A PubMed search was done to identify relevant data about adverse drug reactions (ADRs) and mortality associated to hormones exposure. Furthermore, case reports of hormonal therapy-induced ADRs were identified in the French Pharmacovigilance DataBase (FPDB).
Review of currently available data showed an increase of thromboembolic effects and hyperprolactinemia with oestrogens. Both oestrogens and testosterone derivatives could induce hepatic effects. Currently, there is no significant association between hormone exposure and cancer or mortality in transsexual people. Five ADRs were found in FPDB, and two of them were related to misuse (voluntary overdose and prescription error).
Potential for under-reporting and under-identification in the FPDB of hormonal therapy-induced ADRs in transsexual people should be underlined. Technical improvement of the FPDB could facilitate further identification of reports concerning the risk associated with hormonal therapy in transsexual subjects.