Compare Androderm vs. Fortesta

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, ratings, and more.

Androderm (Testosterone Patch)

Prescription only

Fortesta (testosterone)

Prescription only

Treats low testosterone.

The testosterone patch is a topical form of hormone replacement that doesn't affect people you come in contact with, but it can cause skin irritation so you have to rotate its position every night.

Treats low testosterone.

Fortesta (testosterone) is a convenient topical form of testosterone hormone replacement, but it can be spread to another person if skin-to-skin contact occurs.

Upsides

The testosterone patch doesn't have to be removed when you're having sex or if you're showering or bathing.
The testosterone patch prevents other people around you from coming in contact with testosterone, unlike other topical forms such as gels.
The testosterone patch only has to be placed once each night.

Fortesta (testosterone) is an effective and convenient form of testosterone.
It is easily used. You apply it to your thighs like a lotion.
Putting Fortesta (testosterone) on your thighs makes it less likely that you'll transfer the medication to other people around you.
Fortesta (testosterone) is available as a cheaper generic form.

Downsides

Not available in generic.
You have to be careful to rotate the testosterone patch to a different part of your body each night.
Can cause skin irritation.
Has to be removed before you have an MRI.
The patch can become loose if you do heavy exercise or sweat a lot.

You have to wait at least 2 hours after applying Fortesta (testosterone) before you can swim or bathe, otherwise your body won't absorb the full amount of the medication.
Fortesta (testosterone) does not need to be dose adjusted if you have liver or kidney problems.

Used for