Concerns Rise Over Incorrect Testosterone Dosage For Women Treating Low Libido
Table of Contents
- 1. Concerns Rise Over Incorrect Testosterone Dosage For Women Treating Low Libido
- 2. The Growing Demand For Testosterone Therapy
- 3. Pharmac’s Ongoing Review and previous Decisions
- 4. Risks of Incorrect Dosage & Expert Concerns
- 5. The wider Context of Women’s Health
- 6. What are the risks and benefits of female-specific testosterone therapy in New Zealand?
- 7. New Zealand to Consider Funding Female‑Specific Testosterone Therapy After misuse of Men’s Gel
- 8. The Rise of ‘off-Label’ Testosterone Use in Women
- 9. Why Female-Specific Formulations Matter
- 10. The New Zealand Proposal: What’s Being Considered?
- 11. Potential Benefits of Appropriately Prescribed Testosterone Therapy for Women
- 12. Risks and Side Effects: A Realistic Perspective
- 13. Real-World examples & Emerging Research
A growing chorus of medical professionals in New Zealand is voicing apprehension about the widespread practice of prescribing testosterone, originally formulated for men, to women experiencing diminished sexual desire. The issue centers on the potential for overly high dosages and the lack of a funded, female-specific alternative. This situation is prompting calls for urgent action from the country’s pharmaceutical funding agency, Pharmac.
The Growing Demand For Testosterone Therapy
Testosterone, often associated with male progress, plays a vital role in female physiology as well.It’s increasingly being utilized to address Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD) in postmenopausal women,a condition impacting an estimated one in three women aged 40 to 64,according to recent studies. The treatment aims to restore hormonal balance and improve sexual function, alongside overall wellbeing.
Currently, men seeking testosterone replacement therapy in New Zealand have four funded product options available to them. However, women face a stark contrast, with no specifically funded medications designed for their needs. This gap has led many physicians to prescribe Testogel, a product designed for men, as a workaround, despite concerns regarding appropriate dosage.
Pharmac’s Ongoing Review and previous Decisions
Pharmac, the New Zealand government agency responsible for funding pharmaceuticals, has twice rejected applications to fund AndroFeme 1, a testosterone product specifically formulated for women.In 2024, the agency cited concerns about the eligibility criteria and equitable access, particularly for women hesitant to undergo diagnostic procedures related to HSDD.It also questioned the added benefit of AndroFeme 1 compared to using Testogel off-label.
A reassessment in 2025 led to a “no formal advice,” maintaining the original decision, but acknowledging the need for a female-specific product at an appropriate dosage to minimize potential harm. Data from February to November of the same year showed that 46 percent of Testogel prescriptions were issued to women,highlighting the extent of off-label use.
| Product | Formulation | Funding Status (New Zealand) |
|---|---|---|
| Testogel | Male-Formulated Testosterone | Funded for Men, Commonly Prescribed Off-Label to Women |
| AndroFeme 1 | Female-Formulated Testosterone | Currently Unfunded |
Risks of Incorrect Dosage & Expert Concerns
Endocrinologist Dr. Anna Fenton of Oxford Women’s Health emphasizes that there is limited research regarding how the female body metabolizes testosterone. She raises concerns about prescribing testosterone without initial and ongoing blood testing to monitor hormone levels. “Women are being prescribed this without the appropriate baseline testing without,frequently enough,follow-up blood testing to make sure the level is appropriate.”
Dr.Fenton warns that determining the correct dose of Testogel, dispensed as a gel, is challenging. She estimates that more than half of the women she treats who are prescribed Testogel exhibit excessively high testosterone levels, with one recent case showing levels 12 times the upper limit for women. Potential side effects include oily skin, acne, increased hair growth, and, in severe cases, irreversible changes to voice and genital structure.
A joint submission to Pharmac from Dr. Fenton and several other endocrinologists urges the agency to prioritize evidence-based, female-specific therapies and fund AndroFeme 1, cautioning against normalizing the use of male-formulated testosterone.Pharmaco, the manufacturer of Testogel, maintains that their product is specifically designed for men and not intended for use by women.
The wider Context of Women’s Health
Advocates like Jenna Scullin, director of Cala Clinic, argue that addressing female sexual dysfunction is often undervalued compared to men’s health concerns. Scullin notes that unlike men, who have multiple funded options for testosterone replacement, women currently have limited recourse. She stresses that low libido impacts a woman’s mental, social, and overall well-being significantly.
New Zealand’s availability of hormone replacement therapies, including estrogen patches, lags behind that of countries like Australia, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada. This situation underscores the need for increased investment in women’s health solutions.
Pharmac is scheduled to review AndroFeme 1’s application on Thursday, with a provisional recommendation expected within 30 days. The decision will have significant implications for countless women across the country seeking safe and effective treatment for low libido.
Disclaimer: This article provides general facts and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your treatment.
What are your thoughts on the availability of female-specific hormone therapies? Have you or someone you know been affected by this issue? Share your experiences and opinions in the comments below.
What are the risks and benefits of female-specific testosterone therapy in New Zealand?
New Zealand to Consider Funding Female‑Specific Testosterone Therapy After misuse of Men’s Gel
new Zealand’s healthcare system is poised to possibly fund female-specific testosterone therapy, a important shift prompted by increasing reports of women using compounded or inappropriately prescribed testosterone gels originally intended for men. This move addresses a growing need for safe and effective hormone therapy options tailored to female physiology, moving beyond the practice of adapting male formulations.
The Rise of ‘off-Label’ Testosterone Use in Women
For years, women seeking testosterone therapy – for conditions like hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD), fatigue related to menopause, or to improve energy levels – have often relied on testosterone prescribed ‘off-label’ or obtained through compounding pharmacies. Compounded testosterone, while offering customizable dosages, lacks the rigorous quality control and standardized dosing of commercially manufactured medications.
The recent surge in concern stems from several factors:
* Inaccurate Dosing: Men’s testosterone gels are formulated for significantly higher testosterone levels than typically required by women. Self-adjusting dosage or relying on generalized guidance can led to virilization – the progress of male characteristics – and other adverse effects.
* Lack of Specific Formulations: Existing gels aren’t optimized for female skin absorption or metabolic rates.
* Safety Concerns: The lack of standardized manufacturing processes in compounding pharmacies raises concerns about purity and consistency.
* Increased Awareness: Growing public discussion and medical literature highlighting the potential benefits and risks of testosterone therapy for women have driven demand.
Why Female-Specific Formulations Matter
Developing testosterone therapies specifically designed for women isn’t simply about convenience; it’s about safety and efficacy. Key differences necessitate a tailored approach:
* Lower Physiological Levels: women naturally have much lower testosterone levels than men.A precise dosage range is crucial to avoid unwanted side effects.
* hormonal interactions: Testosterone interacts differently with other hormones (estrogen, progesterone) in women compared to men.Formulations need to account for these complex interactions.
* Metabolic Differences: Women metabolize testosterone differently, impacting its duration of action and potential for side effects.
* Delivery Methods: Research suggests that transdermal gels may not be the optimal delivery method for all women, and alternative options like creams or buccal tablets are being explored.
The New Zealand Proposal: What’s Being Considered?
The New Zealand Ministry of Health is currently evaluating proposals for funding female-specific testosterone products. This evaluation process includes:
- Pharmacoeconomic Analysis: Assessing the cost-effectiveness of different formulations compared to existing treatment options.
- Clinical Evidence Review: Examining the available research on the benefits and risks of testosterone therapy for women, focusing on studies using female-specific formulations.
- equity Considerations: Ensuring equitable access to treatment for all women who could benefit, regardless of socioeconomic status or geographic location.
- Monitoring and Safety Protocols: Establishing robust systems for monitoring patients on testosterone therapy and managing potential side effects.
Currently, the focus is on formulations that offer lower, more precisely controlled doses and are manufactured to pharmaceutical standards.
Potential Benefits of Appropriately Prescribed Testosterone Therapy for Women
When administered correctly, testosterone therapy can offer significant benefits for certain women:
* Improved Libido: Addressing HSDD is a primary indication.
* Increased energy Levels: Combating fatigue, notably in postmenopausal women.
* Enhanced Mood: Some women report improvements in mood and cognitive function.
* Increased Muscle Mass & Bone Density: Testosterone plays a role in maintaining muscle mass and bone health.
* Improved Sense of Well-being: Many women report a general betterment in their quality of life.
It’s crucial to emphasize that testosterone therapy isn’t a ‘cure-all’ and isn’t appropriate for all women.
Risks and Side Effects: A Realistic Perspective
While the potential benefits are promising, it’s vital to acknowledge the potential risks:
* Virilization: The most concerning side effect, manifesting as deepening of the voice, clitoral enlargement, and increased facial hair.This is more likely with higher doses.
* Acne: Increased sebum production can lead to acne breakouts.
* Cholesterol Changes: Testosterone can effect cholesterol levels.
* Mood Swings: Some women may experience mood fluctuations.
* Cardiovascular Risks: The long-term cardiovascular effects of testosterone therapy in women are still being studied.
Regular monitoring by a qualified healthcare professional is essential to minimize these risks.
Real-World examples & Emerging Research
several countries are already exploring or have approved female-specific testosterone therapies.In the United States, the FDA approved Vyleesi (bremelanotide) for HSDD, a non-hormonal option, but demand for testosterone remains. Australia is also witnessing a similar trend of off-label use and growing calls for dedicated formulations.
Ongoing research is focused on:
* Optimizing Dosage: Identifying the optimal testosterone dosage for different indications and individual patient characteristics.
* Developing Novel Delivery Systems: Exploring
