Testosterone

Testosterone

Drug monograph · NCLEX study reference
Trade names	AndroGel, Depo-Testosterone
Therapeutic class	Androgen replacement
Pharmacologic class	Anabolic-androgenic hormone
Onset / peak / duration	Depends on formulation (daily gel, IM every 1 to 4 weeks).
Half-life / level	Varies; monitor serum testosterone.
Routes	IM, Transdermal, Topical
High-alert (ISMP)	No
Black box warning	Yes (see Safety)
Antidote / reversal	None; discontinue.
Pregnancy / lactation	Contraindicated; risk of fetal virilization through exposure.

Nursing pharmacology study reference (NCLEX-style monograph). Numeric values are standard teaching ranges for study and must be verified against current manufacturer labeling before clinical use. This is educational content, not prescribing guidance.

Testosterone (brand names AndroGel, Depo-Testosterone) — Androgen replacement; Anabolic-androgenic hormone.

Identification

• Therapeutic class: Androgen replacement.
• Pharmacologic class: Anabolic-androgenic hormone.

Pharmacology

• Mechanism of action: Replaces testosterone to support male secondary characteristics and metabolism.
• Onset / peak / duration: Depends on formulation (daily gel, IM every 1 to 4 weeks).
• Half-life / therapeutic level: Varies; monitor serum testosterone.

Clinical use

• Indications: Male hypogonadism.
• Usual dose, route, frequency: Topical gel daily; IM ester every 1 to 4 weeks; patch daily.
• Maximum dose / adjustments: Titrate to testosterone level and symptoms.

Safety

• Contraindications: Prostate or breast cancer, pregnancy (teratogenic exposure).
• Black box warning: Secondary exposure of children and women to topical testosterone can cause virilization; avoid skin-to-skin contact at the application site.
• Interactions: Warfarin (increased effect), insulin (may lower glucose), corticosteroids (edema).
• Pregnancy / lactation: Contraindicated; risk of fetal virilization through exposure.
• High-alert: No.

Adverse effects

• Common side effects: Acne, mood changes, polycythemia, application-site reactions.
• Serious effects to report: Worsening prostate symptoms, polycythemia, possible cardiovascular events, mood disturbance.
• Antidote / reversal: None; discontinue.

Nursing process

• Assessment before administration: Testosterone level, hematocrit, prostate-specific antigen, cardiovascular history.
• Interventions during therapy: Apply gel to clean dry skin and cover; rotate IM sites; wash hands.
• Monitor: Testosterone, hematocrit, PSA, lipids, mood.
• Evaluation / expected outcome: Restored testosterone and symptom relief.

Patient teaching

• Patient teaching: Prevent transfer by covering the site and washing hands; keep away from children and pregnant women.
• Notify provider if: Difficulty urinating, chest pain, leg swelling, mood changes.
• Administration tips: Apply gel as directed; do not let others touch the area.