Quality of life and patient preference for sequential versus continuous combined HRT: the UK Kliofem® multicenter study experience

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Abstract
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) must be taken for many years to attain the long‐term benefits on osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease. However, this level of compliance with HRT is rarely achieved. This analysis documents the effect of continuous combined HRT with Kliogest® on the relief of menopausal symptoms, and the patient preference for HRT over a 9‐month treatment period. A total of 2151 postmenopausal women, of whom 1435 were currently on sequential therapy and 716 had not been previously treated, were enrolled from 55 centers in the UK. Women received a daily tablet of Kliogest for 9 months. Quality of life was assessed using the Greene Climacteric Scale, and the women completed patient preference questionnaires. Treatment with continuous combined therapy was at least as effective as previous sequential regimens in alleviating menopausal symptoms. By the study conclusion, patient preference was strongly in favor of Kliogest with 91% of completers preferring it to their previous sequential therapy. Improved quality of life and patient preference for continuous combined therapy may encourage long‐term compliance with treatment, allowing more women to experience the long‐term beneficial effects of HRT on osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease.