A Nutraceutical Approach to Menopausal Complaints

Medicina (Kaunas). 2019 Aug 28;55(9):544. doi: 10.3390/medicina55090544.

Abstract

The menopausal transition, or perimenopause, is characterized by menstrual irregularities, vasomotor symptoms, sleep disturbances, mood symptoms, and urogenital tract atrophy. These changes can also affect the quality of life and one's self-esteem. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is considered the best option to achieve therapeutic relief of different menopausal symptoms but is usually restricted to moderate or severe symptoms. Moreover, many women refuse HRT for a variety of reasons concerning the fear of cancer and other adverse effects. According to these considerations, new topics are emerging: Dissatisfaction with drug costs and conventional healthcare, desire for personalized medicines, and the public perception that "natural is good". In this context, nonhormonal therapies are mostly evolving, and it is not unusual that women often request a "natural" approach for their symptoms. The aim of this study is to investigate nonhormonal therapies that have been identified to reduce the menopausal symptoms.

Keywords: Agnus castus; isoflavones; menopausal symptoms; menopause; natural approach; nutraceuticals; sleep disturbances; supplementation; vasomotor symptoms.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Contraindications, Drug
  • Dietary Supplements*
  • Hormone Replacement Therapy
  • Hot Flashes / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • Menopause*
  • Osteoporosis, Postmenopausal / prevention & control
  • Phytoestrogens / adverse effects
  • Phytoestrogens / therapeutic use
  • Phytotherapy* / adverse effects
  • Sleep Wake Disorders / drug therapy
  • Vitamins / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Phytoestrogens
  • Vitamins