Overview
Hormone therapy is FDA-approved for vasomotor symptoms (hot flashes, night sweats), genitourinary symptoms of menopause, and prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis in appropriate patients. Women with a uterus who use estrogen generally also need a progestogen.
How it works
Estrogen replaces declining hormone levels to relieve symptoms. Progesterone protects the uterine lining in women with a uterus.
Potential benefits
- Relief of hot flashes and night sweats
- Improvement in vaginal dryness and discomfort
- Bone loss prevention in appropriate patients
Individual results vary. Outcomes are not guaranteed.
Who may qualify
- Perimenopausal or postmenopausal women with bothersome symptoms
- Review of personal and family history of cancer, clots, stroke, and heart disease
- Clinician determines suitability
Important safety information
Contraindications
- Undiagnosed abnormal genital bleeding
- Known or suspected breast cancer or estrogen-dependent cancer
- Active or history of blood clots, stroke, or heart attack
- Liver disease, pregnancy
Warnings & precautions
- Boxed warnings: endometrial cancer (unopposed estrogen), cardiovascular disorders, breast cancer, probable dementia
- Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration consistent with goals
Common side effects
- Breast tenderness, bloating
- Headache, spotting or bleeding
- Nausea, mood changes
Drug interactions
- CYP3A4 inducers and inhibitors
- Thyroid hormone replacement may need adjustment
Pregnancy
Not for use during pregnancy.
Monitoring
Annual review, breast and gynecologic screening as recommended, reassessment of continued need.
This summary is not complete. Review the full prescribing information and discuss risks with your clinician.
Treatment process
01
Evaluation
Secure assessment and clinician review.
02
Prescribing
Issued only if clinically appropriate.
03
Fulfillment
Through a licensed pharmacy, subject to availability.
04
Follow-up
Ongoing monitoring and support.
Frequently asked questions
Are bioidentical hormones safer?
FDA-approved products include bioidentical estradiol and progesterone. Custom-compounded hormones are not FDA-approved and lack the same quality and safety review.
How long can I use hormone therapy?
This is individualized. Your clinician will reassess benefits and risks regularly.
