I'm 55 and been in menopause 10 years. I never had symtoms but used Ostaderm for many years to help with bone loss. When I was diagnosed with Osteoporsis I stopped using the Ostaderm. I'm on Fosamax now. But when I stopped the Ostaderm I got hot flashes with a vengence. For a year and half I tried all the alternatives (black cohosh combos, etc) and do revival shake daily. Nothing helped until I started using Ostaderm again. I was going to just use it for a few months relief and try to wean off it more gradually with hopes the hot flashes will stay gone. I'm wondering if there are any studies indicating if it's any safer to use than traditional HRT? I'm concerned about the possibility of increased risk for breast cancer (it runs in my family). I'd be most appreciative if you could direct me to anything about this topic. Is it safe to continue use for extended years? Thanks! Sheila in Seattle