4 Things to Settle Before Stopping HRT

Book a prescribing review if you are considering stopping HRT. Bring the names and doses of every part of your regimen.

Four points for the discussion

1. Why you want to stop. Explain whether your concern is symptoms, side effects, cost or a change in your health. Ask how the clinician weighs the benefits and risks for you.¹

2. How each medicine will change. Stopping suddenly or reducing gradually are options. The patient guidance usually recommends reducing the dose over three to six months. Get instructions for your exact products.¹

3. What to do if symptoms return. Symptoms may recur after stopping. Agree on the symptoms to record and who to contact about returning symptoms.¹

4. When the decision will be reviewed. The guidance advises contacting a doctor if returning symptoms have not settled after three months. Agree whether your history calls for an earlier review and write down that date.¹

Make the reason for treatment explicit

With early or premature menopause, HRT can protect bones and is commonly advised until at least age 51. Discuss whether this applies to you.¹

Before leaving, read back the proposed changes. Ask what would prompt a call before the scheduled appointment and who will handle it. Keep the answers with your medicine list.

My Body Changed. Now What? lists a Change Map, symptom diary and Visit Brief. Use them to prepare the review. See the book.