A testosterone transdermal patch delivers the hormone testosterone directly through the skin. It adheres to the body, providing a consistent method for supplementing testosterone levels. Its purpose is to replace testosterone when natural production is insufficient, offering a non-invasive way to manage specific medical needs.
Mechanism of Action
The testosterone transdermal patch delivers testosterone through the skin into the bloodstream. It contains a reservoir of testosterone dissolved in a gel, released steadily over 24 hours. This continuous release allows the hormone to enter the systemic circulation, maintaining stable testosterone concentrations.
Unlike methods with fluctuating hormone levels, the transdermal patch provides sustained and controlled delivery. This steady absorption helps mimic the body’s natural hormone production rhythm. The patch delivers a daily dose ranging from approximately 2 mg to 5 mg of testosterone.
When Patches Are Prescribed
Testosterone transdermal patches are primarily prescribed for adult men diagnosed with hypogonadism. This condition means the body does not produce enough natural testosterone. Hypogonadism can stem from disorders affecting the testicles, pituitary gland, or hypothalamus, which regulate hormones.
Before prescribing, a healthcare provider conducts laboratory tests to confirm low testosterone levels caused by these underlying medical conditions. These patches are not intended for treating low testosterone levels associated solely with natural aging. Testosterone patches require a prescription and close medical supervision for safe use.
Proper Application and Care
Applying a testosterone transdermal patch correctly is important for its effectiveness and to minimize skin irritation. Select a clean, dry, hair-free area of intact skin, avoiding burns, cuts, or irritated spots. Recommended sites include the back, abdomen, upper arms, or thighs. Avoid bony areas or spots with prolonged pressure, such as the shoulder or back of a leg while sitting.
Once the foil pouch is opened, apply the patch immediately. Carefully peel away the protective liner, avoiding the adhesive surface. Apply the exposed adhesive side to the chosen skin area, smoothing it down firmly for about 30 seconds to ensure good adhesion. The patch is typically applied once daily, often between 8:00 p.m. and midnight, and should remain in place for 24 hours.
Rotate application sites; avoid placing a new patch on the same spot for at least seven days. If a patch detaches before noon, apply a new one. If it falls off later, wait until the next scheduled application time. Patches can be worn during showering or swimming, but excessive sweating or strenuous exercise might cause them to loosen or fall off. For proper disposal, fold the used patch adhesive-side in and discard it safely, away from children and pets.
Managing Side Effects and Precautions
Common Side Effects
Skin irritation at the application site is a common side effect of testosterone transdermal patches. This irritation may manifest as redness, itching, burning, or blisters. If irritation persists, applying a small amount of hydrocortisone cream after removing the patch may help, but persistent issues warrant medical consultation.
Serious Side Effects
More serious side effects, though less common, require immediate medical attention. These include symptoms of blood clots in the legs or lungs, such as leg pain, swelling, redness, shortness of breath, or chest pain. Increased risks of heart attack and stroke have also been reported with testosterone replacement therapy, necessitating prompt medical evaluation if symptoms like chest pain, sudden numbness, or difficulty speaking occur.
Precautions
Precautions are important to prevent unwanted hormone transfer to others, especially women and children. Contact with the patch or treated skin can lead to male-like changes in them. If accidental contact occurs, wash the affected skin area immediately with soap and water.
Individuals with certain pre-existing conditions should generally not use testosterone patches or should use them with extreme caution. These conditions include breast cancer, known or suspected prostate cancer, or severe heart, kidney, or liver disease, due to potential complications. Regular monitoring by a doctor, including blood tests for testosterone levels and prostate-specific antigen (PSA), is important throughout treatment to assess effectiveness and detect any adverse effects.