GPs Advised to Offer HRT as First Treatment Option for Menopausal Women
Previous guidance indicated that cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) could be considered as an alternative to hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for women experiencing menopause symptoms.
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) stated that HRT is the recommended approach for managing symptoms like hot flushes, insomnia, and low mood, and should be offered by GPs after discussing the risks and benefits with patients.
Recent data shows a significant increase in HRT prescriptions, raising concerns about potential risks such as breast cancer and stroke associated with artificial hormones.
Related Stories
HRT is not recommended for women with a family history of blood clots due to an increased risk, especially with combined HRT and the duration of use.
While some argue against medicalizing menopause and prefer a more natural approach, many women report significant improvements in their quality of life and symptom relief with HRT.
Life Expectancy Unaffected
The updated guidelines highlight that HRT does not impact overall life expectancy based on existing research.
Prof. Jonathan Benger emphasized that HRT should be the first-line treatment for menopausal symptoms, with CBT as an additional option for those unable or unwilling to take HRT.
Addressing concerns about CBT being controversial, a consultant clinical adviser at NICE stated that the wording and placement of CBT within the guidelines were thoroughly reviewed.
A Pfizer sign outside of their headquarters in a file photo. Mario Tama/Getty Images
‘Controversial’ CBT Recommendation
Marie Anne Ledingham, consultant clinical adviser at NICE, addressed the controversy surrounding the CBT recommendation and the time spent on refining its placement within the guidelines and its relationship to other recommendations.
NICE also released a “discussion aid” for GPs and patients, providing insights into the risks and benefits of HRT, helping clinicians offer personalized advice to women considering this treatment.
Despite the surge in HRT prescriptions, debates continue around the medicalization of menopause and the risks associated with HRT medications.
Medical Ghostwriting
Wyeth, now a subsidiary of Pfizer, was involved in a medical scandal related to HRT products, where false reviews were commissioned to promote benefits and downplay risks, leading to a significant drop in HRT use.
Pfizer continues to market popular HRT medications, emphasizing the importance of informed decision-making and personalized advice for women considering HRT.
