Testosterone gel is medication that contains 1% testosterone in a transdermal delivery solution. Testosterone is a naturally occurring steroid hormone that exerts both anabolic (tissue building) and androgenic (masculinizing) effects. Testosterone increases skeletal muscle mass and promotes bone density, produces sperm and in adolescent males, stimulates the development of masculine characteristics, such as facial hair and a deepened voice.

Because exogenous (externally produced) testosterone can stimulate muscle growth, athletes and bodybuilders use testosterone containing products to promote gains in muscle mass. Users must apply Testosterone gel to the skin in dosages of 5, 7 or 10 grams, and over a 24-hour period, the skin will absorb approximately 10 percent of the applied testosterone.

Apply Testosterone gel to the clean, dry skin of the shoulders/upper arms/lower stomach (abdomen). Avoid applying gel to skin with open sores or to broken, irritated skin. Do not apply this medication to the genitals (penis or scrotum). After applying this medication, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to reduce the possibility of spreading the medicine from your hands to other people. Allow this medication to dry completely on the skin before getting dressed. Make sure to cover the application site with clothing. After applying the gel, wait 5-6 hours before you shower or swim. This medication is flammable. Avoid smoking and open flame until the gel has dried.

Apply Testosterone gel once per day at approximately the same time each day, preferably in the morning. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Using it at the same time each day helps maintain a steady level of testosterone in the blood. It will also help you remember when to apply it.