How much testosterone from a Transdermal patch of 2.5 mg is actually absorbed?

Is it true that Testosterone is not only essential for libido, but rather also for energy, concentration, memory, vitality, production of red blood cells (energy), and for a feeling of well-being (or depression)?

Also: Does any of the salve-like content contained in the bubble of a Transdermal patch actually seep through the membrane of the patch, or is the patient supposed to puncture the membrane before applying it? Also: Can these patches be left on for more than the suggested 24 hours; would this increase the amount of testosterone which is actually absorbed? Also: After the patch is worn for 24 hours, can the patient puncture the bubble, squeeze out the salve, which contains the testosterone, and rub it into the skin? Also: How much of the testosterone which is absorbed will be immediately bound with blood proteins, which will render it ineffective?

Thanks for your help, Joe Conrad

From what I have read, the amount of testosterone absorbed can vary. It depends if you are using a scrotal patch or a patch that goes on your back or legs. The scrotal skin can absorb up to 5 times more testosterone than the other patches, but it can cause other issues.

There are two kinds of testosterone available for skin formulation, one is the patch and another is a gel that is applied to the upper chest and arms. I don’t know which one you have, it could be one or the other. You should talk to your doctor to find out the appropriate application of your medicine. Also, if you are concerned that you aren’t getting enough testosterone from the 2.5 mg patch, maybe your doctor can prescribe a more concentrated dose. I think there are 3 mg to 10 mg doses, but you should NOT play around with multiple doses on your own. Ask your doctor.

The transdermal patch does not get metabolized the same way an oral dose of testosterone would. First, you avoid the stomach enzymes and the primary metabolic breakdown. In the future, you may be able to obtain a "buccal" patch (attaches to the inside of the cheek) or a sublingual version (under the tongue) which might have even better effectiveness.

Best wishes to you and your red blood cells!

One Response to “How much testosterone from a Transdermal patch of 2.5 mg is actually absorbed?”

  • Elizabeth P:

    From what I have read, the amount of testosterone absorbed can vary. It depends if you are using a scrotal patch or a patch that goes on your back or legs. The scrotal skin can absorb up to 5 times more testosterone than the other patches, but it can cause other issues.

    There are two kinds of testosterone available for skin formulation, one is the patch and another is a gel that is applied to the upper chest and arms. I don’t know which one you have, it could be one or the other. You should talk to your doctor to find out the appropriate application of your medicine. Also, if you are concerned that you aren’t getting enough testosterone from the 2.5 mg patch, maybe your doctor can prescribe a more concentrated dose. I think there are 3 mg to 10 mg doses, but you should NOT play around with multiple doses on your own. Ask your doctor.

    The transdermal patch does not get metabolized the same way an oral dose of testosterone would. First, you avoid the stomach enzymes and the primary metabolic breakdown. In the future, you may be able to obtain a "buccal" patch (attaches to the inside of the cheek) or a sublingual version (under the tongue) which might have even better effectiveness.

    Best wishes to you and your red blood cells!
    References :
    http://www.consumerreports.org/mg/drug-reports/testosterone-transdermal.htm?view=Print
    http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/medmaster/a601118.html

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