Abstract

PHARMACOVIGILANCE OF HORMONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY IN MENOPAUSAL WOMEN

Dipti S. Nalkande*, Tejswini P. Tayde, Umesh R. Bansod, Harigopal S. Sawarkar, Nikita V. Mahalle and Neha L. Zod

Abstract

Menopause, typically occurring around age 51, brings a range of symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, joint pain, and mood disturbances. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT), which combines estrogen and progestogen, is used to alleviate these symptoms and offers benefits like reduced mortality and coronary heart disease risk. However, HRT usage remains low in the US and Europe, highlighting a gap in menopausal care. Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM), characterized by vaginal dryness, dyspareunia, and urinary issues, is often under diagnosed despite its prevalence. HRT can be effective for managing GSM symptoms, with personalized treatment plans tailored to individual patient needs and medical histories. Pharmacovigilance plays a critical role in monitoring the safety and efficacy of HRT, aiming to recognize adverse drug reactions and ensure regulatory compliance. Optimizing estrogen levels through personalized titration is essential for maximizing treatment effectiveness while minimizing risks, particularly for populations like breast cancer survivors who may need alternative therapies. Overall, enhancing awareness and access to varied treatment options is vital for meeting the needs of menopausal patients and improving their quality of life.

Keywords: Menopause, Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM), Pharmacovigilance, Personalized Treatment.