TY - JOUR T1 - The dangers of compounded bioidentical hormone replacement therapy JF - British Journal of General Practice JO - Br J Gen Pract SP - 540 LP - 541 DO - 10.3399/bjgp19X706169 VL - 69 IS - 688 AU - Louise Newson AU - Janice Rymer Y1 - 2019/11/01 UR - http://bjgp.org/content/69/688/540.abstract N2 - The menopause is a normal life event for women, not an illness or a medical condition. However, the effects of the menopause often have a negative impact on women’s wellbeing and quality of life, and are frequently underestimated by noth women and their doctors. Furthermore, the low estrogen levels and other biological changes that occur in menopausal women are also associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, type 2 diabetes,1 and dementia.2Around 75% of menopausal women experience symptoms, with around one-third of these experiencing severe symptoms which are having a negative effect on their lives, both at home and at work.1Over the past two decades, there has been a huge amount of confusion regarding hormone replacement therapy (HRT). We now have clear, evidence-based guidelines available to ensure women have individualised care and treatment for their perimenopause and menopause.2,3However, many women and healthcare professionals are still worried about the perceived risks of HRT. Much of the negativity regarding HRT stems from the misinterpretation of the Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) study in 2002, which led to a worldwide reduction in HRT use.4 The subsequent sub-analysis of this study revealed reassuring and positive results to support the use of HRT, especially in younger women.5 Other research has supported the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence menopause guidelines that the benefits of HRT outweigh the risks in the majority of women.2There is now evidence demonstrating that transdermal estrogen in association with … ER -