Doctors in the UK have been told that they should not use HRT as a first choice in the treatment of osteoporosis (in women over 50). This comes after a study showed long-term HRT use may increase heart disease and cancer risk.

The Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (UK) said that doctors need not make urgent changes to existing treatments. (HRT’s main use is for the treatment of the menopause).

The Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) issued this advice after the Europe-wide study into the risks and benefits of HRT where revealed. The study involved more than one million women.

This is the second bit of advice UK doctors have received regarding HRT within the space of a few months. In August (2003) doctors were advised to give patients the smallest possible dose for the shortest length of time possible (for menopause).

The MHRA said that this advice was expected by most clinicians. It states that when no other therapies work, then HRT is still an option.

Women who are currently using HRT to treat osteoporosis have been advised to have the treatment reviewed at their next appointment.