Is Risk for Venous Thromboembolism Affected by Route and Type of Menopausal Hormone Therapy?

Results of a large observational study suggest that transdermal (in contrast with oral) estrogens do not raise risk.

Although hormone therapy (HT) now is recommended only for short-term relief of menopausal symptoms, risk for idiopathic venous thromboembolism (VTE) is greatest during the first year of treatment. To determine if route of administration or type of concomitant progestogen affects risk for VTE, investigators analyzed data from a prospective cohort study of more than 80,000 French women (mean age at entry, 54) who completed biennial questionnaires for a mean of 10 years. The study was partially funded by a manufacturer of transdermal delivery systems.

During follow-up, 549 first idiopathic VTEs (134 pulmonary emboli and 415 deep venous thromboses) occurred. Past users (i.e., those with no use within 3 months before questionnaire completion) and…

Reviewing Author

Robert W. Rebar, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardMyovant Sciences, Inc.

Editorial BoardsEndoText; Clinical OB/GYN Alert

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican Society for Reproductive Medicine (Member, Ethics Committee)

Robert W. Rebar, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardMyovant Sciences, Inc.

Editorial BoardsEndoText; Clinical OB/GYN Alert

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican Society for Reproductive Medicine (Member, Ethics Committee)

Is Risk for Venous Thromboembolism Affected by Route and Type of Menopausal Hormone Therapy?

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Reviewing Author