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. [email protected]

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(95) : AC(24), Low Testosterone : CK(899) : AC(147)
Problem Substances : Statin Drugs : CK(4608) : AC(562)

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Key Research Topics

Disease

Low Testosterone
Libido: Low

Toxic Ingredients

Statin Drugs

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