International Society for the Study of Women's Sexual Health Clinical Practice Guideline for the Use of Systemic Testosterone for Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder in Women

The document provides guidelines for the use of systemic testosterone in treating Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD) in women. It suggests that systemic testosterone can be an effective treatment for premenopausal women with HSDD, but it should be used with caution due to potential side effects. The guidelines emphasize the importance of individualized treatment plans and regular monitoring of testosterone levels and side effects. Testosterone therapy is recommended for postmenopausal women with HSDD, and limited data also support its use in late reproductive age premenopausal women. However, testosterone therapy is not approved for women by most regulatory agencies, making prescribing and proper dosing challenging. The document also discusses the role of testosterone in women's sexual health, particularly in relation to HSDD. It concludes by stating that while systemic transdermal testosterone therapy is recommended for postmenopausal and late reproductive age women with HSDD, long-term safety has not been established. More clinical trial evidence demonstrating longer and more robust testosterone safety data is needed for regulatory approval of testosterone preparations specifically indicated and designed for women.