Benefits and Risks of Testosterone Implants in Women: Systematic Literature Review

This systematic review evaluated the benefits and risks of testosterone implants in women, analyzing 79 publications. No randomized controlled trials were found, and the evidence from retrospective observational studies is of low quality. The use of testosterone implants was associated with improvements in sexual function and personal distress, but common adverse effects included acne, alopecia, hirsutism, erythrocytosis, extrusion, cellulitis/infection, and hematomas. The review concludes that the risks of testosterone implants in women outweigh the benefits, with potentially higher incidences of irreversible adverse effects than previously reported, highlighting the need for careful monitoring.