Low-dose HRT patches ‘less of a stroke risk than tablets’

Low-dose hormone replacement therapy (HRT) patches carry less of a risk of strokes than tablets, according to new research.

A joint Canadian and German study published in the British Medical Journal said low-dose HRT patches were a safer alternative, but that the risk of strokes increased sharply with high-dose patches.

More than 75,000 patients’ records between 1987 and 2006 were examined by researchers, who could not find a connection between increased risk of strokes and use of low oestrogen dose patches compared to no use.

Long-term use of oral HRT increased stroke risk by 35 per cent compared with no use, regardless of dosage.

“This study should encourage further research on the importance of the route of administration to define the role of transdermal oestrogens in the therapeutic arsenal for the treatment of menopausal symptoms,” the researchers wrote.

HRT is regularly prescribed to post-menopausal women, although previous studies have established links to an increased stroke risk.