Where the evidence is
The one indication supported by randomised evidence and reflected in international consensus is hypoactive sexual desire dysfunction in postmenopausal women — distressing loss of sexual desire, assessed properly, after other causes have been addressed. For that indication, in that population, the trials show a modest but real benefit.
Where it is not
Consensus statements are explicit that there is insufficient evidence to recommend testosterone in women for fatigue, low mood, cognition, bone density, body composition or general wellbeing. Those are precisely the uses most heavily marketed. That gap between what is evidenced and what is sold is the single largest one in this field.
And the dose problem
There is no product approved for women at a female dose in most markets, so prescribing means using a male product at a fraction of its dose, or a compounded preparation. Overdosing produces acne, hair loss at the scalp with growth elsewhere, voice deepening and clitoral enlargement — and voice change may not fully reverse. Levels have to be monitored, kept in the female physiological range, and the therapy stopped if they are not.
Key points
- One evidenced indication: HSDD in postmenopausal women.
- Not evidenced for fatigue, mood, cognition, bone or body composition.
- Monitoring is mandatory; some virilising effects may not fully reverse.
AZZA Medical is not a medical provider and does not practice medicine. Medical services are provided exclusively by independently licensed physicians of our partner physician network and their affiliated professional entities.
Compounded drugs are not FDA-approved and have not been evaluated by FDA for safety or effectiveness.
This is not emergency care. AZZA Medical does not provide urgent or emergency medical services. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.