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The changing view of hormone replacement therapy.
1Division of Cardiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
Reviews in Cardiovascular Medicine
|May 31, 2003
Summary
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) was widely used by postmenopausal women, but recent studies show it does not reduce heart disease risk. New guidelines are available for patients and physicians considering HRT.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Health
- Endocrinology
- Women's Health
Background:
- Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is commonly used by postmenopausal women.
- Conjugated equine estrogen is a leading HRT brand and a top-prescribed drug.
- Historically, HRT was recommended to mitigate coronary heart disease (CHD) risk in postmenopausal women.
Purpose of the Study:
- To re-evaluate the efficacy of HRT in reducing coronary heart disease risk.
- To present updated guidelines for HRT use based on new clinical trial data.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of three major clinical trials conducted in the summer of 2002.
- Review of evolving vascular biologic understanding related to HRT.
Main Results:
- New evidence contradicts previous observational data suggesting HRT reduces CHD risk.
- Findings indicate HRT does not offer protection against coronary heart disease.
Conclusions:
- The widespread recommendation of HRT for postmenopausal women needs revision.
- Updated clinical guidelines are necessary for informed patient and physician decision-making regarding HRT.