Androgen therapy in women: what we think we know.
To date there is no clinical indication for the use of testosterone in women and long-term safety data is lacking. This minireview examines androgen therapy in women. Issues relating to research into sexual function and androgens in women are discussed. Androgen physiology is described and studies examining endogenous androgens in women cited. A Cochrane review found that adding testosterone to a hormone therapy regimen has beneficial effects on sexual function in postmenopausal women and subsequent studies have supported the role of testosterone in sexual function and well-being. However studies on safety and efficacy of testosterone beyond 24 weeks are lacking.
Drillich
Ann
A
Women's Health Program, Department of Medicine, Central and Eastern Clinical School, Monash University, Alfred Hospital, Prahran, Vic. 3181, Australia. Ann.Drillich@med.monash.edu.au <Ann.Drillich@med.monash.edu.au>
Davis
Susan R
SR
D000368:Aged; D000728:Androgens / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000502:physiology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008593:Menopause / Q000187:drug effects / Q000502:physiology; D008875:Middle Aged; D012725:Sexual Behavior / Q000187:drug effects / Q000502:physiology; D013739:Testosterone / Q000009:adverse effects; D045165:Testosterone Congeners / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use
D000728:Androgens; D045165:Testosterone Congeners; D013739:Testosterone