Can Estrogen Therapy (ET) cause anxiety?

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Last updated: March 4, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Research

Estrogen Therapy (ET) is not directly associated with causing anxiety, as the provided evidence does not support a link between ET and anxiety. The question of whether Estrogen Therapy (ET) can cause anxiety is not directly addressed by the provided studies, which focus on various other topics such as electroconvulsive therapy-related anxiety, treatment of generalized anxiety disorder, exercise training for anxiety, and comparative effectiveness of cognitive behavioral treatment and pharmacotherapy for anxiety in children and adolescents. Given the lack of direct evidence linking ET to anxiety, it's essential to consider the potential effects of ET on mental health in the context of available research.

  • The most recent and highest quality study provided is from 2023 1, which discusses the comparative effectiveness of cognitive behavioral treatment, serotonin, and serotonin noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors for anxiety in children and adolescents, but does not mention ET.
  • Another relevant study from 2022 2 combines selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and cognitive behavioral therapy in youth with depression and anxiety, also without mentioning ET.
  • Since none of the provided studies directly investigate the relationship between ET and anxiety, it is crucial to consult more specific and relevant research on ET and its effects on mental health, particularly anxiety, to make an informed decision. In real-life clinical practice, when considering the potential impact of ET on anxiety, it is essential to prioritize the individual patient's medical history, current health status, and any previous experiences with ET or anxiety disorders.
  • A thorough evaluation of the patient's overall health and mental well-being is necessary to determine the best course of treatment.
  • Healthcare providers should be cautious and consider the potential risks and benefits of ET in relation to anxiety, even if the current evidence does not directly support a link between the two.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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