USE OF TESTOSTERONE IN WOMEN WITH DECREASED OR LOST SEXUAL INTEREST/AROUSAL

Abstract

Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) are common problems that affect more than 1/3 of women at some stage
in their lives. Androgens are important modulators of female sexual function. Low levels of total and free testosterone, androstenedione and S-DHEA are associated with lower self-reported sexual desire and there is evidence that lowdose testosterone treatment is effective in women with hypoactive sexual desire (DSH) and androgen deficiency. The aim of this study was to review the indications for testosterone use by women with sexual dysfunction, doses, routes of administration and the most common side effects of the drug. This is a literature review, with papers published between 2000 and 2019, in SciELO, LILACS and PubMed databases. Indications for androgen use in women are restricted. The treatment is off-label and should preferably be performed with testosterone transdermal gels, creams or patches. There is no established safety in treatments for periods longer than 24 weeks. Patients with symptoms of androgen deficiency and indicated for treatment should undergo regular laboratory review to assess the possible adverse effects of androgen excess.