Decreased libido is a probable adverse drug reaction of statin drugs, possibly related to low levels of testosterone caused by cholesterol depletion. - GreenMedInfo Summary

Abstract Title:

Is decreased libido associated with the use of HMG-CoA-reductase inhibitors?

Abstract Source:

Br J Clin Pharmacol. 2004 Sep ;58(3):326-8. PMID: 15327593

Abstract Author(s):

L de Graaf, A H P M Brouwers, W L Diemont

Article Affiliation:

Netherlands Pharmacovigilance Centre Lareb, Goudsbloemvallei 7, 5237 MH 's-Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands. l.degraaf@lareb.nl

Abstract:

AIMS AND METHODS: To describe patients with decreased libido during use of a HMG-CoA-reductase-inhibitor, and to discuss causality and pharmacological hypotheses for this association by analysis of the adverse drug reactions (ADR) database of the Netherlands Pharmacovigilance Centre Lareb.

RESULTS: Eight patients were identified as having decreased libido during use of statins. In two of these cases testosterone levels were determined and appeared to be decreased.

CONCLUSION: Decreased libido is a probable adverse drug reaction of HMG-CoA-reductase-inhibitors and is reversible. The ADR may be caused by low serum testosterone levels, mainly due to intracellular cholesterol depletion.

Article Published Date : Sep 01, 2004
Study Type : Human Study
Additional Links
Diseases : Libido: Low : CK(73) : AC(21), Low Testosterone : CK(385) : AC(70)
Problem Substances : Statin Drugs : CK(3969) : AC(465)

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Low Testosterone and meds

benniebob2
Submitted by benniebob2 on Sat, 2012-12-29 23:12.

What is a male to do who takes statin Vytorin for high cholesterol and two high blood pressure meds daily and his testosterone has decreased into the low normal range and need to have that range increased. I have started taking IM testosterone injections, 1cc every other week. Have been on this for three injections as of today. Just wondering if you have any encouraging information?

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