Evaluation of the applicability of HRT as a preservative of muscle strength in women.
OBJECTIVE
To review the studies that have been undertaken on the effects of postmenopausal hormone replacement therapy (HRT); especially oestrogen (+progestin) regimens on the preservation of muscle strength. Current knowledge of the mechanisms and actions of steroid- and sex hormones on skeletal muscle tissue will be used in an attempt to clarify the mechanism of action of a possible effect. The objective is to arrive at an agreement on whether or not postmenopausal oestrogen administration has a positive influence on skeletal muscle tissue.


METHODS
Peer-reviewed publications were assessed.


RESULTS
An age-related decrement in muscle strength can be found in both men and women. However, in women, an extra decline can be observed around the time of menopause. A possible relationship between the additional diminution in muscle strength and altered hormone concentrations after the onset of menopause has been suggested. Since women nowadays spend one-third of their life postmenopausal, it is extremely important to keep the decline in muscle mass as small as possible. Besides the continuation of a physically active lifestyle, HRT was suggested to serve as a protective mechanism. Although, the usefulness of HRT as a preservative of muscle strength appeared controversial.


CONCLUSIONS
Skeletal muscle strength is sensitive to training up to a high age, though continuation of physical activity does not appear to protect skeletal muscles completely from age-related decrements. Therefore, the development of another preventive method would be useful. Considering the present knowledge it has all the hallmarks that HRT can be a useful tool in the maintenance of muscle strength in postmenopausal women. None the less, further research is necessary to endorse this theory.
Meeuwsen
I B
IB
Mobility Laboratory, Department of Geriatrics and Bone Metabolism, University Medical Centre Utrecht, P.O. Box 85500 (room W01.209), NL-3508 GA, Utrecht, The Netherlands. i.meeuwsen@digd.azu.nl
Samson
M M
MM
Verhaar
H J
HJ
D000375:Aging / Q000187:drug effects / Q000502:physiology; D005260:Female; D020249:Hormone Replacement Therapy; D006801:Humans; D008593:Menopause / Q000187:drug effects / Q000502:physiology; D018482:Muscle, Skeletal / Q000187:drug effects / Q000502:physiology*; D010052:Ovariectomy