Hormone Medication Side Effects

Hormone medications can replace the normal hormones that are depleted with aging or surgery. Women in menopause can find that hormone replacement medications alleviate hot flashes and other symptoms.

• Hormone medication can cause many different side effects.

Cancer Risk

• Women who take estrogen supplements experience an increased risk for endometrial, breast and ovarian cancer.

Heart Complications

• Hormone medications, especially oral supplements, increase the risk of heart attack and stroke in otherwise healthy patients.

Fluid Retention

• Bloating and fluid retention are uncomfortable side effects of taking hormone replacements.

PMS

• Women who are using hormone therapy often experience symptoms often associated with premenstrual syndrome, such as mood swings and breast tenderness.

Sexual

• Men and women who are using hormone treatments often experience a decreased interest in sex. Women experience vaginal dryness or bleeding, while men may experience erectile difficulties.

Ending Treatment

• Abruptly ending a hormone treatment can cause severe problems. Consult a doctor before ending treatment to avoid erratic mood swings, hot flashes and other side effects.