The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) has issued an alert
The Veterinary Medicines Directorate has issued an alert on June 11 for people using hormone replacement therapy and testosterone replacement therapy . The warning is particularly directed at those who frequently interact with animals and pets, such as cats and dogs.
Due to their naturally inquisitive and affectionate nature, pets often stay close to their owners, making accidental exposure to topical hormone products more common than many might realise. Research indicates that pets can absorb oestrogen or testosterone through contact with areas of human skin where hormone gels and creams have been administered. The forearms are commonly recommended as an application site in medical guidelines, potentially heightening the chance of direct contact when cuddling or stroking pets.
Such routine interactions can result in unintended hormonal effects in animals, a hazard that many owners may not recognise, reports the Mirror. The risk can be managed straightforwardly with a few minor adjustments. It is crucial to note that you should not discontinue any prescribed medications if your pet shows signs of hormone exposure. What are topical hormone products?
Topical hormone products containing oestrogen and testosterone are human medicines applied to the skin as part of HRT and TRT. HRT gels and creams are used to alleviate menopause symptoms. TRT products are authorised to replace low testosterone levels, a condition known as hypogonadism. There is also a TRT product authorised for use in women for hypoactive sexual desire dysfunction .
What signs of accidental hormone exposure should vets and pet owners look for? Hormonal changes in pets caused by secondary exposure can vary depending on the animal's sex, with symptoms differing according to whether the animal has absorbed oestrogen or testosterone. Female pets, regardless of whether they have been spayed, may display signs similar to being in heat, such as vaginal bleeding and a swollen vulva. In pregnant animals, such exposure can result in birth defects.
Male pets may develop swollen mammary glands and a change in testicular size. Pets of either sex may experience hair loss, behavioural changes, increased attention from other animals, and a reduced growth rate. If exposed over a prolonged period, less common effects such as bone marrow suppression may also arise. What can you do to reduce risk?
To help minimise secondary exposure to your pet, the VMD recommends the following steps: What is the VMD doing about this? The VMD says it continually monitors all reports of suspected adverse events , not only from licensed veterinary medicines, but also from human medicines used in animals and accidental exposure to human medicines.
A statement on Gov.uk reads: "All cases are evaluated, and we perform statistical analysis of this data to identify groups of reports that could indicate a problem with a product. By sharing findings and raising awareness, the VMD aims to support vets and pet owners in making informed decisions when using the medicine.
" How do I report an adverse event? Should you become aware of an adverse reaction in an animal following contact with a human hormone product given to a person, submit a report directly to the VMD's adverse event reporting service. The VMD will utilise these reports to evaluate whether medicines continue to be safe and effective as intended, safeguarding animal, public, and environmental health.
Any adverse reactions in humans to approved human medicines should be reported to the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency through the Yellow Card scheme. The MHRA has also released guidance regarding the risks to children from accidental contact with Topical testosterone .
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