AndroGel Skin Side Effects

Doctors prescribe AndroGel to men suffering from hypogonadism. Hypogonadism occurs when the body does not produce adequate levels of the testosterone hormone. AndroGel is a topical medication. Side effects involving the skin can occur while using the testosterone gel. Side effects fall into one of three categories—common, serious or rare. Consult a doctor any time side effects occur.

Common

• According to the official AndroGel website, as many as 5.6 percent of men experience minor dry skin at the application site. About 8 percent of patients develop acne. Individuals may experience slight redness at the application site. If symptoms worsen, contact a doctor.

Serious

• Serious skin side effects from using testosterone gel occur infrequently but are potentially serious. Immediately seek medical attention if skin tone appears yellow. Yellow skin is a symptom of jaundice, which signals the possibility of liver damage. An unexplained rash, severe itching and hives are all allergic reactions and require medical attention.

Rare

• Dry skin over the entire body, flushed skin and excessive sweating are rare skin side effects of AndroGel. Less than 1 percent of patients using AndroGel experience exceptionally dry skin, flushed skin or unexplained sweating. Because these symptoms can have any number of causes, it is not always easy to attribute them to the use of the testosterone gel. Consult a doctor for evaluation.