HealthAre Changes to Menopausal Therapy on the Way? What's going on: A Food and Drug Administration (FDA) panel just backed removing the “black box” warning on estrogen-based hormone therapy — a label that’s served as a giant “do not touch” sign for over 20 years. The warning cautions against using estrogen to treat heart disease or dementia, citing potential complications like strokes and cognitive decline. Some experts argue those concerns were overstated, and panelists say the warning discouraged patients from treatment that could’ve helped them. Much of the concern stems from a 2002 study that focused too closely on women over 60. (The current average age of menopause in the US is just over 50.) That decades-old study has loomed large over menopause care for years, sparking debate and calls to revisit hormone therapy with more current research and context. Tell me more: While the panel can’t set policy, it could influence updates to the warning label and shift public sentiment. That’s raising concern among some health experts who say the panel appears to reflect a narrow point of view. The FDA commissioner, who’s leading the effort, supports hormone therapy. Some of the other experts have ties to pharma-backed groups and high-end clinics. Not helping: They recently met behind closed doors, with no public comment or FDA scientist input. A spokesperson for the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) told Axios the criticism was “insulting to the independent scientists, clinicians, and researchers” on the panel. As the debate continues, some experts are pushing for larger, more-current randomized trials and personalized treatment options. Related: Caffeine Pouches Are Here. So Are the Health Warnings (NBC News) | 
