Testosterone

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Harshi Dhingra, M.D.

Last Reviewed: Nov 09, 2023

Side Effects


Testosterone (AndroGel) Side Effects

Possible side effects of testosterone are listed below. Tell your doctor if these side effects are severe or do not go away after a few days.

  • Gynecomastia (painful or enlarged breasts)
  • Decreased libido (sexual desire)
  • Acne
  • Headache
  • Mood changes or depression
  • Dry, itchy skin
  • Skin irritation
  • Watery eyes
  • Diarrhea 

Rarely, testosterone topical can cause more serious side effects. Call your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical attention if you develop:

  • Pain, redness, swelling, or warmth in the lower legs
  • Swelling of the hands, lower legs, ankles, or feet
  • Chest pain
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting
  • Weakness or numbness in one arm or leg
  • Slow speech or difficulty with speech
  • Frequent or prolonged erections
  • Urinary problems, including weak flow, frequent urination, urgency, or difficulty urinating
  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes

The above list may not include all the possible side effects of testosterone. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects if they are unusual or severe, or if they do not get better over time. You can also report unusual side effects to the Food and Drug Administration at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Testosterone (AndroGel) Overdose: In case of an overdose, contact your doctor immediately. You can also call the National Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222. If a person cannot be awakened, has trouble breathing, has collapsed, or has had a seizure, call 911.

Source: FDA