What is Kliovance and what is it used for?
Kliovance is a continuous combined form of hormone replacement therapy (HRT), used to treat symptoms of the menopause. Each tablet has two active ingredients, which imitate the two female sex hormones: a natural version of the oestrogen (estradiol) and a synthetic version of progestogen (norethisterone). Compared to other HRT treatments, Kliovance has a lower dose of oestrogen and progesterone. It is, therefore, suitable for women who tend to be more sensitive to hormones.
Some forms of HRT contain oestrogen-only, such as Estradot Patches, however, in women who still have a uterus, an uncontrolled increase in oestrogen levels will cause the lining of the uterus (the endometrium) to grow excessively, which can lead to cancer. So, each Kliovance tablet also contains 0.5mg of norethisterone acetate, a synthetic version of progesterone to significantly reduce this risk.
This form of HRT does not involve a regular period. For this reason, Kliovance is suited for women who have already reached the menopause but still suffer from distressing symptoms. You should review your HRT with your GP at least once each year and have regular gynaecological checkups.
What is the menopause?
All women go through the menopause. This usually occurs between the ages of 45 and 55. As you approach this age, your ovaries will produce less and less oestrogen. This has the effect of stopping the menstrual cycle, but the change in hormone levels can lead to several symptoms that may substantially impact day-to-day life.
Physical symptoms include:
- Hot flushes (a spontaneous heat that spreads throughout the body, leading to blushing, sweating and an unusually strong heartbeat)
- Night sweats
- Osteoporosis
- Dryness of the eyes or vagina
- Irritability
- Insomnia
- Depression
Experiences with menopausal symptoms vary significantly depending on the individual. They can begin multiple years before menopause itself and remain for many years. Women will, on average, experience symptoms for about four years.
How does HRT work?
Hormone replacement therapy, including Kliovance help to ease the symptoms of menopause by supplementing the levels of hormones that the body, up until now, has produced naturally. Because each Kliovance tablet contains the same amount of both oestrogen and progesterone, women would not expect to experience a monthly bleed while taking this form of HRT.
As the body adjusts to Kliovance, some women may notice breakthrough bleeding or spotting. Talk to your GP if this continues after more than a few months of treatment. HRT should only be necessary as a relatively short-term treatment as your body adjusts to the menopause.
Click through to find out more about Kliovance dosage and how long Kliovance takes to work.
Kliovance and pregnancy
HRT will not prevent pregnancy in otherwise fertile women. Women under 50 are considered fertile until two years after their final menstrual cycle (for women over 50, this is reduced to one year). Do not use a hormonal contraceptive while undergoing HRT.
Alternatives to Kliovance
At The Independent Pharmacy, we stock a wide range of HRT, including alternative tablets, patches and vaginal gels that are available on prescription. For more information on HRT please visit our Advice for Menopause (HRT) page.
If you are unsure whether starting any form of HRT is the right option for you. It is recommended that you try non-medicinal alternatives to help relieve your symptoms. Some suggestions to try include:
For Night Sweats and Hot Flushes
- Using A fan
- Cool Showers
- Wearing light clothing
Vaginal Dryness
Other Alternatives
- A healthy diet and regular exercise
- Stopping Smoking
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