Question 278 of 433
Are hormones longevity drugs?
The short answer
Hormones treat specific conditions. Menopause therapy can relieve symptoms and reduce fractures in appropriate women; it is not an established prescription solely to extend life.
Timing helps determine the balance of benefits and risks. Some analyses are reassuring for women who begin treatment nearer menopause, but the Women’s Health Initiative’s long-term pooled mortality results did not establish an overall survival advantage. Observational findings and age-subgroup signals should not be presented as a universal longevity effect.
Testosterone can help men with confirmed symptomatic hypogonadism. It has not established longer life, and improved bone density is not proof of fewer fractures. Growth hormone for otherwise healthy aging has no demonstrated net benefit and carries important risks.
Use a hormone to address a defined need, choose an appropriate formulation, and reassess. “Replacement” describes an intention; evidence and individual circumstances decide whether the treatment is helpful.
“This book is for education. It is not medical advice, and reading it does not make you my patient or create a doctor-patient relationship.” From the book’s medical disclaimer. Full disclaimer
ROBUST for indicated menopausal symptom relief and fracture benefit; NOT ESTABLISHED as treatment solely to extend life.Evidence grade (draft mapping)ARobust human trialsPart 19, Q278 · Sources: R5
Sources cited
- R5 Manson JE et al. Menopausal Hormone Therapy and Long-term All-Cause and Cause-Specific Mortality: The Women’s Health Initiative Randomized Trials. JAMA. 2017;318:927–938. doi:10.1001/jama.2017.11217. PubMed 28898378DOI 10.1001/jama.2017.11217✓ Verified
From Longevity Unmasked by Afshine Ash Emrani, MD, FACC. Medical disclaimer. This book is for education. It is not medical advice, and reading it does not make you my patient or create a doctor-patient relationship. Nothing here is meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Medicine is personal: a test, drug, supplement, or exercise plan that helps one person can harm another. Do not start, stop, or change any medication or treatment because of something you read in these pages. Talk with a licensed clinician who knows your history first. If you think you are having a medical emergency, call 911. The author disclaims responsibility for any loss or harm arising from use of the information in this book.