Side Effects of estrogen: A Synthesis of Findings from 8 Studies

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Original Abstract of the Article

Main Research Findings

Estrogen therapy has been shown to be effective in treating various conditions, including myocardial infarction in men , androgenetic alopecia 8 , prostate cancer 4 , postmenopausal depression 2 , and breast cancer 7 . However, numerous studies have also identified potential side effects associated with estrogen therapy, which warrant careful consideration and management.

Reasons for Side Effects

Estrogen is a female hormone, and when administered to men, it can disrupt the natural hormonal balance, leading to a variety of side effects. The body's response to estrogen can vary significantly based on individual factors such as age, health conditions, and the specific type and dose of estrogen used.

Common Side Effects

Cardiac Disease

Studies have shown a potential increased risk of heart disease with estrogen therapy, particularly in men with prostate cancer. 4 The exact mechanisms by which estrogen might affect heart health are still being investigated.

Fluid Retention

Estrogen therapy can lead to fluid retention, causing swelling, particularly in the lower extremities. This is likely due to estrogen's influence on fluid regulation mechanisms in the body. 4

Hypertension

Estrogen therapy can contribute to an increase in blood pressure, potentially due to estrogen's effects on blood vessel constriction. 4

Feminization

In men, estrogen therapy can lead to feminizing effects such as breast enlargement (gynecomastia), decreased libido, and potential changes in sperm production. 8 These effects are usually dose-dependent and may be more pronounced with higher doses of estrogen.

Other Side Effects

Other side effects associated with estrogen therapy can include headaches, nausea, digestive problems, weight gain, mood fluctuations, and an increased risk of blood clots. The occurrence and severity of these side effects can vary widely.

Side Effect Management

Cardiac Disease

Regular medical monitoring, including blood pressure and cholesterol checks, is essential to manage potential cardiovascular risks associated with estrogen therapy. 4 Lifestyle modifications, such as exercise and a healthy diet, can also play a role in reducing cardiac risk factors.

Fluid Retention

To minimize fluid retention, individuals undergoing estrogen therapy may benefit from reducing sodium intake, increasing water consumption, and engaging in regular exercise. 4

Hypertension

Managing hypertension through diet, exercise, and potentially medication, as directed by a physician, is essential for individuals on estrogen therapy. 4

Feminization

If feminizing effects occur, consultation with a healthcare professional is crucial to discuss possible treatment options and adjust the estrogen dosage as needed. 8

Other Side Effects

For any bothersome side effects, seeking medical advice is recommended to explore potential solutions and manage the symptoms effectively.

Comparison between Studies

Commonalities

Across various studies, a consistent finding emerges: estrogen therapy can be beneficial, but it also carries the risk of side effects. The importance of individualized treatment plans and careful monitoring is emphasized.

Differences

The specific types, frequencies, and severities of side effects can vary based on the study's population, the specific type of estrogen used, the dosage, and the duration of treatment. Therefore, direct comparisons between studies are not always straightforward.

Real-Life Applications and Precautions

Estrogen therapy can be a valuable treatment option for various conditions, but it should be considered with a careful understanding of its potential side effects. It's essential for individuals to have open conversations with their healthcare providers to weigh the benefits against the risks, explore potential management strategies, and make informed decisions about their treatment.

Limitations of Current Research

Further research is needed to better understand the long-term side effects of estrogen therapy, particularly in men. There is still much to learn about the complex interactions of estrogen within the body and how it may influence various organ systems over extended periods.

Future Research Directions

Future research should focus on identifying specific factors that contribute to individual responses to estrogen therapy, developing safer and more targeted estrogen therapies with fewer side effects, and exploring alternative treatment options for conditions where estrogen is currently used.

Conclusion

Estrogen therapy can be effective for various conditions, but it is crucial to acknowledge the potential for side effects. Careful monitoring, open communication with healthcare providers, and personalized treatment plans are essential for managing estrogen therapy safely and effectively. Continuous research is vital to enhance our understanding of estrogen's complex effects and develop more targeted and safe treatment strategies.

Literature analysis of 8 papers
Positive Content
5
Neutral Content
0
Negative Content
3
Article Type
3
0
0
1
8
1.

The probability of side effects with ovral, norinyl 1/50 and norlestrin.

Author: BergerG S, EdelmanD A, TalwarP P

OC side effects

This report provides information on the prevalence rates of side effects during the first 3 cycles of use of 3 combination oral contraceptives containing 50 mcg estrogen.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

2.

Failure of tibolone to potentiate the pharmacological effect of fluoxetine in postmenopausal major depression.

Author: BerlangaCarlos, MendietaDanelia, AlvaGuadalupe, del Carmen LaraMaría

Mood enhancement

The gonadomimetic drug tibolone was investigated for its potential antidepressant effects in perimenopausal women.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

3.

Selective estrogen receptor alpha agonist GTx-758 decreases testosterone with reduced side effects of androgen deprivation therapy in men with advanced prostate cancer.

Author: YuEvan Y, GetzenbergRobert H, CossChristopher C, GittelmanMarc M, KeaneThomas, TutroneRonald, BelkoffLaurence, GivenRobert, BassJoel, ChuFranklin, GamblaMichael, GaylisFranklin, BailenJames, HancockMichael L, SmithJordan, DaltonJames T, SteinerMitchell S

Fewer hot flashes
Less bone loss
Less insulin resistance
Lower PSA
Lower free testosterone
Venous thromboembolic events

Leuprolide reduced total testosterone more effectively than GTx-758, but GTx-758 lowered free testosterone and prostate-specific antigen more effectively. While GTx-758 reduced estrogen deficiency side effects, it had a higher incidence of venous thromboembolic events.

Clinical Trial, Phase IIA Phase II trial is a trial that further evaluates the efficacy and safety of a new drug or treatment, whose safety has been confirmed to some extent in a Phase I trial, in a small number of patients.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Multicenter StudyResearch conducted in collaboration with multiple research institutions. It aims to collect a wide range of data and obtain more generalizable results.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

6.

Managing Common Estrogen Deprivation Side Effects in HR+ Breast Cancer: an Evidence-Based Review.

Author: Dos SantosBethânia Soares, BordignonCláudia, RosaDaniela Dornelles

Symptom management

Endocrine therapy is recommended for all breast cancer patients expressing hormone receptors, but it can lead to various side effects. Several medications and nonpharmacological measures can help control these adverse events.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

7.

A comparison of survival outcomes and side effects of toremifene or tamoxifen therapy in premenopausal estrogen and progesterone receptor positive breast cancer patients: a retrospective cohort study.

Author: GuRan, JiaWeijuan, ZengYunjie, RaoNanyan, HuYue, LiShunrong, WuJiannan, JinLiang, ChenLijuan, LongMeijun, ChenKai, ChenLili, XiaoQiaozhen, WuMei, SongErwei, SuFengxi

Breast cancer treatment

This retrospective study sought to establish the role of toremifene as an endocrine therapy for premenopausal patients with estrogen and/or progesterone receptor positive breast cancer besides tamoxifen.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

8.

[Penetration and side effects of local estrogen application in alopecia androgenetica].

Author: OrfanosC E, WüstnerH

No significant side effects

Topical estrogen treatment was evaluated in 30 male patients with androgenetic alopecia. The study found no significant differences in urinary estrogen levels between the treatment and control groups. No clinical side effects of estrogen application were observed.

English AbstractA summary of a research paper/publication written in English for a wider audience.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : German

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