Clinical pearls of gender-affirming hormone therapy in transgender patients

Abstract

Despite the growing visibility of transgender individuals in the mainstream media, this population still encounters discrimination as well as many barriers to receiving appropriate care. Of note, not all medical providers are familiar with gender-affirming hormone treatment for transgender patients. Gender-affirming hormone treatment is used in transgender patients to reduce characteristics of their natal sex and induce those of their desired sex. Pharmacists have a potential role to make a positive impact by providing information regarding gender-affirming hormone treatment. This article aims to give an overview of the medications used in gender-affirming hormone treatment, the desired effects caused by these medications, the expected timeline to achieving these effects, and to provide information as to where these treatment guidelines can be found.