Health
Lifestyle changes and supplements for mild menopause symptoms
NEWS IN BRIEF — Posted Feb. 9, 2004
Regular exercise and herbs should be considered to alleviate mild hot flashes, but hormone therapy is still standard for more severe cases, according to a position statement published in January by the North American Menopause Society.
The paper stated that, although many of the nonprescription remedies currently being used -- such as isoflavone supplements or black cohosh -- have little clinical data to support their efficacy, there are also no serious side effects.
These substances should, therefore, be an option. For women with severe symptoms who have contraindications to hormone therapy, other prescription medications such as antidepressants and anticonvulsants should be discussed.
Note: This item originally appeared at http://www.ama-assn.org/amednews/2004/02/09/hlbf0209.htm.