One of the clinical studies involved 16,608 women with a uterus who took either estrogen plus progestin therapy (specifically, Prempro™, manufactured by Wyeth) or a placebo (a substance that looks like the real drug but has no biologic effect). The main goal was to see if the therapy would help prevent heart disease and hip fractures. Another goal was to see if those possible benefits were greater than the possible risks for breast cancer, endometrial cancer, and blood clots. Another arm of the WHI studied estrogen only. That arm of the study continues. However, the first study was halted on July 9, 2002, after 5.2 years, because the NHBLI determined that the risks to those participating in the study outweighed the benefits.

While the study did determine some benefits to the estrogen plus progestin regimen; in that is reduced the risk of colorectal cancer and bone fractures, other results were disheartening. The study revealed that not only did the therapy not protect against heart diseases, but actually increased the chance of heart attacks, blood clots and strokes.

The study was specifically stopped because the estrogen/progestin therapy resulted in a 26% increase in breast cancer.

It also resulted in:

• Strokes - 41% Increase
• Heart Attacks - 29% Increase
• Blood Clots - 105% Increase
• Heart Disease - 22% Increase

If you or a loved one took Prempro, Premarin or another hormone replacement therapy and have breast cancer, blood clots, stroke, heart disease or other complications, click here to have an attorney evaluate your case for free, with no obligation. Or, call toll free, 877.786.1LAW (1529). Any information you submit is kept private and confidential and is used for the sole purpose of evaluating your potential case.