Testosterone Intramuscular Injection in Postmenopausal Depressed Women with Sexual Dysfunction: A Case Report

Lee, Moon Soo; Ko, Young Hoon; Joe, Sook Haeng

Abstract

Androgens are produced in women by adrenal glands and ovaries. They become the major source of estrogen for women and have specific effects in many tissues including brain. Circulating levels of androgens decrease with aging. Androgen insufficiency in women may be associated with a number of symptoms including sexual dysfunction, depressed mood and a decline in quality of life. Currently several studies suggest that beneficial effects of testosterone on sexual function, mood and well-being in women. We reported a case of long acting depot testosterone injection in middle-aged woman who underwent menopause 3 years ago. A patient was receiving antidepressants as she had depressive symptoms such as irritability, lack of drive, withdrawal from social relationship and depressed mood. Depressed mood was more improved but she complained decreased sexual functioning especially in sexual desire. Total testosterone level fell in the low normal female range. After 4 weeks of intramuscular injection, evaluations were performed. She reported definite improvement in sexual functions, especially sexual desire, excitement. In quality of life assessment, she showed favorable changes in psychological and social domains. This case report supports adjunctive testosterone may influence sexual dysfunction in some postmenopausal women. Further well-designed studies are needed to evaluate the possible influences of testosterone on female sexual dysfunction.