Testosterone is an androgen involved in female libido, bone density, and muscle mass. In women, therapeutic use primarily focuses on treating Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD) in postmenopausal individuals, where it can improve sexual function. Its role as a general healthspan intervention in women, beyond specific deficiency symptoms, lacks robust evidence and is not an approved indication.
Verdict
Targeted for HSDD; not a general healthspan intervention for women.
HEALTHSPAN IMPACT
Moderate
RISK LEVEL
Moderate
EVIDENCE GRADE
A
MONTHLY COST
$50 - $200
Protocol
- Transdermal gels or creams are typically applied daily at very low doses (e.g., 0.5-1.0 mg/day) to the skin, aiming for physiological female levels.
- Subcutaneous pellets containing testosterone may be implanted every 3-6 months, releasing a consistent low dose.
Flags
- Potential for virilization, including hirsutism, acne, voice deepening, and clitoromegaly, especially with supra-physiological dosing.
- Potential adverse effects on lipid profiles (e.g., decreased HDL).
- Not recommended in women with hormone-sensitive cancers (e.g., breast cancer).
- Oral testosterone formulations are associated with significant hepatic toxicity and are generally not used in women.