Natesto

Natesto nasal gel is administered to treat hypogonadism in men, a condition in which the body does not produce enough natural testosterone.

A natural male hormone, testosterone is responsible for the growth and development of the sex organs, as well as the maintenance of other sex characteristics. This drug is only available with a doctor’s prescription.

If you are about to start Natesto, speak with your doctor about what you need to know. The risks and benefits the medicine offer must be weighed.

Before using this medicine, you and your doctor must consider the following:

• Allergies: If you have any unusual reaction to any medicine, including montelukast, be sure to tell your doctor about it. Additionally, disclose other types of allergies - foods, preservatives, animals, or dyes, if there are any. Read the package ingredients carefully and make sure you are not allergic to any of its ingredients.
• Pediatric: There are no specific studies done in pediatric patients. Safety and efficacy of testosterone gel use in children are not established.
• Geriatric: Studies show that using this product in the elderly does not limit its usefulness or effectiveness. Nonetheless, it should be used with caution when it comes to older patients since they are more prone to blood vessel problems, prostate problems, and heart disease.
• Pregnancy: Studies done in animals demonstrate positive evidence that using this drug is harmful to the unborn fetus. Avoid using this drug if you may become pregnant or are planning to get pregnant; the risk of using it outweighs any benefits this medicine offer. 
• Breastfeeding: Although there are no adequate studies in lactating mothers that determine potential risk in an infant when breastfeeding, the potential benefits should be weighed against the risks before taking this medication. 

• Drug Interactions: Certain medicines have adverse effects when used together. Nevertheless, it is still possible to take other medicines when taking this drug. Make sure to inform your doctor about other drugs you are taking, so that alterations and precautions will be made if necessary.

  Using this with certain medicines needs utmost caution because the combination may result in certain side effects. Before taking this drug, talk to your doctor about possible interactions if you are taking other medications, both prescription and over-the-counter, especially Bupropion , Anisindione, Dasabuvir, Dicumarol, Protein-Bound Phenprocoumon, Paclitaxel, Paclitaxel, or Warfarin.

• Other Medical Problems: Using this drug may become altered if certain medical conditions are present. Inform your doctor if any medical problems are present. Especially pulmonary embolism, deep vein thrombosis, diabetes, enlarged prostate, heart attack, hypercalcemia, hyperlipidemia, lung disease, breathing problems, and many others.

To use Natesto properly, you must follow all instructions given by your doctor. Testing your testosterone levels may be required by your doctor before starting using this medicine, as well as throughout the course of treatment.

This gel is used only in the nose. Never get the product into the eyes, skin, or any other area. Rinse off right away if it happens. When using the nasal gel for the first time, priming the pump is necessary. To prime the pump, hold the pump over the sink, turn the bottle upside down and pump slowly for about 10 times.

If any of the testosterone gel comes out while priming, discard and rinse down the drain with water. Clean the tip of the pump using a clean, dry tissue. If any of the product gets in contact with your skin, wash it thoroughly using warm water and soap.

To use, gently blow the nose to make sure the nostrils are clear. Look in the mirror and insert the pump tip into your left nostril, gently tilt the bottle and allow it to touch the sidewalls of your nostril, ensuring the product is applied properly.

Repeat the steps in your right nostril. Wipe the tip with a clean, dry tissue to clean it. Put the cap back on. Pinch your nose to press the nostrils together, gently rub to allow the drug to get absorbed. Avoid sniffing or blowing your nose for at least 1 hour after using testosterone nasal gel.

Dosing

The dosage of this drug generally depends on the patient’s requirements. This dosage instruction is only the average dosage for this drug. Follow your doctor’s advice even if your dosage is different than what is listed below.

For hormone replacement in adults, apply 1 pump or 11 mg in each nostril, to be administered 3 times a day with 6-8 hours interval.

Missed Dose

Take the missed dose as soon as possible. In case it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one and follow your regular dosing schedule. Never take double doses.

Storage

Keep the medicine in an airtight container at normal room temperature. Keep it away from direct light, heat, and moisture. Do not let it freeze. Keep the medicine out of children’s reach.

Throw away any outdated medicine or medicine that are not in use. Keep the medicine in its original package until needed.

Before using Natesto, there are some precautions you must take. Regular checkups are important while under treatment to monitor your progress and see if the medicine is working properly. To check for unwanted effects, your doctor may request for blood and urine tests. Do not use other medicines that are administered through the nose while using this drug, unless your doctor tells you otherwise.

Serious birth defects can occur when a pregnant woman comes in contact with this medicine. Inform your doctor if your sexual partner is expecting a child.

Nasal problems may take place while using this medicine. If you experience congestion, runny nose, nosebleeds, sneezing, nasal scabbing, discomfort, or dryness during treatment, inform your doctor right away. Blood clotting problems may occur while using this drug. It may also increase your risk for stroke.

Inform your doctor right away in case your child or female partner experience male-like changes in the body, such as facial hair growth, a significant increase in acne, and a deeper voice, as well as enlarged penis or clitoris, increased sexual desire, early growth of pubic hair, bone problems, and aggressive behavior.

While not all people taking Natesto may suffer from these side effects, you may need to call your doctor if any of these are present:

• Headache
• Discomfort in the nose
• Muscle aches
• Fever
• Sore throat
• Unusual tiredness or weakness
• Stuffy or a runny nose
• Bloody nose
• Chills
• Body aches or pain
• Cough
• Ear congestion
• Difficulty with breathing
• Tightness of the chest
• Pain or tenderness around the eyes and cheekbones
• Loss of voice
• Sneezing

Some of the side effects may take place and may not need special medical attention and usually go away as the body adjusts to the medicine during treatment. Some patients may experience other side effects not listed above.

If you want to report side effects, you may do so by calling the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.