Date of Award

2019

Degree Type

Selective Evidence-Based Medicine Review

Degree Name

Master of Science in Health Sciences - Physician Assistant

Department

Physician Assistant Studies

Department Chair

Laura Levy, DHSc, PA-C

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this selective evidence-based medicine (EBM) review is to determine whether or not Tribulus terrestris is effective at increasing sexual desire in adult women suffering from hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD).

Study Design: Review of three randomized controlled trials published in 2014, 2016, and 2017; selection was based on their relevance to the clinical question and on their patient-oriented outcomes.

Data Sources: Three peer-reviewed primary studies comparing the use of Tribulus terrestris to placebo in the treatment of HSDD were found on PubMed. Outcome(s) Measured: For each trial, patients were divided into either Tribulus terrestris treatment or placebo treatment groups. Trials assessed female sexual function index (FSFI) and sexual quotient female (QS-F) questionnaire score improvements to evaluate treatment efficacy.

Results: All three trials used the FSFI questionnaire and reported a statistically significant (P < 0.05) increase in mean change from baseline in sexual desire when using Tribulus terrestris. De Souza et al. and Vale et al. also reported a statistically significant (P < 0.05) increase in mean change from baseline of the placebo group of < 0.01 and 0.001, respectively. De Souza et al. and Vale et al. reported a statistically significant (P < 0.05) increase in sexual desire using QS-F results with a number needed to treat (NNT) of 20 and 4, respectively.

Conclusion: Tribulus terrestris may safely and effectively improve sexual desire in women with HSDD; however, clear and concise methods and statistical analysis are needed to further investigate its full clinical potential.

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