Study of Transdermal Testosterone Patches in Naturally Menopausal Women With Low Libido

Naturally menopausal women with hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) were randomized into a 52-week, multicenter, double-blind (DB), parallel-group, placebo-controlled study. Patients were stratified based on presence/absence of uterus and randomized to receive placebo or testosterone transdermal system. Patients had to maintain a stable dose of estrogen/progestin throughout the study. Patients who completed the first 52 weeks of the study were given the opportunity to participate in year 2-4 open-label (active treatment) study extension which was added to the protocol by amendment. Safety was assessed by adverse events, lipids, serum chemistry with hepatic, renal and carbohydrate metabois in evaluation, coagulation testing, and hermatology. Physical exam including clinical assessments of facial hair and acne were monitored.

Inclusion criteria

Eligible women must:

• Be 40-70 years old and in generally good health
• Be post-menopausal with no spontaneous periods for 1 year
• Be receiving a stable dose of hormone replacement therapy for at least 3 months prior to screening with the intention of maintaining that regimen.
• Be, in her own judgment, in a stable, monogamous sexual relationship that is perceived to be secure and communicative, for at least one year prior to study entry
• Meet the criteria for having hypoactive sexual desire disorder

Exclusion criteria

Eligible women must not:

• Have received androgen therapy at any time during the past 3 months (during the past 7 months if therapy was an investigational implantable product)
• Be experiencing any chronic or acute life stress relating to any major life change
• Be experiencing depression and/or receiving medication for such illness or disorder
• Have current severe skin problems (such as severe or cystic acne) or allergy to adhesives (like the ones in bandages)
• Have had a major illness, active gall bladder disease, or gynecological or breast surgery within the last 6 months
• Have a history of breast, endometrial, or other gynecological cancer at any time before study participation or other cancer within the last 5 years
• Have diabetes, a history of cerebrovascular disease, thromboembolic disorders, heart attack, or angina at any time before study participation or thrombophlebitis within the last 5 years
• Have abnormal laboratory test results upon initial screening for this study
• Have previously participated in a clinical trial within 30 days or received an investigational medication within 30 days