Androgel Is a Prescription Testosterone Gel Used to Treat Low Testosterone (Hypogonadism) in Adult Men

If you've been diagnosed with low testosterone — or you think you might have it — you've probably come across the name Androgel. It's one of the most widely prescribed testosterone replacement products in the United States, and it's been around for over two decades.

This guide covers everything you need to know about Androgel in 2026: what it is, what it's used for, how to take it, who shouldn't use it, and how much it costs.

What Is Androgel?

Androgel is a brand-name prescription medication containing testosterone in a clear, colorless topical gel. It's manufactured by AbbVie Inc. and was first approved by the FDA for testosterone replacement therapy in adult men with hypogonadism.

Key facts:

• Generic name: Testosterone topical gel
• Drug class: Androgens and anabolic steroids
• Controlled substance: Schedule III (CIII) — requires a prescription and is regulated by the DEA
• Available strengths: AndroGel 1% (packets and pump) and AndroGel 1.62% (pump)
• Generic available: Yes — generic testosterone gel 1.62% is available and significantly cheaper

What Is Androgel Used For?

Androgel is FDA-approved for testosterone replacement therapy in adult men who have low or no testosterone due to certain medical conditions:

• Primary hypogonadism — The testes don't produce enough testosterone due to conditions like Klinefelter syndrome, undescended testes, testicular injury, or infection (mumps orchitis).
• Hypogonadotropic hypogonadism — The brain (specifically the hypothalamus or pituitary gland) doesn't signal the testes to make testosterone. Causes include tumors, surgery, radiation, or genetic conditions.

It is not approved for age-related testosterone decline alone (sometimes called "low T"), though some doctors do prescribe it for this purpose based on clinical judgment and confirmed low levels.

For more on how Androgel works in your body, see our guide: How Does Androgel Work?

How Is Androgel Taken?

Androgel is applied once daily to clean, dry, intact skin. Here's how:

Application Steps

1. Apply to the shoulders, upper arms, and/or abdomen. Do not apply to the penis, scrotum, or damaged skin.
2. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water immediately after applying.
3. Allow the gel to dry for at least 5 minutes before getting dressed.
4. Cover the application area with a short-sleeve t-shirt to prevent secondary exposure to others.
5. Do not shower, swim, or bathe for at least 2 hours (1% formulation) or 5 hours (1.62% formulation) after applying.

Dosing

• AndroGel 1%: Starting dose is 50 mg (5 g of gel) once daily. Can be adjusted to 25 mg or 100 mg based on blood testosterone levels.
• AndroGel 1.62%: Starting dose is 40.5 mg (2 pump actuations) once daily. Can be adjusted from 20.25 mg to 81 mg based on blood work.

Your doctor will check your testosterone levels 2–4 weeks after starting and adjust the dose as needed. The goal is to get your testosterone into the normal range (typically 300–1,000 ng/dL).

Who Should Not Take Androgel?

Androgel is not safe for everyone. You should not use it if you have:

• Known or suspected prostate cancer
• Male breast cancer
• An allergy to testosterone or any ingredients in the gel

Androgel should never be used by:

• Women who are or may become pregnant — Testosterone can cause serious harm to a developing fetus
• Breastfeeding women
• Anyone under 18 years old

Use with caution if you have:

• Heart disease or a history of heart attack or stroke
• Liver or kidney disease
• Diabetes (testosterone may lower blood sugar, requiring medication adjustments)
• Sleep apnea
• A history of blood clots (DVT or pulmonary embolism)

Important: Androgel carries an FDA boxed warning about secondary exposure. Women and children who come into contact with treated skin can absorb testosterone, which can cause serious effects. Always wash hands after applying and keep application sites covered.

For a full breakdown of side effects, see our Androgel side effects guide.

How Much Does Androgel Cost?

Androgel's cost varies significantly depending on whether you're buying brand-name or generic, and whether you have insurance:

Brand-Name Androgel

• Cash price: $720 to $800+ for AndroGel 1.62% pump (75–88g supply). Some pharmacies charge over $1,100.
• With insurance: Copays vary widely. Many plans require prior authorization and may require you to try generic first (step therapy).
• AbbVie savings card: Commercially insured patients may save up to $100 per month with AbbVie's manufacturer savings card. Not valid with Medicare, Medicaid, or other government insurance.

Generic Testosterone Gel

• With discount coupons: As low as $85 to $150 per month through GoodRx, SingleCare, or other discount programs.
• Without coupons: Generic retail averages around $450 per month.
• With insurance: Most plans cover generic testosterone gel, though prior authorization is usually required (two morning blood tests confirming testosterone below 300 ng/dL).

Patient Assistance

If you're uninsured or can't afford your medication, AbbVie's Patient Assistance Foundation may provide Androgel at no cost. Call 1-800-222-6885 or visit AbbVie's patient assistance website to apply.

For a complete breakdown of savings options, see our guide to saving money on Androgel.

Final Thoughts

Androgel is an effective and well-established treatment for low testosterone in men. It's easy to use, available in generic form, and covered by most insurance plans with prior authorization. But it's also a controlled substance with real risks — including secondary exposure to women and children, cardiovascular concerns, and effects on fertility.

If you think you might have low testosterone, the first step is getting blood work through a qualified doctor. Our guide on finding a doctor who prescribes Androgel can help you get started.

Once you have a prescription, Medfinder can help you find a pharmacy with Androgel in stock near you.