Experts Caution on ‘Bioidentical’ Hormones

Medical research has shown that long-term hormone replacement therapy can increase the risk of breast cancer. So many women with menopause symptoms are looking for alternatives. Some are turning to “bioidentical” hormones, the Associated Press said October 26. Actor Suzanne Somers praised these compounds in a book she wrote. The hormones are compounded for each woman by a pharmacist. But they have not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Many of them contain estriol. This form of estrogen is not approved for sale in the United States. Experts say there’s a lack of research about these compounds. Thus there’s no proof that they are safe or effective. And they may have the same risks as conventional hormone therapy.