Abstract
Background:Female sexual interest and arousal disorder (FSIAD) is the most prevalent sexual dysfunction in postmenopausal women.
Objective:To systematically review and summarize the existing evidence on the efficacy and safety of testosterone, mainly in transdermal formulations, for the treatment of FSIAD in postmenopausal women.
Method:A systematic review was conducted, including randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses. The eligibility of 105 articles was assessed, and 13 were ultimately included in the synthesis following the PRISMA procedure.
Results:Compared with placebo, testosterone was associated with significant improvements in the frequency of satisfactory sexual activity, orgasm, sexual desire, and personal distress related to low desire. Most adverse events were mild and well tolerated. No data indicated severe short-term adverse effects, although long-term safety data remain limited.
Conclusion:The short-term efficacy in improving sexual function and safety of testosterone (especially transdermal) in naturally or surgically menopausal women with FSIAD, either with or without estrogen +/- progestogen hormone therapy, has been demonstrated in this systematic review. Testosterone use was associated with an increase in androgenic adverse effects such as acne or hair growth, but was not associated with any serious adverse effects.
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