APA Dictionary of Psychology

hormone replacement therapy (HRT)

Updated on 04/19/2018

the administration of sex hormones either to relieve menopausal symptoms in women or to increase testosterone levels in men. For women, the use of HRT, usually with an estrogen (see estrogen replacement therapy) or a combined estrogen–progestin preparation, is controversial, since long-term use may increase the risk of breast cancer, cardiovascular disease, stroke, and other conditions associated with the aging process. For men, HRT with testosterone is used to treat hypogonadism. Its efficacy in increasing sex drive in men with lower testosterone levels due to normal aging or as a treatment for erectile dysfunction is inconclusive.
the administration of any other hormone to treat a hormone deficiency, such as thyroid hormone to treat hypothyroidism.

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