Transdermal Testosterone Cream — Daily Testosterone Support

Applied topically once daily to clean, dry skin on the inner arms, upper arms, thighs, or other prescriber-specified sites. Apply the prescribed amount (typically measured in grams or pump clicks) and rub in until fully absorbed. Allow to dry before dressing. Wash hands thoroughly after application. Prevent skin-to-skin transfer to partners or children—cover the application site with clothing until fully absorbed, or shower before close contact.

Dose (concentration and volume) is individualized by the prescriber based on serum testosterone targets and patient response:

• Men: typical compounded concentrations range from 1–5% to achieve physiologic testosterone levels; apply prescribed volume once daily in the morning
• Women: typically lower concentrations (0.5–2%); apply small amounts to inner labia majora, inner thigh, or upper arm as directed
• Monitor serum testosterone at steady state (after 7 consecutive days of use), measured 2–4 hours post-application
• Titrate concentration or volume based on lab results and clinical response

• Testosterone: Absorbed transdermally through the stratum corneum, bypassing first-pass hepatic metabolism. Free testosterone in the dermis enters systemic circulation and binds intracellular androgen receptors (AR) in target tissues including muscle, bone, CNS, and skin. The testosterone-AR complex regulates transcription of androgen-responsive genes governing protein anabolism, erythropoiesis, libido, secondary sex characteristics, and HPG axis feedback. In peripheral tissues, testosterone undergoes local conversion to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) via 5α-reductase (higher potency AR agonist) and to estradiol via aromatase (responsible for some of testosterone's bone and libido effects).

Transdermal testosterone cream is used for male hypogonadism and female androgen insufficiency syndrome. Women may benefit from low-dose testosterone for symptoms including diminished libido, fatigue, and reduced sense of wellbeing when other causes have been excluded. Male use targets primary and secondary hypogonadism.

Monitoring parameters:

• Total and free serum testosterone drawn 2–4 hours post-application at steady state
• Hematocrit/hemoglobin (polycythemia risk in men)
• PSA in men ≥40 years
• Lipid panel
• In women: signs of virilization (acne, hirsutism, voice changes, clitoral enlargement); if detected, reduce or discontinue
• Bone mineral density in hypogonadal patients with prolonged deficiency

Contraindications:

• Known or suspected prostate or breast cancer
• Pregnancy (Category X)
• Hypersensitivity to testosterone or cream excipients

Warnings & Precautions:

• Secondary skin transfer: women, children, and pregnant women must not contact treated skin
• Polycythemia in men: monitor hematocrit; dose adjust if elevated
• Cardiovascular risk and fluid retention
• Virilization in female patients at supratherapeutic doses
• Fertility suppression in men with chronic use
• Androgenic effects: acne, oily skin, androgenic alopecia

Drug Interactions:

• Warfarin: potentiated anticoagulant effect
• Insulin/hypoglycemics: testosterone may lower blood glucose

Common Side Effects: Application site reactions, acne, increased body hair, increased hematocrit in men, mood changes.

Store at room temperature (15–30°C), away from heat and direct light. Do not freeze. Keep the tube or jar sealed when not in use. Use within the beyond-use date established by Genesis Compounding. Keep out of reach of children.

How does a cream differ from testosterone injections or gels?

A cream formulation is absorbed through the skin, providing a steady daily delivery of testosterone without the peaks and troughs associated with injections. It avoids needles and is often preferred for fine-dose titration. Gels use a similar mechanism but in a different vehicle base.

Where should I apply the cream?

Apply to the skin site specified by your prescriber—commonly the inner arm, upper arm, or thigh in men, and for women often the inner thigh or inner labia majora for lower doses. Rotate sites to reduce local irritation.

Can I accidentally transfer this to others?

Yes. Skin transfer is possible until the cream is fully absorbed. Always cover the site with clothing or shower before close skin contact with partners or children.

Is this FDA-approved?

FDA-approved commercial testosterone creams and gels exist for men. This compounded preparation allows individualized concentrations and volumes not available in commercial products, prepared by Genesis Compounding as a 503A patient-specific formulation.

How often do I need bloodwork?

Serum testosterone should be checked after 7 days of consistent use (steady state), measured 2–4 hours after the morning application. Hematocrit should be checked every 3–6 months in men. Your prescriber will determine the monitoring schedule.