What is the role of testosterone as part of hormone replacement therapy?
Testosterone has been used as a component of hormone replacement therapy in certain circumstances. This component is usually used in women who have decreased sexual drive, also known as decreased libido. Decreased sexual drive in women may be due to decreased testosterone levels. The ovaries normally produce small amounts of testosterone even after menopause. Women who have had their ovaries removed surgically may benefit greatly from replacement of testosterone. Testosterone can be replaced in two forms, as a pill in conjunction with estrogen, or as an injection. It has been shown that testosterone may cause an adverse effect on cholesterol levels. Therefore, testosterone supplementation should be used only on an individual basis.
