From the Guidelines
There are no medications specifically approved for increasing breast size, and any hormonal medications that may cause breast enlargement as a side effect should be used under medical supervision due to potential serious side effects. Some hormonal medications like birth control pills containing estrogen and progesterone may cause temporary breast enlargement as a side effect, but this is not their intended purpose and results vary significantly between individuals 1. Hormone replacement therapy used by transgender women typically includes estrogen (such as estradiol, 2-6mg daily) and sometimes anti-androgens (like spironolactone, 100-200mg daily), which can promote breast development as part of gender-affirming care. However, these medications require medical supervision due to potential serious side effects including blood clots, liver problems, and increased risk of certain cancers. They are not recommended solely for cosmetic breast enhancement in cisgender women. The breast tissue responds to hormonal stimulation because breast development is naturally regulated by hormones, particularly estrogen which promotes growth of mammary ducts and progesterone which stimulates the development of lobules. For those seeking breast enhancement, non-medication approaches like surgical augmentation provide more predictable results. Always consult with a healthcare provider before considering any medication that might affect hormone levels.
Key Considerations
- Hormonal medications can have serious side effects and should be used under medical supervision
- Breast tissue responds to hormonal stimulation, particularly estrogen and progesterone
- Non-medication approaches like surgical augmentation may provide more predictable results for breast enhancement
- Consult with a healthcare provider before considering any medication that might affect hormone levels
Potential Medications
- Estrogen (such as estradiol, 2-6mg daily)
- Anti-androgens (like spironolactone, 100-200mg daily)
- Birth control pills containing estrogen and progesterone (may cause temporary breast enlargement as a side effect)
From the FDA Drug Label
The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Medications that Increase Breast Size
There are no research papers provided that directly assist in answering the question of medications that increase breast size. The studies provided focus on breast cancer treatment, endocrine therapy, and the effects of estrogen and progesterone on breast cancer cells and blood coagulation.
- The studies 2, 3, 4 discuss the treatment of breast cancer, including endocrine therapy and its effects on overall survival and disease-free survival.
- Study 5 examines the interaction between the progesterone receptor and the estrogen receptor in breast cancer cells.
- Study 6 investigates the effects of oral and transdermal estrogen/progesterone regimens on sensitivity to activated protein C among postmenopausal women.
Relevant Hormones
While the studies do not directly address medications that increase breast size, they do discuss the role of hormones such as estrogen and progesterone in breast cancer treatment and their effects on breast tissue.