Question 67

I am feeling better with Estratest, but I have acne.

Dear Doctor N,

I had a hysterectomy (left my ovaries) almost 9 years ago - I'm now 40 - and for the past few years have tried Premarin - to find that I gained weight, depressed and almost a nun! I tried Estratest for the past 3/4 months and its changed my life. I have energy to run again - have dropped about 20 lbs and feel like a 20 year old, my husband had almost given up on any activity and wonders what has happened to me (it does help to feel better about yourself...) - my only complaint is my skin looks like a 13 year old... I have acne now and have never had a problem before. I have to weigh the good and the bad and I have to say as ugly as this acne is on face, back and chest - its so much better than being grumpy & overweight! I sure feel better.

Thanks for your web page.

Reply:

I am glad that you are feeling better. The acne problem may resolve somewhat after you are on the Estratest for a while. You could try the Estratest HS if you want, which is a lower dose form, or you could speak to your doctor about Aldactone. This is a medication that blocks the effect of the testosterone on the skin and is effective in reducing this problem in many patients. Aldactone is also a mild diuretic.

Dr N