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Issues concerning androgen replacement therapy in postmenopausal women
1Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Nutrition, Mayo Clinic Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
Mayo Clinic Proceedings
|December 31, 1997
Summary
Menopause causes lower androgen levels, impacting bone health and quality of life. Androgen replacement therapy may offer benefits, but more research is needed to guide safe and effective clinical use.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Menopause Research
- Bone Metabolism
Background:
- Declining blood androgen levels are common in women experiencing natural or surgical menopause.
- These hormonal changes can negatively affect bone metabolism, psychosocial well-being, and sexuality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the potential benefits and risks of androgen replacement therapy in postmenopausal women.
- To identify gaps in current knowledge and guide future research.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of published literature on androgen replacement therapy.
- Analysis of data regarding effects on bone, lipid, and carbohydrate metabolism.
- Evaluation of impacts on sexuality and potential risks like neoplasms and virilization.
Main Results:
- Androgen replacement therapy shows potential benefits for postmenopausal women.
- Limited high-quality data currently exists to inform clinical decision-making.
- Potential risks include neoplasms and virilizing somatic changes.
Conclusions:
- Further well-designed, long-term studies are essential to establish the safety and efficacy of androgen replacement therapy.
- Physiologic dosing and comprehensive risk-benefit assessments are crucial for guiding therapy.