Side effects

Side effects vary by individual and hormone dose. Many improve as the body adjusts to treatment. The most common side effects of hormone therapy include:

• Breast tenderness
• Fluid retention or bloating
• Headache
• Mild mood changes
• Nausea
• Spotting or breakthrough bleeding (early in therapy)

Less common side effects may include acne or oily skin (more common with DHEA), fatigue or dizziness, changes in menstrual cycle patterns, and hair thinning (reported with DHEA in some individuals).

Contact your provider if you experience persistent or worsening side effects, new vaginal bleeding after stabilization on therapy, or significant mood changes or unusual symptoms.

Though rare, serious side effects can occur. Please seek immediate medical attention if you experience blood clots (venous thromboembolism), elevated blood pressure, severe headaches, chest pain, leg swelling, shortness of breath, or severe allergic reaction.

Potential drug interactions

Hormone therapy may interact with certain medications including:

• Anticonvulsants
• Certain antibiotics or antifungals
• Thyroid medications
• Corticosteroids
• Herbal supplements (such as St. John’s Wort) may decrease hormone levels and reduce treatment effectiveness

Always inform your provider about all medications, supplements, and over-the-counter products you take.

Other important safety information

Hormone therapy, including Estradiol, Micronized Progesterone, and DHEA, is offered as an adjunctive, supportive therapy intended to help relieve symptoms associated with hormone decline and improve quality of life. It is not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment of underlying medical conditions. Hormone therapy does not replace routine medical care, and patients should continue ongoing evaluation and treatment with their primary care provider and appropriate specialists.

Treatment decisions are based on clinical symptoms, medical history, and laboratory evaluation when appropriate. 

Hormone therapy is not appropriate for everyone. You should not use hormone therapy if you:

• Are under age 40 (unless due to surgical or iatrogenic menopause)
• Have unexplained vaginal bleeding that has not been evaluated
• Previously experienced severe intolerance or adverse reactions to hormone therapy or have a known hypersensitivity to any ingredient
• Have active liver disease
• Have significant heart dysfunction (ejection fraction <50% or advanced heart failure)

Certain individuals may require modified treatment approaches or additional monitoring, including those with:

• Prior or active blood clots
• Smoking history
• BMI ≥30 
• Elevated cardiovascular risk
• Kidney or liver function abnormalities
• Incomplete routine gynecologic care or delayed mammogram screening (must be completed within 90 days of starting hormone therapy)
• Current hormonal contraceptive use (must be discontinued prior to therapy)

Your AgelessRx provider will review your medical history to determine whether hormone therapy is appropriate and which formulation is most appropriate.

Do not use hormone therapy if you have an active cancer, or if you have a history of hormone sensitive cancers, such as breast or endometrial cancer.

Hormone therapy may influence certain cancer risks depending on individual health factors and duration of therapy. Use of Estradiol without Micronized Progesterone in individuals with an intact uterus increases the risk of endometrial cancer. When indicated, Micronized Progesterone is prescribed alongside Estradiol therapy to reduce this risk.

Your provider weighs potential benefits and risks before prescribing treatment. Routine screenings (such as mammograms and pelvic exams) should be maintained according to standard guidelines.

Do not use hormone therapy if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant or breastfeed. If you become pregnant during hormone treatment, discontinue use immediately and consult your OB.

Though rare, allergic reactions to hormone therapy are still possible. If you notice any rash, shortness of breath, or swelling around your face, tongue, or throat, stop use and contact emergency services right away. 

As with any prescription medication, the dose prescribed is for you and you alone. Do not, under any circumstances, allow anyone else to use your hormone therapy.