Androgen administration to transsexual women. II. Hormonal changes.

Abstract

The authors administered to six transsexual women at three-month intervals androgenic depot preparations: testosterone undecanoate (Andriol-Organon) by the oral route and testosterone isobutyrate (Agovirin depot-Spofa) in injections. The achieved changes were evaluated by clinical and laboratory examinations, i.e. somatic changes as well as changes of hormonal indicators in plasma, urine and saliva, changes in the TeBG binding capacity, the effect of the administered hormones on liver functions, glucose metabolism and secretory insulin response. The high plasma androgen level did not vary substantially. After Andriol administration, a significant decrease of plasma TeBG was achieved, and an increase of the free testosterone fraction in saliva which was retained three months after discontinuation of the treatment. Both preparations caused the required virilization, whereby the action of Agovirin depot-Spofa in the selected dose was, as regards the speed of onset and intensity of the androgenization symptoms, more effective. The gonadotropin levels were not changed significantly during short-term administration. No interference with liver functions and glucose metabolism was observed. The patients tolerated both preparations well.