Testosterone therapy in women: its role in the management of hypoactive sexual desire disorder.

Disorders of sexual dysfunction occur in nearly half of women during their life, and hypoactive sexual desire disorder accounts for most of those complaints. Although the relationship between low endogenous testosterone levels and sexual desire disorders in women has not been empirically established, clinical trials have shown that exogenous testosterone therapy improves arousability, sexual desire and fantasy, frequency of sexual activity and orgasm, and satisfaction and pleasure from the sexual act. Its therapeutic role in bone mineral density, fatigue, well-being and hot flashes requires more study before specific recommendations can be made. Potential adverse effects of testosterone therapy include hirsutism, acne and deepening of the voice along with changes in lipid profiles. While less well understood, concern after increased risks for breast cancer and cardiovascular events has been raised about this therapy. Testosterone therapy is available in various formulations; the most commonly used are oral and transdermal, including patches, gels, creams and ointments.