J Clin Endocrinol Metab

Testosterone treatment boosts sexual desire in older men at risk for T2DM

March 13, 2025

Testosterone treatment can enhance sexual desire and, to a lesser extent, erectile function, particularly in older men and those with higher waist circumference or depressive symptoms. Testosterone therapy may be beneficial for improving sexual function in men at high risk of T2DM, especially when combined with lifestyle interventions.

Study design: This secondary analysis of the T4DM trial double-blind, placebo-controlled study included 1,007 men aged 50-74 years at high risk of, or newly diagnosed with, T2DM. Participants received IM testosterone undecanoate (1,000 mg) or placebo every 3 months for 2 years, alongside a community-based lifestyle program. Sexual function was assessed using the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF)-15 questionnaire.

Results: A total of 792 (79%) participants had complete IIEF-15 data. Testosterone treatment improved all 5 IIEF-15 domain scores, with stronger effects on sexual desire and orgasmic function in older men, and sexual desire in men with higher depression scores. Testosterone had no impact on depression. Reductions in waist circumference were associated with improved erectile function, and reductions in depression scores correlated with better sexual function. Clinically significant improvement in erectile function and sexual desire occurred in 3% and 10% of men, respectively, and was inversely related to baseline function.

Source:

Wittert GA, et al. (2025, February 10). J Clin Endocrinol Metab. Testosterone Treatment and Sexual Function in Men: Secondary Analysis of the T4DM (Testosterone for Diabetes) Trial. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39928571/