Side Effects of Testosterone Gel

Headaches, insomnia, and skin reactions at the application site are some of the common side effects reported with testosterone gel. In most cases, these problems are minor and easily treated. However, there are some potentially serious testosterone gel side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider, such as changes in skin color, breathing problems, or depression.

An Introduction to Side Effects of Testosterone Gel

Just like any medicine, testosterone gel (AndroGel®, Testim®) can cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the medication will have problems. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider.
 
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with testosterone gel. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of testosterone gel side effects with you.)
 

Testosterone Gel Side Effects to Report

Some side effects with testosterone gel are potentially serious, and should be reported to your healthcare provider right away. These include but are not limited to:
 
  • Depression
  • Hostility or rage
  • Prostate cancer
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Changes in skin color
  • Sleep apnea
  • Signs of congestive heart failure, such as rapid weight gain, shortness of breath, and fluid retention
  • Infertility
  • Signs of liver damage, such as yellowing of the whites of the eyes or skin (jaundice)
  • Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
 
    • An unexplained rash
    • Hives
    • Itching
    • Swelling of the mouth or throat
    • Wheezing
    • Difficulty breathing.
 

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(Side Effects of Testosterone Gel Continued: Page 2)
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;
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