Testosterone Replacement Therapy for Sexual Symptoms

Background: Several data have clearly shown that the endocrine system-and androgens in particular-play a pivotal role in regulating all the steps involved in the male sexual response cycle. Accordingly, testosterone (T) replacement therapy (TRT) represents a cornerstone of pharmacologic management of hypogonadal subjects with erectile dysfunction. Aim: The aim of this review is to summarize all the available evidence supporting the role of T in the regulation of male sexual function and to provide a comprehensive summary regarding the sexual outcomes of TRT in patients complaining of sexual dysfunction. Methods: A comprehensive PubMed literature search was performed. Main Outcome Measure: Specific analysis of preclinical and clinical evidence on the role of T in regulating male sexual function was performed. In addition, available evidence supporting the role of TRT on several sexual outcomes was separately investigated. Results: T represents an important modulator of male sexual response function. However, the role of T in sexual functioning is less evident in epidemiologic studies because other factors, including organic, relational, and intrapsychic determinants, can orchestrate their effect independently from the state of androgens. Nonetheless, it is clear that TRT can ameliorate several aspects of sexual functioning, including libido, erectile function, and overall sexual satisfaction. Conversely, data on the role of TRT in improving orgasmic function are more conflicting. Finally, further controlled studies are needed to investigate the combination of TRT and PDE5 inhibitors. Conclusion: Positive effects of TRT are observed only in the presence of a hypogonadal status (ie, total T < 12 nmol/L). In addition, TRT alone can be effective in restoring only milder forms of erectile dysfunction, whereas the combined therapy with other drugs is required when more severe vascular damage is present. Copyright (C) 2018, International Society for Sexual Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.