Copyright STAT
Rise and shine, everyone, another busy day is on the way. And it is getting off to a good start here on the Pharmalot campus, where gusty winds and clear blue skies are greeting us. Who could ask for anything more? Actually, we could — it is time to reheat the coffee kettle for another cup of stimulation. Once again, we are reaching for honey almond crunch, which is fast becoming a favorite. Barista tip — a teaspoon of honey enhances the flavors splendidly. And by all means, please feel free to join us. Remember, no prescription is required. And now, here are your tidbits. Hope you have a productive and meaningful day, and, as always, please keep in touch. We have adjusted our settings to accept postcards and telegrams. … The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is reversing a 2003 decision that put a stringent warning on hormone therapy products for menopausal women, saying that the treatments offer heart, brain, and bone health benefits, STAT notes. The changes, expected within six months, represent a radical turnabout in what women have been told about hormone replacement therapy. The impetus for the black box warning was a 2002 landmark study called the Women’s Health Initiative that suggested hormone therapy came with an increased risk of heart disease and breast cancer. The study specifically focused on combination therapy among older, postmenopausal women, but the results were interpreted broadly, ultimately driving down usage. Since then, a growing body of research has shown that hormone therapy can actually be beneficial to menopausal women’s heart health, reducing insulin resistance and improving other cardiovascular biomarkers. These therapies can be used to alleviate menopausal symptoms including hot flashes, sleeping troubles, vaginal dryness, and painful sex. Advertisement
