Testosterone Patch for Men
Your doctor may prescribe a testosterone patch if your body is not producing enough testosterone on its own. There are three types of testosterone patches. These are applied in different locations on your body and have their own precautions and instructions for use. Be sure you understand how to use the type of patch you receive. Follow your doctor's orders closely to gain optimum benefit from the testosterone patch.
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Androderm
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The Androderm testosterone patch is applied to your arms, thighs, back or abdomen. Avoid bony areas like the top of your shoulders or your elbows. Choose a new location for your patch each day and allow seven days before reapplying to the same area. Apply by pressing the sticky side against your skin. Leave in place 24 hours. Replace the patch every night at bedtime.
Testoderm
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The Testoderm testosterone patch is designed to be placed on the skin of your scrotum. The skin in this area is thin and readily absorbs the testosterone. If the Testoderm patch is placed anywhere else on your body, the correct amount of medication will not be absorbed because your skin is thicker elsewhere. Prepare your skin first by shaving, cleaning and drying your scrotum. Apply the patch by pressing the shiny, sticky side to your skin. The testosterone patch should be applied each morning and left in place for at least 24 hours.
Testoderm TTS
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The Testoderm TTS patch is to be applied to your arms, back or upper buttocks. Choose a new location each time you apply and avoid the bony areas over your hips. Apply a new patch every morning and leave it in place for 22 hours. If the patch falls off, you can replace it or put on a new one.
Side Effects
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According to drugs.com, the possible side effects of a testosterone patch include skin blistering, skin redness, itching, breast enlargement, breast soreness, painful or prolonged erections and frequent urge to urinate. Other less common side effects might occur such as weight gain, nausea, mood changes, swelling of feet, tiredness, chills, abdominal pain and loss of appetite.
Complications
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Discuss the possible complications of using a testosterone patch with your doctor. This includes the rare possibility of developing liver disease, such as liver cancer or liver tumors. Testosterone patches may stimulate the growth of prostate cancer or cause an enlarged prostate. Using a testosterone patch may temporarily interfere with sperm production and hinder your ability to have children during the time you are using the patch.
The Testoderm patch may pass testosterone to your sexual partner. You can remove the patch before sexual activity and replace it afterwards. The trace amount of testosterone on your skin may pass to your partner if skin-to-skin contact is made. Your partner should watch for symptoms such as increased acne and hair growth in unusual places.
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