Objective: To compare the effectiveness of tibolone and 17 beta-estradiol on climacteric symptoms, lipid and biochemical parameters in women with surgical menopause.
Methods: In a prospective randomised clinical trial group comparative study, the effects on the aforementioned parameters, as well as treatment compliance and side effects were studied with oral tibolone 2.5 mg per day and with transdermic 17 beta-estradiol at 50 microg per day for a period of 12 months. Statistical analysis was carried out using the Fisher-test, analysis of the variance (ANOVA) for the two factors and the Bouferoni test.
Results: Lipid metabolism analysis showed lower levels of HDL and triglycerides in the tibolone group. Other biochemical parameters were not affected. Similar reductions in climacteric symptoms were found in both the groups, but the tibolone group revealed a greater improvement in psychological problems and in sexual behaviour. No differences were observed with respect to compliance and side effects.
Conclusions: Tibolone is as effective or more than 17 beta-estradiol in reducing climacteric symptoms, and shows greater triglyceride and total cholesterol improvements. Tibolone is a good alternative to estrogens in women with surgical menopause.