Age over 60 years
- 10 Dec 2023
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Age over 60 years
- Updated on 10 Dec 2023
- 1 Minute to read
- Print
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- Previous recommendations have expressed caution starting HRT >60 years due to concerns about stroke risk.
- Current guidance from the British Menopause Society says that if HRT is to be used in women over 60 years of age, lower doses should be started, preferably with a transdermal route of oestrogen administration.
- Arbitrary limits are not placed on age or duration of HRT use. However any decision to take HRT in older women should be made after an individualised discussion about the risks and benefits.
- More careful considerations are required because the absolute risk of health conditions, such as breast cancer, stroke and VTE, increases with age. This should be considered in the context of the overall benefits obtained from using HRT, including on symptom control and quality of life.
References and Further Information:
- Hillard T, Abenethy K, Hamoda H et al. BMS handbook. Management of the Menopause Sixth edition. British Menopause Society. 2017.
- Hamoda H, Panay N, Pedder H et al. The British Menopause Society & Women’s Health Concern 2020 recommendations on hormone replacement therapy in menopausal women. Found on page 190. Post Reprod Health 2020.
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