This subproject is one of many research subprojects utilizing the resources provided by a Center grant funded by NIH/NCRR. The subproject and investigator (PI) may have received primary funding from another NIH source, and thus could be represented in other CRISP entries. The institution listed is for the Center, which is not necessarily the institution for the investigator. Normally women produce testosterone in their ovaries even after menopause. Women who have had both ovaries removed by surgery usually have low testosterone levels which may contribute to reduced sexual function, muscle function and general sense of well being. The purpose of this study is to determine what the most appropriate dose of testosterone is to give to women who have had their ovaries removed before menopause and have low testosterone levels in their blood. The most appropriate dose of testosterone will be the amount of testosterone that maximizes the beneficial effects while minimizing side effects. We will do this by randomly assigning 140 women between the ages of 21 and 60 who have had their ovaries removed to four groups which receive either placebo or one of three doses of testosterone by weekly injections for 6 months (double blind.) Subjects will also be treated with an estrogen patch during the study. The effects of testosterone will be determined by measuring lean body tissue, muscle size, muscle strength and leg power, sexual function and brain function. We will also measure plasma lippids (cholesterol in the blood and some functions of insulin sensitivity (how the body handles sugar).
Showing the most recent 10 out of 476 publications
