A comparative permeation/release study of different testosterone gel formulations.

The major indication for testosterone (T) treatment is male hypogonadism that is characterized by low serum T concentrations. Although a recently developed hydroalcoholic gel, Androgel, containing 1% T addresses many of the problems associated with the more conventional formulations, the bioavailability of T is only 10% requiring 5 to 10 g of gel to be applied daily. The present study was performed to investigate the effect of isopropyl alcohol (IPA) content as a penetration enhancer based on its ability to prevent skin dryness and in turn to increase T permeation from hydroalcoholic gels.