Effect of intravaginal dehydroepiandrosterone (Prasterone) on libido and sexual dysfunction in postmenopausal women

• DOI: 10.1097/gme.0b013e31819e85c6
• Publication Date: 2009-08-29T07:14:00Z
• Authors: Fernand Labrie; David Archer; Céline Bouchard; Michel Fortier; Leonello Cusan; José-Luis Gomez; Ginette Girard; Mira Baron; Normand Ayotte; Michèle Moreau; Robert Dubé; Isabelle Côté; Claude Labrie; Lyne Lavoie; Louise Berger; Lucy Gilbert; Céline Martel; John Balser
• Keywords: Orgasm; Vaginal atrophy; Sexual arousal; Decreased Libido

The objective of this study was to provide evidence that the transformation DHEA into both androgens and/or estrogens locally in cells three layers vagina (epithelium, lamina propria, and muscularis) would have effects greater impact, including on sexual function, than only superficial epithelial as achieved with estrogens.This prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase III clinical trial has evaluated effect daily local intravaginal application Prasterone (dehydroepiandrosterone; DHEA) for 12 weeks domains dysfunction, namely, desire/interest, arousal, orgasm, pain at activity, 216 postmenopausal women moderate severe symptoms vaginal atrophy.A time- dose-dependent improvement four function observed. At 12-week time interval, 1.0% dose led, compared placebo, 49% (P = 0.0061) 23% 0.0257) improvements desire Menopause Specific Quality Life Abbreviated Sex Function questionnaires, respectively. Compared arousal/sensation domain improved by 68% 0.006), arousal/lubrication 39% 0.0014), orgasm 75% 0.047), dryness during intercourse 57% 0.0001).By a action vagina, applied doses which serum steroids remain well within normal values exerts relatively potent beneficial all aspects dysfunction. Such data indicate combined androgenic/estrogenic stimulation important without systemic brain other extravaginal tissues.