Secondary prevention

 

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)

• Evidence of increase risk of stroke with oestrogen-only and combined (oestrogen and progesterone) HRT
• Giving HRT must be balanced against clinical need
• Transdermal HRT may not be associated with increased risk of stroke
• Lower doses of oestrogen have a lower risk of stroke

Recommendation 5.10.1

A. The decision whether to start or continue hormone replacement therapy should be discussed with the individual patient and based on an overall assessment of risk and benefit. Consideration should be given to the dosage and formulation (eg oral or transdermal preparations).