HRT involves taking estrogen and progestogen (combined HRT) or simply taking estrogen (estrogen-only HRT). Estrogens and progestins are the main hormonal drugs used in HRT.
Progesterone is the main female sex hormone that occurs naturally and is also converted into a medication used in menopausal hormone therapy.
While both classes of hormones may have symptomatic benefits, progestogen is specifically added to estrogen regimens, unless the uterus has been removed, to prevent an increased risk of endometrial cancer. Unopposed estrogen therapy promotes endometrial hyperplasia and increases the risk of cancer, while progestogen reduces this risk.Sometimes, androgens such as testosterone are also used. Hormone replacement therapy is available through a variety of different routes. Brands include Estradot, Evorel, FemSeven, Lenzetto, Oestrogel, Progynova and Sandrena. These enzymes can affect the amount of hormones that are available in the body (bioavailability) in patches and gels, and there is evidence that this composition of proteins and enzymes also alters over time.
