Researchers link testosterone use in menopausal women to increased heart disease risk

OPA WIRE, Nov 2 (OPA) — Medical experts are raising alarms over the rising popularity of testosterone therapy among menopausal women, citing potential cardiovascular risks and a lack of clinical evidence for its efficacy. While celebrities have popularized the treatment as a remedy for low mood and cognitive decline, recent data indicates that patients using the hormone are eight times more likely to develop heart disease compared to those on traditional hormone replacement therapy (HRT).

A study of 244 women published in the British Medical Journal found insufficient evidence that testosterone effectively treats brain fog or cognitive impairment. Despite this, demand for the treatment in England has surged 15-fold over the last decade. Current UK guidelines restrict testosterone use to treating low sexual desire, yet many patients are accessing the medication through private clinics that may bypass established safety protocols.

Because no testosterone products are specifically licensed for women in the UK, clinicians often prescribe small, off-label doses of products intended for men. This practice complicates accurate dosing and increases the risk of side effects, including acne, hair loss, and voice changes. Experts warn that excessive testosterone can elevate blood pressure and 'bad' cholesterol, further compounding the risk of stroke and heart attack.

Medical professionals emphasize that standard HRT, consisting of oestrogen and progesterone, remains the primary treatment for most menopause symptoms. With long-term cardiovascular effects still largely unknown, researchers urge caution, particularly for women with pre-existing metabolic conditions. The medical community continues to debate the necessity of testosterone, noting that clinical trials have only demonstrated symptom relief in approximately one in ten patients.