ABSTRACT
Introduction 465 Menopausal symptoms 465 Vasomotor symptoms 466 Vaginal atrophy and urinary effects 466 Menstrual problems 466 Anxiety and depression 466 Loss of concentration/poor memory 466 Sexual function 466 Osteoporosis 466
Hormone replacement therapy, dementia, and Alzheimer disease 467
Hormone replacement therapy and cardiovascular disease 468 Adverse effects of hormone replacement therapy 469 Contraindications to hormone replacement therapy use 470 Alternative remedies 471 Uptake of hormone replacement therapy 471 Duration of use of hormone replacement therapy 471 References 472
There are few prescribed drugs that give rise to such controversy as hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Many individuals, both professional and lay, have strong feelings either for or against it. The publication of the large studies that are discussed in this chapter and elsewhere in this book has altered the prescribing practices of virtually all doctors involved in the care of menopausal women.
