Testosterone Gels

Testosterone gels are topical hormone treatments used for testosterone replacement therapy or gender-affirming care. They deliver testosterone through the skin, providing steady blood levels without injections.

Common brands include Testogel, Tostran, Androgel, Testavan, and Testim.
All contain the same active ingredient (
testosterone) but differ in strength, formulation, packaging, and regional availability.


ProductStrengthFormat & PackagingTypical Application SitesKey FeaturesRegional Availability
Testogel1% or 16.2 mg/gPump (multi-dose) or single-use sachetsShoulders, upper arms, or abdomen.Smooth, clear gel; easy daily dosing; well-studied; steady absorption.Widely used in Europe and UK; available in many regions.
Tostran2%Metered pump dispenserAbdomen or inner thighs (rotate sites).Higher concentration → smaller volume; pump ensures accurate dosing.Common in Europe and UK; some availability elsewhere.
Androgel1% or 1.62%Pump or sachets (varies by market)Upper arms, shoulders, or abdomen.U.S.-origin brand; easy daily use; strong patient guidance on avoiding transfer.Widely used in the US, Canada, and parts of Latin America.
Testavan2%Metered pumpShoulders and upper arms.Quick-drying formula; low residue after application.Licensed in several EU countries; limited in UK and North America.
Testim1%Tube (e.g., 5 g)Shoulders, upper arms, or abdomen.Can apply part of tube (dose flexibility); slightly stickier texture.Used in UK, Europe, and some Asia-Pacific regions; less common in the US.


How It Works

  • The gel is applied to clean, dry skin (shoulders, upper arms, or abdomen) and absorbed through the skin into the bloodstream.

  • It avoids the 'first-pass' effect of the liver that happens with oral testosterone, helping maintain more steady blood levels. 

  • Because it's applied daily, it tends to create fewer peaks and troughs in hormone levels compared with short-acting injections.


How to Use It

  1. Wash your hands and make sure skin is clean and dry. +1

  2. Apply the prescribed amount of gel to the selected area.

  3. Rub it in gently until fully absorbed.

  4. Wait for it to dry before dressing (usually a few minutes).

  5. Avoid washing that area or swimming for at least 2 hours to allow absorption. +1

  6. Always wash your hands after application to prevent passing the gel to someone else.


Typical Dose & Monitoring

  • A common dose is 2.5 to 5 grams of gel per day (delivering about 25-50 mg of testosterone). 

  • The dose may be adjusted based on blood tests, clinical effects, and side effects.

  • Regular monitoring (blood tests, medical review) ensures safety and effectiveness.


Storage and Safety

  • Store at room temperature (15-30°C), away from light and heat. 

  • Do not freeze.

  • Keep out of reach of children and pets.

  • Always follow instructions for hygienic application to avoid unintended transfer.

  • You can read about side effects here.