Androgen effects on the central nervous system in the postmenopausal woman.

Interest in the effects of androgens on the central nervous system (CNS) in postmenopausal women dates back to at least fifty years. The mechanisms of action of androgens on the CNS are extremely complex and multi-faceted. Much data has been accumulated in recent years that suggest a beneficial role of androgens in several aspects of CNS function. These include positive effects on mood, cognition, memory, and libido. The information continues to be preliminary in nature and requires further investigations. There is evidence of altered androgen metabolism triggered by exogenous postmenopausal estrogen therapy. While promising, the current body of evidence does not yet support the routine addition of androgens to postmenopausal hormone therapy.