Estrogen therapy during menopause
Horwitz, D.L.
Comprehensive Therapy 6(3): 3-4
1980
ISSN/ISBN: 0098-8243 PMID: 7363581 Document Number: 158414
There is increasing evidence to suggest that the administration of estrogens to menopausal and postmenopausal women may have minimal, if any, beneficial effects, and may have some adverse consequences. 3 possible indications for use of estrogens are examined: treatment of vasomotor systems; prevention of atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease; and prevention of osteoporosis. Few data exist to support the use of estrogens in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and various nonspecific symptoms. Although estrogens appear to be useful for the vasomotor symptoms, this indication is of relatively short duration. The estrogens should not be continued indefinitely to delay atherosclerosis. The longterm use of estrogens for prevention of osteoporosis is controversial. If given, the minimal effective dose should be used, and efficacy should be determined by sensitive and objective means such as photon-absorption bone density studies. Uterine cytologic exams and prompt investigation of vaginal bleeding are requirements for women who have not had hysterectomies.