The effect of long-term oestrogen replacement therapy on glucose and lipid metabolism in postmenopausal women.

A prospective study was undertaken to determine the effect on carbohydrate and lipid metabolism of long-term oestrogen replacement therapy in an unselected group of 34 postmenopausal women. Treatment was with cyclically-administered conjugated oestrogen (1,25 mg daily) for 24-43 months. Each patient served as her own control. The mean 2-hour postglucose level for the group at the end of the study was greater than the original baseline values, but the difference was not statistically significant. The mean serum cholesterol pre-beta-lipoprotein and beta-lipoprotein levels for the group were significantly reduced. Triglycerides were unaffected. It is suggested that treatment with conjugated oestrogens can maintain a normal lipid profile, provided that the original levels are within normal limits and that therapy is instituted early and is maintained. Carbohydrate and lipid metabolism in the majority of postmenopausal women on long-term conjugated oestrogen therapy will not be adversely affected.