Hot Flushes: Why can't I continue with HRT?
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.For many years, since the menopause, I have taken Livial tablets and I have felt very well with them. I recently visited my GP and she told me to stop using them. Since then I am getting three or four hot flushes every day. Is there a good reason why I can't continue to take Livial?
Dr Fred Kavalier answers your health question:
Livial is a form of hormone replacement therapy (HRT). It is licensed for the "short-term treatment of symptoms of oestrogen deficiency", but there does not appear to be any specific reason why it cannot be taken for many years. Like all drugs, it is possible that Livial may have long-term side effects that are unknown. One study showed that Livial decreases the amount of HDL (so-called "good" cholesterol) in the blood, but there is no evidence that people who take Livial get more heart problems than people who do not. Why not ask your doctor why she has stopped the Livial?
Please mail your questions for Dr Fred to health@independent.co.uk. He regrets that he is unable to respond personally to questions.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments