Sex Hormone Therapies and Alzheimer's Disease: Prevention vs Treatment

Key factors influencing MHT efficacy to sustain brain health are stage of the menopausal transition when MHT is initiated and its formulation. MHT initiated early in the menopausal transition for menopausal symptoms has the strongest evidence for sustaining cognitive function and reducing Alzheimer's risk. In contrast, administration of MHT after the menopausal transition is associated with modest increased risk of Alzheimer's. MHT formulation, particularly the progestogen component, can significantly impact efficacy on neural outcomes. Overall, the data are consistent with efficacy of MHT to sustain brain health not to reverse disease. Precision Menopausal Hormone Therapy is an unmet need in women's brain health which has the potential to alter the risk profile in those at greatest risk for Alzheimer's. Research supported by National Institute of Aging, Alzheimer's Association and ADDF.