The impact of different HRT regimens on compliance

Epidemiological data strongly suggest a substantial improvement of quality of life for post-menopausal women using hormonal replacement therapy (HRT). Nevertheless, reluctance of women to choose HRT is high. Various attempts to develop regimens with substantially better acceptance are being investigated. Sequential and continuous combined regimens, oral and transdermal routes of administration are available; however, no regimen nor any mode of administration has proven superior with regard to patients' compliance. Research on the specific problems of compliance in HRT has not yet offered solutions to the medical community about optimal conditions concerning long-term hormonal therapy. Unless metabolic profiles of the various modes of treatment are defined in long-term trials, general recommendations are difficult to justify. As long as the occurrence of uterine bleeding is associated with any concept of HRT in non-hysterectomized women, adherence has been reported to be very low. Persisting endometrial atrophy has not been achieved by any type of HRT. New regimens not stimulating endometrial growth are essential, since women in most cultures do not accept uterine bleeding after cessation of ovarian function. Educational programs should be developed to inform women about the physiology of menopause in general and the rationale of HRT. The occurrence of uterine bleeding due to the present types of HRT needs to be specifically addressed. Risk-benefit assessments are to be explained to patients to reach an informed decision on HRT, and fears of women about actual or alleged negative metabolic impacts of HRT need to be discussed.