Overview

• The FDA convened a panel Thursday to reexamine HRT after decades of conflicting evidence over its safety and declining use.
• FDA head Marty Makary, who has advocated for the therapy, cites potential benefits such as reduced Alzheimer’s risk and stronger bone and cardiovascular health when started early.
• The agency’s existing warning label flags risks including endometrial and breast cancer and life-threatening blood clots, while an American Family Physician editorial warned against overmedicalizing menopause.
• Several invited experts are affiliated with menopause treatment companies or the pharma-funded advocacy group 'Let's Talk Menopause,' prompting conflict-of-interest concerns.
• The panel is set to consider proposals to revise or remove the current warning label on HRT products.