What is Fortesta?
The prescription drug Fortesta Gel contains testosterone. Testosterone, a male hormone that occurs naturally in the body, is necessary for many bodily processes. Fortesta Gel is used to treat men with conditions that are caused by a lack of natural testosterone. Fortesta is not intended to enhance athletic performance.
Warnings
Fortesta Gel should not be used on a pregnant woman. The use of testosterone can cause birth defects in an unborn child. Women who are pregnant should not come into contact with Fortesta Gel or the skin of men where it has been applied. If you do come into contact with the gel, immediately wash it off using soap and water. Topical tetracycline is absorbed by the skin and can cause symptoms or side effects of male features. This may occur in children or women who come into close contact with Fortesta. Fortesta misuse can have dangerous or irreversible side effects. Do not exceed the prescribed dosage. This medication should not be shared with anyone.
Similar/related drugs
testosterone, androgel, chorionic gonadotropin (hcg), pregnyl, xyosted, and depo-testosterone
How to take Fortesta?
Follow the directions on your prescription label. Please follow all the instructions on the prescription label. Use this medication only as prescribed. Do not exceed the prescribed dosage or extend its use beyond what is advised. The patient instructions accompany this medicine and ensure safe and effective usage. Please follow the instructions carefully. If you have any inquiries, seek the advice of your physician or pharmacist. Misuse of testosterone may cause irreversible or dangerous effects. These include enlarged breasts and small testicles, infertility, high blood pressure, heart attacks, strokes, liver disease, and bone growth issues.
This medicine is not to be shared with anyone else.
- You will need to prime your pump before using Fortesta. Push down the pump eight times to prime it. Fortesta gel that has been released during priming should not be used. It is best to wash it down the drain or toss it in the garbage to prevent accidental exposure. Now your pump is ready for use.
- Press the pump and apply the medicine to the clean, dry skin on the inner and outer parts of your thighs. Gently rub the gel with one finger on the inner and outer parts of your thighs.
- Apply Fortesta Gel in the morning. After showering or bathing, apply the gel.
- Only apply the gel to areas covered by shorts and pants.
- Allow the application area to dry completely before you put on your shorts or trousers.
- Do not wait to wash your hands.
After applying the gel, avoid swimming, bathing, or showering for 2 hours. Fortesta gel is flammable. Keep away from open flames or high heat. Smoke only after the gel is completely dry. To prevent the spread of this medication to others, cover treated skin areas. If another person comes into contact with the treated area of skin, they should wash it immediately with soap and warm water. You may need to have frequent blood tests while using Fortesta. Fortesta should be taken regularly for maximum benefit. Refill your prescription before you run out. Store at room temperature away from heat and moisture.
What happens if I miss the dose?
As soon as you recall, apply the gel. If it's almost time for your next dose, simply skip any missed ones.
What happens if I overdose?
Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention.
What should be avoided?
This medicine should not be applied to the penis or scrotum. After applying Fortesta Gel, avoid swimming, bathing, or showering 2 to 5 hours later. Follow the instructions provided by your brand. Fortesta gel may be flammable. Do not use it near an open flame, and do not smoke until the gel is completely dry on your skin.
Side effects of Fortesta
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, or swelling of your throat, get emergency medical attention.
Call your doctor immediately if:
- Increased urination (many urinations per day), loss of bladder control
- Urination that is painful or difficult
- Breast pain or swelling
- Erections that are painful or annoying;
- Swelling, rapid weight gain, and shortness of breath during sleep
- Pain in your chest or pressure that spreads to your jaw, shoulder, or neck
- Liver problems: nausea, upper abdominal pain, itching and fatigue, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice
- Signs of a Blood Clot in the Lung: chest pain, sudden wheezing or coughing, rapid breathing, and blood coughing;
- Signs of a deep blood clot: swelling, warmth, or redness on an arm or limb
Topical tetracycline is absorbed by the skin. This can lead to side effects and symptoms of masculinity in children or women who come into contact with it. Contact your doctor immediately if someone who has been in close contact with you experiences enlarged genitals or pubic hair prematurely, an increased libido or aggressive behavior, excessive hair growth on the body, acne, or increased hair growth.
Some of the side effects that may occur with Fortesta include:
- Redness, itching or burning of the skin, or any other irritation, where the medicine is applied or the skin patch is worn.
- Increased red blood cells can cause symptoms such as dizziness, itchiness, and muscle pain.
- Increased prostate-specific antigen
- Increased blood pressure
- Headache;
- Mood changes, strange dreams;
- Erections that are frequent or prolonged
- Nausea, vomiting;
- Swelling in your lower legs.
There may be other side effects. For medical advice regarding side effects, call your physician. The FDA can be reached at 1-800-FDA-1088 if any adverse reactions arise and can also report side effects directly.
Interaction with other drug
Tell your doctor if you are taking any other medications or if you will stop using them during treatment with Fortesta.
- Insulin;
- A blood thinner (warfarin coumadin jantoven);
- Steroid medicine, such as methylprednisolone (medrol) or prednisone (sterapred).
This list is incomplete. Other drugs, such as prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products, may interact with testosterone. This medication guide does not cover all possible interactions.
