The National Institute of Health Research (NIHR) is seeking funding for potential research on the risks and benefits of testosterone for menopausal women.
The trial, which is being proposed by a team of clinicians, researchers and women in menopause, would compare testosterone treatments to placebos in an attempt to gauge the hormone’s effect on menopausal symptoms which may include concentration, cognition, energy and mood.
Consultant gynaecologist and researcher Dr Haitham Hamoda has explained that there have been many anecdotal reports of testosterone improving menopause symptoms, but he says, “I think it’s important, whatever the study shows, to get an answer that goes further than anecdotal feedback. Medicine and medical treatments should always be evidence-based, and that’s what we want to prioritise.”
He continues, “Our preliminary surveys have shown huge interest from both women and practitioners in the potential results of this study – there is great interest in the area.”
The study, if accepted, would begin in 2024, with results expected in 2025.
