Prescribing Testosterone And DHEA: The Role Of Androgens In Women

December 2020 in “ Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine ”

Taryn Smith, Pelin Batur

testosterone dehydroepiandrosterone androgens hormone therapy DHEA

TLDR Testosterone and DHEA can benefit women's health but must be prescribed carefully due to potential risks.

The article reviewed the physiological roles of androgens, specifically testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), in women, highlighting their impact on reproductive tissues, mood, cognition, breast health, bone density, muscle mass, and vascular function. It discussed the effects of these hormones and provided guidelines for androgen therapy, emphasizing the importance of understanding their benefits and potential risks. The review aimed to inform best-practice recommendations for prescribing these hormones to women, considering their significant influence on various bodily systems.

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Research cited in this study

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research Androgens and Androgen Receptor Action in Skin and Hair Follicles

100 citations , September 2017 in “Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology”

Male hormones and their receptors play a key role in hair loss and skin health, with potential new treatments being explored.

research Endocrine Evaluation of Hirsutism

29 citations , February 2017 in “International Journal of Women's Dermatology”

Women with excessive male-pattern hair growth should get a full hormone check-up to find and treat any underlying issues, considering both medical and emotional aspects.

research Androgen Therapy in Women: A Reappraisal: An Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline

251 citations , October 2014 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism”

The guidelines advise against using testosterone and DHEA in women for most conditions due to safety and effectiveness concerns, but suggest considering testosterone for postmenopausal women with low sexual desire.

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Checking vitamin and hormone levels is important for addressing hair loss, as deficiencies in vitamin D, zinc, and iron can affect hair growth. Treatments like finasteride, minoxidil, and vitamin supplements are used, but addressing deficiencies is crucial for effectiveness.

community Testosterone and Estradiol levels on 1 mg/day dutasteride

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