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  • Title: Estrogen prescribing practices scrutinized at NIH conference.
    Author: Eichelberger BM.
    Journal: Am J Hosp Pharm; 1979 Dec; 36(12):1728. PubMed ID: 525651.
    Abstract:
    Despite reports of studies linking menopausal estrogen therapy with endometrial cancer in 1975, physicians have persisted in considering menopause a condition needing medication--with estrogens. To assess the risks and benefits, NIH held a conference on estrogen usage in postmenopausal women. A panel of physicians heard the therapeutic, epidemiologic, and sociologic evidence and summarized the findings in a final report. It was agreed that estrogen therapy will be effective in combating vasomotor flushes (hot flashes) and vaginal atrophy and dryness. Evidence to justify estrogen use for coronary vascular disease and depression does not exist. Further evidence is needed to deterine whether estrogen therapy will decrease osteoporosis-related fractures. The risk of endometrial cancer increases 4-8-fold following 2-4 years of continuous estrogen usage. It was concluded that estrogens should be prescribed in the lowest effective dosages and for short terms, not exceedng 2-4 years. Cyclic progestin administration and yearly curettage sampling for endometrial cancer might reduce the risk of developing endometrial cancer while on estrogen therapy.
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