Testosterone

Adults: Prior to starting testosterone gel 1.62 percent, hypogonadism should be confirmed by measuring serum testosterone in the morning on at least two separate days and verifying that both readings fall below the normal range. The starting dose of testosterone gel 1.62 percent is 40.5 mg of testosterone, given as 2 pump actuations or a single 40.5 mg packet, applied topically once daily in the morning. Apply to clean, dry, intact skin on the shoulders and upper arms only. Testosterone gel 1.62 percent should not be applied to any other part of the body, including the abdomen, genitals, chest, armpits (axillae), or knees. Dose adjustment: the dose of testosterone gel 1.62 percent may be adjusted between a minimum of 20.25 mg of testosterone (1 pump actuation or a single 20.25 mg packet) and a maximum of 81 mg of testosterone (4 pump actuations or two 40.5 mg packets). Titration should be guided by the pre-dose morning serum testosterone concentration measured at approximately 14 days and 28 days after starting treatment or after any dose adjustment. Serum testosterone concentration should also be checked periodically afterward. Patients should wash their hands immediately with soap and water after applying testosterone gel 1.62 percent and should cover the application site with clothing once the gel has dried. The application site should be washed thoroughly with soap and water before any anticipated skin to skin contact with another person.