Double-blind placebo-controlled study to evaluate the effect of pro-juven progesterone cream on atherosclerosis and bone density

Abstract

Objective

To establish whether treatment for three years with pro-juven progesterone cream affects progression of atherosclerotic plaques or bone density in postmenopausal women.

Design

Randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial.

Sample

One hundred and thirty-one healthy postmenopausal women aged between 50 and 75 years with at least one asymptomatic arterial plaque visible on ultrasound of the carotid or femoral bifurcation.

Methods

Women were randomly allocated to receive pro-juven progesterone cream, 20 mg twice daily, or placebo, for three years.

Main outcome measure

Rate of change of plaque thickness, intima-media thickness and bone density of lumbar spine and femoral neck.

Results

There was no difference between the groups.

Conclusion

Pro-juven progesterone cream 20 mg twice daily did not affect progression of asymptomatic atherosclerosis or deterioration in bone density over three years.