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Process and rules: how care works

Care follows the same steps for everyone: a call with a care coordinator, a lab panel at a lab near you, a visit with a licensed provider at a local office or by secure video where available, and a plan only if your provider decides treatment is appropriate. Testosterone is a controlled substance, so federal and state rules affect how it can be prescribed. The current federal telemedicine flexibilities run through December 31, 2026 under the fourth temporary extension (90 FR 61301). The guides in this topic explain the steps and what the rules mean for patients.

Guides in this topic

Each guide lists its sources at the end.

Important safety information

Testosterone has known risks, and a licensed provider reviews them with you before any decision.

Testosterone is FDA-approved for men with low testosterone caused by certain medical conditions. Its safety and effectiveness for low testosterone due to aging alone have not been established. Testosterone can raise blood pressure and red blood cell count, reduce sperm production and fertility, and requires monitoring of the prostate and blood levels. Your provider will review the benefits and risks and monitor you with regular labs.

Testosterone is a controlled substance because it can be misused. Abuse and dependence have been reported, mostly at doses above those prescribed. Take it only as your provider directs.

Testosterone is a Schedule III controlled substance. Depending on your state, and on federal telemedicine rules that are currently set to change after December 31, 2026, an in-person exam may be required before or during treatment.

Read the Important Safety Information for testosterone.

How these guides are reviewed

Every guide is checked against primary sources before it is published, and it is updated when the evidence or the rules change. Read our editorial and medical review policy.

This page is general health information and not medical advice. If you have a medical emergency, call 911.

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