How should I apply Testogel for menopause?

Testogel has become a topic of interest for many women going through menopause, with people asking questions about its use and benefits. In this article, we will answer why Testogel might be recommended for menopause, whether it is licensed for female use, and explain whether blood tests are necessary before starting testosterone therapy. We will also guide you on how to apply Testogel correctly, the expected duration of treatment, and how to monitor your progress with your doctor.

Key Takeaways

Here are the 5 biggest takeaways from this article about Testogel and the menopause:

• Testogel helps restore hormonal balance and alleviate these symptoms.

• There are no testosterone medications specifically licensed for female use in the UK. Testogel, though manufactured and licensed for men, is used off-label for women due to the lack of licensed options.

• Blood tests are recommended before starting testosterone therapy to measure total testosterone, SHBG, and FAI.

• The gel should be applied to clean, dry, unbroken skin on areas like the abdomen, upper arms, or thighs.

• Monitoring the progress of Testogel with a doctor is essential. Initial reviews should occur after 3 months to assess efficacy and tolerability, followed by annual reviews. The British Menopause Society recommends a 3-6 month trial period for testosterone therapy, with the typical duration of treatment being around five years.

Why would someone need Testogel therapy for menopause treatment?

Testogel therapy may be recommended for menopause treatment due to the significant drop in oestrogen levels that occurs after menopause. According to the NHS, this decline can lead to a decrease in the already low levels of testosterone, which may cause androgenic symptoms such as acne, increased facial hair growth and male pattern baldness. Testogel helps to restore the balance of hormones in the body and may potentially alleviate these symptoms and improve overall well-being. By maintaining a stable level of testosterone, Testogel can address the hormonal changes that contribute to these symptoms during menopause.

Is Testogel licensed for use in women?

Currently, there are no testosterone medications licensed specifically for female use in the UK according to the NHS. Previously available licensed medications were discontinued for commercial reasons, the safety and efficacy of testosterone replacement in women have been highlighted in studies and show a significant improvement in sexual function. Due to the lack of licensed female testosterone medications products like Testogel, which are manufactured and licensed for men, have been used off-label for female testosterone replacement. 

An off-label treatment is the use of a medication for a purpose that has not been approved by a regulatory authority. While the medication is licensed and approved for certain conditions, doctors may prescribe it for other uses based on their clinical judgement and medical evidence. Off-label use is legal and can be common, especially when standard treatments are not effective or available. However, the prescriber must stick to guidelines set by regulatory bodies like the General Medical Council (GMC) and the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).

Should I have blood tests with my doctor prior to starting testosterone therapy for menopause?

Yes, it is recommended to have blood tests with your doctor prior to starting testosterone therapy for menopause. The NHS outlines the importance of tests for total testosterone, sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), and Free Androgen Index (FAI) being conducted before beginning treatment. These tests help to determine if testosterone supplementation is appropriate for you, especially if you have symptoms of low sexual desire and arousal. Blood tests should be repeated at 3 and 6 months after starting therapy, and then annually.

How to apply Testogel for menopause

For the 1% Testogel, each 5g sachet contains 50mg of testosterone, with a pack of 30 sachets lasting approximately 300 days, according to the NHS. If you are prescribed with Testogel then your doctor will provide specific instructions on the amount of gel you should use daily. Typically you will apply the medication to unbroken, clean and dry skin on the abdomen, upper arms and thighs. 

How long should my Testogel treatment last?

The duration of your Testogel treatment will depend on the specific formulation you are using and your individual treatment plan. For 1% Testogel, each 5g sachet contains 50mg of testosterone. A pack of 30 sachets is designed to last approximately 300 days when you follow the directions provided to you by your doctor, according to the NHS.

Should I monitor my Testogel menopause treatment progress with my doctor?

Yes, it is essential to monitor your Testogel menopause treatment progress with your doctor. NICE guidelines highlighted by the NHS advise that treatment for short-term menopausal symptoms should be reviewed 3 months in to assess efficacy and tolerability. The British Menopause Society suggests a 3-6 month trial of testosterone therapy to evaluate its effectiveness. Typically, women may remain on testosterone treatment for around five years however this will vary depending on results and your doctor's recommendations.

Sources

GP fact sheet Testosterone gel for women in the menopause - NHS.

Application for Testosterone - British Menopause Society