Effects of tibolone on serum concentrations of lipoprotein(a) in postmenopausal women.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effects of tibolone (Org OD14), a synthetic steroid used for the relief of postmenopausal symptoms, on serum concentrations of lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)), an independent risk marker for coronary heart disease.

DESIGN

Subset of women participating in a non-randomized prospective trial of tibolone therapy. Twenty-seven women requesting relief of menopausal symptoms were treated with tibolone 2.5 mg/day for six months; 27 women who did not request treatment acted as controls.

RESULTS

Tibolone induced a substantial fall (p < 0.001) in serum Lp(a) levels (median change -48%, range -100% to +3%).

CONCLUSIONS

In terms of cardiovascular risk, the ability of tibolone to lower serum concentrations of Lp(a) may be advantageous in view of the unwanted reduction in high density lipoprotein concentrations which has previously been demonstrated in users of this steroid.