Testosterone gel is normally used for men with low levels of the male hormone. However, women also have testosterone. Recently, interest has surged in using testosterone gel for women with low testosterone levels to treat decreased sex drive. Testosterone gel may, if overused, cause other effects that may not be as desirable. Testosterone gel is not approved for use in women by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration; the gel is used off-label, meaning its use for women has not been adequately tested in clinical trials.
Increased Libido
Levels of testosterone fall by about 50 percent in women in their 40s compared to women in their 20s, according to physician and radio talk show host Gabe Mirkin, M.D., on his website DrMirkin.com. This may result in a decreased interest in sex. Taking a small amount of testosterone gel each week -- no more than 2.5 g according to Dr. Mirkin -- may increase sex drive without causing any of the less desirable side effects of testosterone supplements. Testosterone therapy does increase sex drive, Mary Gellenberg, M.D., reports on MayoClinic.com, but only if estrogen levels are also sufficient. Women who use testosterone supplements should take estrogen supplements as well if they have low estrogen levels, she advises. Women with a history of breast or uterine cancer, as well as women with liver or heart disease, should not take testosterone supplements, Gellenberg adds.
Skin and Hair Effects
Testosterone gel may cause women to develop more masculine skin characteristics, with skin becoming more oily and prone to acne. The Jean Hailes Foundation for Women's Health warns that women who already have problems with acne should understand that applying testosterone gel could worsen acne. Hair thinning or loss of head hair similar to male pattern baldness may occur in women using testosterone gel. Hair may also grow in typical male patterns on the body, including the face.
Sex Organ Effects
Virilization of female sex organs may result in enlargement of the clitoris, a symptom that may not be reversible, Drugs.com cautions. The breast and uterus may shrink, and normal menstruation may cease, reports the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library.
Voice Deepening
Testosterone gel may cause a woman's voice to deepen, according to the Merck Manual.
