Effects of estrogen versus estrogen and progesterone on cortisol and interleukin-6.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of 3 months of estrogen replacement therapy, estrogen plus progesterone replacement therapy and a placebo, on the resting cortisol and interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels in post-menopausal women.


METHODS
Forty-three women were randomised to one of three treatment arms: estradiol 2mg/day (ERT), estradiol 2mg/day plus medroxyprogesterone acetate 5mg/day (HRT), or a placebo that was administered orally for 3 months.


RESULTS
Cortisol levels showed a significant condition by intervention interaction. Post hoc tests showed that ERT significantly increased cortisol levels after treatment compared to baseline, while in the HRT group a trend toward increased cortisol was found. No changes were observed in IL-6 levels.


CONCLUSIONS
Estrogen administration elevated cortisol levels, but this effect may be moderated by progestins. IL-6 was not altered by ERT or HRT, future studies should consider the interaction of cortisol increases on change in IL-6 expression.
Edwards
Kate M
KM
School of Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK. k.edwards@bham.ac.uk
Mills
Paul J
PJ
D016022:Case-Control Studies; D015914:Estrogen Replacement Therapy; D004967:Estrogens / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006854:Hydrocortisone / Q000097:blood*; D015850:Interleukin-6 / Q000097:blood*; D008875:Middle Aged; D017698:Postmenopause / Q000097:blood*; D011374:Progesterone / Q000627:therapeutic use*
D004967:Estrogens; D015850:Interleukin-6; D011374:Progesterone; D006854:Hydrocortisone