Let's take a minute to talk about your medication.

This is Androgel, and it contains testosterone. This medicine treats low levels of testosterone in men who have certain medical conditions. It may have other uses, too.

Androgel is often applied once in the morning after bathing. You should apply it EXACTLY as your doctor tells you to. You will select an area of your shoulder or upper arm that you can cover with a t-shirt. Then, you will use the palm of your hand to gently rub the medicine into the skin. Lastly, you should wash your hands with soap and water right away. You should not get the area wet for at least two hours. Also, do not go near an open flame until it is dry.

This medicine can harm women, children and pets who accidentally come into contact with it. To help protect others, you must take three steps after each dose: 
- Put on a t-shirt AFTER the medicine dries.
- Store it in a safe place.
- And, if you expect to have skin-to-skin contact with another person, you must first wash the area with soap and water.

Common side effects include mood swings and skin irritation at the dosing area. These effects are normal if they are mild and should go away. Your doctor will watch for other effects like high blood pressure, high red blood cell counts, and high results in a blood test for prostate cancer. If these or other side effects become reasons you want to stop taking this medicine, please talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

As with any medicine, more serious side effects can occur. You should read the Medication Guide for more information and to learn about possible drug interactions.

For best results with Androgel, be sure to plan ahead for refills.