Testosterone Cream
A compounded testosterone cream that a licensed provider may prescribe as part of a sexual wellness program after an evaluation that includes lab work. It is not FDA approved.
Compounded drugs are not FDA approved. FDA does not review compounded drugs for safety, effectiveness, or quality before marketing.
See it before your first visit
Photographs of the medication as dispensed.
What it is
Testosterone cream is a compounded topical medication that contains testosterone, a hormone. A licensed provider may prescribe it as part of a sexual wellness program after reviewing your symptoms, lab results, medications, and health history.
It is a compounded medication. It is prepared by a licensed pharmacy for an individual patient based on a prescription. It is not FDA approved, and the FDA has not evaluated it for safety, effectiveness, or quality. The strength and directions are set by your prescriber and printed on your pharmacy label.
Testosterone is a Schedule III controlled substance in the United States. Prescribing and dispensing are subject to federal and state rules, and availability varies by state.
How it works
When applied to the skin, testosterone is absorbed through the skin into the bloodstream. Testosterone is a hormone that plays a role in sexual health in both men and women. Your provider decides whether treatment is appropriate, chooses the strength and schedule, and adjusts it based on your symptoms, lab results, and side effects.
What to expect
Treatment starts with an evaluation by a licensed provider, which usually includes lab testing. Your provider will tell you where on the body to apply the cream, how much to use, and how often. Follow-up visits and repeat lab work are part of treatment for as long as you use it.
Always wash your hands with soap and water after applying, let the area dry, and cover it with clothing. Wash the area before skin-to-skin contact. Individual responses vary, and results are not guaranteed.
Who it is for
Whether testosterone cream is appropriate for you is a decision made by a licensed provider based on your symptoms, examination, laboratory results, and health history. It is not right for everyone and carries specific risks.
Tell your provider if you have or have had prostate or breast cancer, heart disease, high blood pressure, blood clots, sleep apnea, liver or kidney disease, or high red blood cell counts, and if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Share every medication and supplement you take. Testosterone should not be used to build muscle or improve athletic performance.
This page is general information and is not medical advice.
Side effects
Commonly reported side effects include skin irritation or redness where the cream is applied, acne, oily skin, and fluid retention. Testosterone can raise red blood cell counts, which needs monitoring.
In women, testosterone can cause unwanted hair growth, deepening of the voice, enlargement of the clitoris, hair thinning, and changes in the menstrual cycle. Some of these changes may not reverse after stopping.
In men, testosterone can cause breast enlargement, lower sperm count and fertility, and prostate changes.
Serious risks include increased blood pressure, heart attack, stroke, blood clots, and worsening sleep apnea. Seek urgent care for chest pain, shortness of breath, trouble speaking, weakness on one side, or leg swelling and pain. This is not a complete list. Ask your provider about the full prescribing information.
Read this before you start
Compounded drugs are not FDA approved. FDA does not review compounded drugs for safety, effectiveness, or quality before marketing.
Medication availability, formulation, packaging and pharmacy fulfillment vary based on the patient's prescription and location.
Compounded medication. This medication is compounded by a licensed pharmacy and is not FDA approved. The FDA has not evaluated compounded medications for safety, effectiveness, or quality. It is prescribed for an individual patient by a licensed provider.
Controlled substance. Testosterone is a Schedule III controlled substance with a potential for abuse and dependence. It may only be prescribed by a provider with appropriate registration and dispensed by a licensed pharmacy. Availability depends on your state.
Exposure of others. Testosterone can transfer from your skin to other people through contact. Children and women who are or may be pregnant must avoid contact with the treated area and with any clothing that has touched it. Exposure can cause serious effects in children, including early signs of puberty and abnormal genital changes, and can harm an unborn baby. Wash your hands after applying, cover the area, and wash it before contact. Tell your provider right away if someone is exposed.
Blood pressure and heart health. Testosterone products can raise blood pressure and may increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular events. Your provider should monitor your blood pressure.
Who should not use it. Do not use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have known or suspected prostate or breast cancer, unless your provider directs otherwise.
Use in women. No testosterone product is FDA approved to treat low sexual desire in women. Any such use is a prescriber's clinical decision made after discussing the benefits and risks with you.
Misuse. Using more than prescribed can cause serious health problems.
Not medical advice. The information on this page is general and educational. It does not establish a provider relationship and does not replace a consultation with a licensed provider.
Common questions
Is testosterone cream FDA approved?
This compounded testosterone cream is not FDA approved. Compounded medications are prepared by a licensed pharmacy for an individual patient, and the FDA has not evaluated them for safety, effectiveness, or quality.
Do I need a prescription and lab work?
Yes. Testosterone is a controlled substance. A licensed provider must evaluate you, usually with lab testing, before prescribing it, and follow-up labs continue during treatment.
Can testosterone cream be used by women?
A provider may prescribe it to women in some cases. No testosterone product is FDA approved to treat low sexual desire in women, and it can cause side effects such as unwanted hair growth and voice changes. Your provider will discuss the risks.
Can testosterone cream affect other people?
Yes. It can transfer through skin contact. Children and pregnant women should not touch the treated area. Wash your hands after applying, cover the area with clothing, and wash it before contact.
Will it affect fertility?
It can. Testosterone can lower sperm production in men and can affect cycles and pregnancy in women. Tell your provider before starting if you are planning to have children.
What are the common side effects?
Skin irritation, acne, and fluid retention are common. Serious risks include higher blood pressure, blood clots, and heart and stroke events.
Is it available in my state?
It depends. Rules for controlled substances vary by state, so a provider in your state can confirm.
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