The mythology of hormone replacement therapy
Article first published online: 19 AUG 2005
DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-0528.1997.tb11038.x
Issue
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BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology
Volume 104, Issue 2, pages 163–168, February 1997
Additional Information
How to Cite
Hartmann, B. W. and Huber, J. C. (1997), The mythology of hormone replacement therapy. BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, 104: 163–168. doi: 10.1111/j.1471-0528.1997.tb11038.x
Publication History
- Issue published online: 19 AUG 2005
- Article first published online: 19 AUG 2005
- Received 16 November 1995 Accepted 22 August 1996
- Abstract
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Objective To evaluate the literature on contraindications contained in pharmaceutical data sheets of five currently available oestrogen replacement preparations (HRT). These contraindications include cardiovascular disease, diabetes, liver diseases, otosclerosis, endometriosis, melanoma and hormone-dependent tumours.
Design Systematic review.
Interventions Oestrogen replacement regimens.
Results The contraindications to the five HRT preparations have been taken uncritically from the data sheets of oral contraceptives. In some of these conditions not only is HRT not contraindicated, it is indicated. The data sheets for the HRT preparations all state that cardiovascular disease is a contraindication, but systematic review shows that ischaemic heart disease, hypertension and hyperlipidaemia are not contraindications, and in ischaemic heart disease HRT may actually be indicated. Similarly, systematic review shows that diabetes, chronic liver disease, endometriosis, some cases of treated cancer of the endometrium and breast, melanoma and otosclerosis are not contraindications to HRT.
Conclusions The information in the pharmaceutical data sheets of HRT regimens should be modified as more accurate information could influence how these preparations are prescribed by doctors as well as affect patient compliance.

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