12 February 2007
Monash University launches a new research study today investigating how testosterone can treat postmenopausal women suffering from the loss of libido.
The researchers are seeking naturally postmenopausal women between 40 and 70 years old from Melbourne to participate in the study.
Testosterone patches have been developed to treat women who suffer from loss of libido following surgical menopause (removal of the ovaries) and have been approved for the treatment of hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in Europe.
Last year, testosterone patches gained European Marketing Authorisation by the EMEA (European Medicines Agency) so could shortly be available on prescription in Europe. Much of the research undertaken to support the approval of this new treatment option for women was undertaken by Professor Susan Davis and her team in the Women's Health Program at Monash University.
"This is a major milestone in women's health as it is the first time an effective treatment option to help women with lowered sexual function has been approved," said Professor Davis, Director of the Monash University National Health and Medical Research Council Centre of Clinical Research Excellence in Women's Health.
"We are seeking naturally postmenopausal women aged 40 to 70 to be part of a new research project, examining the impact of testosterone patches on libido. This is a significant issue in women's health and we hope to gain new data to help determine the future use of testosterone therapy for women who are naturally postmenopausal," Professor Davis said.
Professor Davis hopes to conduct the research this year, provided sufficient participants can be found for the study.
Women interested in participating in the study have to be in general good health and can find out more information by visiting the Women's Health Program website.
For media enquiries please contact Jocelyn Hunter: (03) 9902 0256 or 0408 527 092
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