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When Testosterone gel 1% is applied to the skin, it dries and is absorbed into the body. The testosterone in the gel enters the bloodstream over a 24-hour period and restores the man's normal testosterone level. When used regularly, Testosterone gel effectively treats the symptoms of low testosterone, which include reduced bone density, low sex drive, erectile dysfunction, fatigue and depressed mood.
If Testosterone gel is being used in the correct dose to treat low testosterone, it should not cause significant side effects, other than a possible reaction to the gel carrier. Bothersome side effects caused by Testosterone gel are almost certainly a result of overtreatment of the condition, or misdiagnosis. The correct dose of Testosterone gel simply restores normal levels of testosterone to the body. The only exception to this is if Testosterone gel is being used to treat a female-to-male transsexual. In this case, side effects may occur as the female body adjusts to high levels of testosterone.
A majority of men respond well to Testosterone gel. Most side effects are easily tolerated and do not require treatment. However, some men experience bothersome side effects like acne, headaches, enlarged prostate, and breast growth. Rarely, people can experience an allergic reaction to the carrier gel, which can cause an itchy rash or hives in the area the gel is applied.
Because Testosterone gel produces hormonal changes, it can lead to breast swelling or tenderness, sexual dysfunction (too low or too high sex drive) and depression. The most common side effects of Testosterone gel include increased hair growth, urinary difficulties, prolonged erections and nausea. Certain side effects may require emergency medical care, including shortness of breath, ankle swelling, jaundice.
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