Does HRT Affect Lipid Profiles in Postmenopausal Women?

Results of observational studies have suggested that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) reduces coronary heart disease (CHD) risk among postmenopausal women (JWC Mar 2001, p. . . .

Results of observational studies have suggested that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) reduces coronary heart disease (CHD) risk among postmenopausal women (JWC Mar 2001, p. 26, accession number 010202005, and Ann Intern Med 2000; 133:933). These researchers hypothesized that HRT would have a beneficial effect on serum lipid and lipoprotein levels in this population. In this double-blind, randomized trial, 59 sedentary women (minimum age, 75) received 9 months of either placebo or conjugated estrogens (0.625 mg/day) plus periodic progestin.

By 9 months, the HRT group experienced a significant decrease in mean LDL cholesterol level and a significant increase in mean HDL cholesterol level compared with respective changes in the placebo group. …

Reviewing Author

JM Gore