side effects worsen or don’t resolve over time to avoid potential risks.

How Do You Get Testosterone Gel?

Testosterone gel may be prescribed to men experiencing symptoms of low testosterone (hypogonadism). 

If you think that you may be experiencing low levels of testosterone, you may want to consider a blood test and find out if your levels are deficient or abnormal for your age. 

The most popular testosterone replacement gel is called AndroGel® 1.62%. It’s a controlled substance available by prescription only for men. 1.62% refers to the strength of testosterone in each dose (40.5 mg of testosterone).

How Can Rex MD Help?

Balanced testosterone levels are a key factor in men’s health, and fortunately, Rex MD has got what you need to boost your testosterone. 

With the Rex MD TestoRx program, you’ll have access quality care from a team of licensed clinicians and testosterone replacement therapies (if clinically appropriate) and other testosterone solutions that can help you feel like yourself again.

To find out if the program is right for you, just answer some questions about your symptoms and medical history. Your provider will order lab work for you to help determine if you’re eligible for TRT or another testosterone solution available through the program.

Then, you’ll be able to schedule a virtual call with the Rex MD care team to further discuss your results, eligibility, and which treatment option would be most suitable for you, if any.

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