Health Library

Testosterone (Into the nose)

Testosterone (tes-TOS-ter-one)

Treats low testosterone levels. Testosterone is a male hormone.

Brand Name(s):

Natesto

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Gel/Jelly

• Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
• Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
• This medicine is for use only in the nose. Do not get any of it in your eyes or on your skin. If it does get on these areas, rinse it off right away.
• To use:
  • Prime the pump the first time you use this medicine. To do this, hold the pump upside down over a sink, and slowly press the pump 10 times. Rinse the sink with warm water. Wipe the tip with a clean, dry tissue. The medicine is now ready to use.
  • If you get the medicine on your hands, wash them with warm water and soap.
  • Gently blow your nose to clear the nostrils.
  • Insert the tip of the pump into your left nostril and gently tilt it so that it touches the side of your nose. This will make sure the medicine is applied properly.
  • Slowly press the pump until it stops. Remove the tip from your nose.
  • Repeat these steps to apply the medicine into your right nostril.
  • After you use the pump, wipe the tip with a clean, dry tissue and put the cap back on.
  • Press your nostrils together just below the bridge of your nose and lightly rub them together.
  • Do not blow your nose or sniff for 1 hour after you use this medicine.
• Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep the medicine in a safe place. Do not give it to anyone else, even if you have the same symptoms.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Some medicines can affect how testosterone works. Tell your doctor if you are using any of the following:
  • Insulin
  • Other medicine that you use in your nose (including oxymetazoline)
  • Blood thinner (including warfarin)
  • Steroid (including dexamethasone, hydrocortisone, methylprednisolone, prednisolone, prednisone)

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you have kidney disease, liver disease, diabetes, an enlarged prostate, heart disease, high cholesterol, lung disease, sleep apnea, or a history of heart attack or stroke. Also tell your doctor if you have any nose or sinus problems, including allergies or history of nose or sinus surgery or a broken nose.
• This medicine may cause the following problems:
  • Increased risk of prostate cancer
  • Blood clot in your leg or lung
  • Possible increased risk of heart attack or stroke
  • Lower sperm count
• This medicine is not indicated for use in women and should never be used by a pregnant woman.
• This medicine can be habit-forming. Do not use more than your prescribed dose. Call your doctor if you think your medicine is not working.
• Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Change in how much or how often you urinate, trouble urinating
• Chest pain that may spread, trouble breathing, coughing up blood, unusual sweating, faintness
• Dark urine or pale stools, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach pain, yellow skin or eyes
• Pain, redness, or swelling in your arm or leg
• Swelling in your hands, ankles, legs, or feet

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• More erections than usual or erections that last a long time
• Runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, nosebleeds, or discomfort, scabbing, or dryness of your nose
• Swollen breasts

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 9/6/2024