What Is Combination HRT (C-HRT)

Two studies in 1975 revealed that women who used estrogen hormone replacements were at a much greater risk of developing cancer of the uterus, or endometrial cancer. The studies showed a nearly 4.5 times greater tendency towards uterine cancer in women using estrogen supplements.

In 1977 the FDA stated that estrogen replacements "are used too frequently and for too long, especially since their use for extended periods is associated with a 5 to 10 times higher risk of cancer to the uterus". In addition, the FDA also stated that estrogen replacements "should not be used to treat simple nervousness during menopause, because they have not been shown to be effective for that purpose.

As a result, by 1980, prescriptions for the drug had fallen by 50%. Not wanting to lose the tremendous profits generated by the hormone replacement market, drug manufacturers added something new to the mix. When the link between HRT's and uterine cancer was established, it was presented that adding more of the hormone called progesterone would balance the added estrogen and protect the uterus. Unfortunately, this theory was never subjected to long term testing by the drug manufacturers.

And again, manufacturers had the same problem as before: there was just no way to replicate human progesterone. Scientists created synthetic progesterone called MedroxyProgesterone Acetate, otherwise known as MPA or Progestin. Provera, created by Pfizer, became the best-selling brand of progestin. Hormone replacement therapy in the 1980's was a matter of two different pills ("P&P"), (estrogen from Wyeth) and Provera (by Pfizer). Combination hormone replacement therapy was a massive success, becoming the #1 selling drug in the US from 1990-1995. In 1995, Wyeth created Prempro, a combination drug with both Estrogen and Progestin.

After hormone replacement therapy sales dropped in the late 70s and early 80s (as a result of the link between estrogen replacement therapy and uterine cancer and questions regarding effectiveness in treating symptoms of menopause), drug manufacturers like Wyeth also tried another tactic for selling HRTs. The drugs were promoted as being able to help women not just with menopause, but with other health concerns. Wyeth even petitioned the FDA to allow Prempro to be labeled as protective against heart disease.

By 2000, hormone replacement therapy was a nearly 3 billion dollar business. However, serious questions about HRT effectiveness and side-effects soon became public knowledge.

If you or a loved one have used Prempro, and Provera or another combination hormone replacement therapy and have developed breast cancer, it's time to talk to a lawyer and protect your legal rights. Please contact us immediately at 800-966-4999 and see why our law firm has recovered over $100 million on behalf of our clients.

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