Beneficial effect of tibolone on mood, cognition, well-being, and sexuality in menopausal women

Andrea Riccardo Genazzani, Nicola Pluchino, Francesca Bernardi, Manolo Centofanti, Michele Luisi

Department of Reproductive Medicine and Child Development, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pisa, Italy

Abstract: Tibolone is a synthetic molecule used extensively for the management of menopausal symptoms, with the proposed additional advantage of enhanced mood and libido. Tibolone, after oral administration, is rapidly converted into 3 major metabolites: 3α-hydroxy tibolone and 3β-hydroxy tibolone, which have estrogenic effects, and the ∆4-isomer, which has progestogenic and androgenic effects. The tissue-selective effects of tibolone are the result of metabolism, of enzyme regulation, and of receptor activation which vary in different tissues. Tibolone seems to be effective on estrogen-withdrawal symptoms such as hot flushes, sweating, insomnia, headache, and vaginal dryness, with results generally comparable to the effects exerted by estrogen-based treatments, and the additional property of a progestogenic activity on the endometrium. As well as relieving vasomotor symptoms, tibolone has positive effects on sexual well-being and mood, and improves dyspareunia and libido. These effects may depend on both estrogenic and androgenic actions exerted at the genital level and in thecentral nervous system, and on a reduction of sex-hormone-binding globulin and an increase of free testosterone, without affecting ∆-5 androgens levels. Based on the evidence available, tibolone is a valuable treatment option to relieve menopausal complaints, especially in women suffering persistent fatigue, blunted motivation, and loss of sexual desire despite an adequate estrogen replacement.

Keywords: tibolone, menopause, mood, well-being and sexuality