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Polasek D, Santhi N, Alfonso-Miller P, Walshe IH, Haskell-Ramsay CF, Elder GJ. Nutritional interventions in treating menopause-related sleep disturbances: a systematic review. Nutr Rev 2024; 82:1087-1110. [PMID: 37695299 PMCID: PMC11233886 DOI: 10.1093/nutrit/nuad113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Sleep disturbances are a core symptom of menopause, which refers to the permanent cessation of menstrual periods. Nutritional interventions may alleviate menopause-related sleep disturbances, as studies have shown that certain interventions (eg, tart cherry juice, or tryptophan-rich foods) can improve relevant aspects of sleep. OBJECTIVE The aim of this systematic review was to examine the effect of nutritional interventions for menopause-related sleep disturbances, in order to inform the subsequent development of specific interventional trials and assess their potential as a treatment for menopause-related sleep disturbances. DATA SOURCES Published studies in English were located by searching PubMed and PsycArticles databases (until September 15, 2022). DATA EXTRACTION Following full-text review, a final total of 59 articles were included. The search protocol was performed in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. DATA ANALYSIS A total of 37 studies reported that a nutritional intervention improved some aspect of sleep, and 22 studies observed no benefit. Most (n = 24) studies recruited postmenopausal women, 18 recruited menopausal women, 3 recruited perimenopausal women, and 14 recruited women from multiple groups. The majority of the studies were of low methodological quality. Due to the heterogeneity of the studies, a narrative synthesis without meta-analysis is reported. CONCLUSION Despite the large heterogeneity in the studies and choice of intervention, the majority of the identified studies reported that a nutritional intervention did benefit sleep, and that it is mainly subjective sleep that is improved. More high-quality, adequately powered, randomized controlled trials of the identified nutritional interventions are necessary. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION PROSPERO registration no. CRD42021262367.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominik Polasek
- Northumbria Sleep Research, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Nayantara Santhi
- Northumbria Sleep Research, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | | | - Ian H Walshe
- Department of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation, Northumbria University, Newcastle, UK
| | - Crystal F Haskell-Ramsay
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Greg J Elder
- Northumbria Sleep Research, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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Pandozzi C, Giannetta E, Tarsitano MG. Phytotherapic approach in menopause: light and darkness. Minerva Endocrinol (Torino) 2022; 47:421-436. [PMID: 35420287 DOI: 10.23736/s2724-6507.22.03712-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Menopause is a critical period of the woman life, characterized by a peculiar modification in estrogens concentration and accompanied by different signs and symptoms. To prevent and contrast unfavorable consequences of menopause, different therapeutic approaches could be evaluated. The hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is the most known, but it has several contraindications. The increasing interest in phytotherapy introduces the necessity for endocrinologist involved in menopause to suggest different therapeutic approaches, considering the state of health of patient and the real efficacy of the drugs. We aim to outline the main phytotherapy treatments to choose in menopause. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION This review is based on focused research of the current literature on PubMed and Scopus such as research databases. We selected 4120 papers through these keywords: "MENOPAUSE" AND "phytotherapy," "natural therapy," "phytoterapy drugs." Then, the literature was scanned selecting English papers of last 10 years (last research on October 1, 2021), excluding reviews. Separately, two researchers MGT and CP examined and read 212 full selected papers. We included clinical trials and randomized clinical trials written in English and excluded duplicates, animal studies and studies with lack of group of interest, non-relevant outcomes, inappropriate methodology. Retrospective studies, case reports, case series, original articles, brief communications, and letter to the editor were included in our research. We furthermore completed our research by the examination of every study's bibliography. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS Phytotherapy involves the use of plants or plant extracts for the treatment of diseases thanks to the activities of their compounds and metabolites. In particular, many of them have an estrogen-like activity and are identified as phytoestrogens, because thanks to their chemical structure are able to bind the estrogen receptors and carry out biological estrogenic or antiestrogenic activities. The supplementing diet with these compounds can ensure an advantage on various aspects of the climacteric syndrome and some of them also have a beneficial impact on cardiovascular risk, bone health and sleep complaint. These substances can be used with safety due to their good tolerability and low rate of side effects. There are no known serious adverse events associated with their consumption, but as a precaution, its use is not recommended during pregnancy and in association with hormonal therapies or in women with hormone responsive cancers. CONCLUSIONS Phytotherapy must be considered an interesting tool in the treatment of signs and symptoms in selected menopause woman.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Pandozzi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Elisa Giannetta
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria G Tarsitano
- Department of Clinical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Græcia University, Catanzaro, Italy
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López-Ríos L, Barber MA, Wiebe J, Machín RP, Vega-Morales T, Chirino R. Influence of a new botanical combination on quality of life in menopausal Spanish women: Results of a randomized, placebo-controlled pilot study. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0255015. [PMID: 34288973 PMCID: PMC8294509 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0255015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study was designed to evaluate the beneficial effects of a botanical extract combination containing soy isoflavone extract (100mg), Aframomum melegueta seed dry extract (50 mg), and Punica granatum skin dry extract (100mg) on health-related Quality of Life in healthy Spanish menopausal women with hot flashes, anxiety, and depressive symptoms using the validated Cervantes Scale. METHODS AND RESULTS Fifty-seven outpatient women (45-65 years) with menstrual problems associated with climacteric syndrome were enrolled from April 2018 to April 2019 in the context of a prospective, placebo-controlled, double-blind study. Women were randomized to receive treatment with either the botanical combination (250 mg daily divided into two doses) or placebo for eight weeks. At the beginning and end of the study, health-related Quality of Life was assessed using the Cervantes Scale. Subjects treated with the botanical extract, compared to subjects in the placebo group, showed a significant improvement in the Global health-related Quality of Life score (38% [11.3-50.0]% vs. 18.8% [0-37.7]%; P = 0.04) on the Cervantes Scale and, specifically, in the menopause and health domain (13.6% [0-45.4]% vs. 40.7% [20.6-61.0]%; P = 0.05). By contrast, there were no significant changes in the psychic, sexuality, and couple relationship related domains of the Cervantes Scale. Patients who concluded the study did not report substantial side effects. CONCLUSION Short-term intake of the botanical combination improved the Global Quality of Life of climateric women, according to the Cervantes Scale. Since this is a pilot trial, results should be analysed with caution. TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT04381026; ClinicalTrial.gov (retrospectively registered).
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura López-Ríos
- Department of Research, Development and Innovation, Nektium Pharma SL, Agüimes, Las Palmas, Spain
| | - Miguel A. Barber
- Gynecological Division, Baren Clinic, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Las Palmas, Spain
| | - Julia Wiebe
- Department of Research, Development and Innovation, Nektium Pharma SL, Agüimes, Las Palmas, Spain
| | - Rubén P. Machín
- Department of Research, Development and Innovation, Nektium Pharma SL, Agüimes, Las Palmas, Spain
| | - Tanausú Vega-Morales
- Department of Research, Development and Innovation, Nektium Pharma SL, Agüimes, Las Palmas, Spain
| | - Ricardo Chirino
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Physiology, Genetics and Immunology, Universidad de las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Las Palmas, Spain
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Vargiu V, Amar ID, Rosati A, Dinoi G, Turco LC, Capozzi VA, Scambia G, Villa P. Hormone replacement therapy and cervical cancer: a systematic review of the literature. Climacteric 2020; 24:120-127. [PMID: 33236658 DOI: 10.1080/13697137.2020.1826426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Gynecological tumor treatment, including cervical cancer (CC) treatment, often leads to iatrogenic premature menopause. This highlights the critical importance of investigating indications for hormone replacement therapy (HRT), as most patients, thanks to the improvement in diagnosis and treatment, have to deal with the sequelae of their cancer treatments for many years. This systematic review aims to provide an overview of the current knowledge regarding the risks of HRT and CC. In particular, we aim to investigate whether the use of HRT can increase CC incidence, and evaluate its risk in CC survivors. A systematic review, in agreement with PRISMA guidelines, of the English literature present in PubMed and SCOPUS has been performed. A total of 2805 articles have been screened, of which 10 were considered eligible. Several studies reported a significantly reduced risk of developing cervical squamous cell carcinoma in postmenopausal women treated with HRT, while a weak increase in the incidence of adenocarcinoma has been shown. No evidence reports a harmful effect of HRT on CC oncological outcome, while several benefits, in terms of reduced metabolic risk and increased quality of life, have been described, thus concluding that HRT should be offered to young CC survivors for the management of early menopause.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Vargiu
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - I D Amar
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - A Rosati
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - G Dinoi
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - L C Turco
- Gynecology and Breast Care Unit, Mater Olbia spa, Olbia, Italy.,Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Gemelli Molise spa, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Campobasso, Italy
| | - V A Capozzi
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - G Scambia
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy.,Department of Women's and Children's Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - P Villa
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy.,Department of Women's and Children's Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
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6
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Domínguez-López I, Yago-Aragón M, Salas-Huetos A, Tresserra-Rimbau A, Hurtado-Barroso S. Effects of Dietary Phytoestrogens on Hormones throughout a Human Lifespan: A Review. Nutrients 2020; 12:E2456. [PMID: 32824177 PMCID: PMC7468963 DOI: 10.3390/nu12082456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Revised: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Dietary phytoestrogens are bioactive compounds with estrogenic activity. With the growing popularity of plant-based diets, the intake of phytoestrogen-rich legumes (especially soy) and legume-derived foods has increased. Evidence from preclinical studies suggests these compounds may have an effect on hormones and health, although the results of human trials are unclear. The effects of dietary phytoestrogens depend on the exposure (phytoestrogen type, matrix, concentration, and bioavailability), ethnicity, hormone levels (related to age, sex, and physiological condition), and health status of the consumer. In this review, we have summarized the results of human studies on dietary phytoestrogens with the aim of assessing the possible hormone-dependent outcomes and health effects of their consumption throughout a lifespan, focusing on pregnancy, childhood, adulthood, and the premenopausal and postmenopausal stages. In pregnant women, an improvement of insulin metabolism has been reported in only one study. Sex hormone alterations have been found in the late stages of childhood, and goitrogenic effects in children with hypothyroidism. In premenopausal and postmenopausal women, the reported impacts on hormones are inconsistent, although beneficial goitrogenic effects and improved glycemic control and cardiovascular risk markers have been described in postmenopausal individuals. In adult men, different authors report goitrogenic effects and a reduction of insulin in non-alcoholic fatty liver patients. Further carefully designed studies are warranted to better elucidate the impact of phytoestrogen consumption on the endocrine system at different life stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inés Domínguez-López
- Department of Nutrition, Food Science and Gastronomy, XaRTA, INSA, School of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (I.D.-L.); (M.Y.-A.); (S.H.-B.)
| | - Maria Yago-Aragón
- Department of Nutrition, Food Science and Gastronomy, XaRTA, INSA, School of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (I.D.-L.); (M.Y.-A.); (S.H.-B.)
| | - Albert Salas-Huetos
- Andrology and IVF Laboratory, Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA;
| | - Anna Tresserra-Rimbau
- Department of Nutrition, Food Science and Gastronomy, XaRTA, INSA, School of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (I.D.-L.); (M.Y.-A.); (S.H.-B.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y la Nutrición (CIBEROBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Unitat de Nutrició, Departament de Bioquímica i Biotecnologia, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, 43204 Reus, Spain
- Institut d’Investigació Sanitària Pere Virgili (IISPV), 43201 Reus, Spain
| | - Sara Hurtado-Barroso
- Department of Nutrition, Food Science and Gastronomy, XaRTA, INSA, School of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (I.D.-L.); (M.Y.-A.); (S.H.-B.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y la Nutrición (CIBEROBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
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Kirichenko TV, Sukhorukov VN, Markin AM, Nikiforov NG, Liu PY, Sobenin IA, Tarasov VV, Orekhov AN, Aliev G. Medicinal Plants as a Potential and Successful Treatment Option in the Context of Atherosclerosis. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:403. [PMID: 32322201 PMCID: PMC7156611 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Accepted: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is a chronic multifactorial disease characterized by mainly changes of blood lipids profile and inflammation in vessel wall. The cardiovascular disease based on atherosclerosis is currently the leading cause of mortality in developed countries. Therefore, timely prevention and therapy of atherosclerosis are able to reduce the risk of the development of its clinical manifestations. Anti-atherosclerotic activity of medicinal plants mainly appears in their multiple effects such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-atherogenic, hypotensive, lipid-lowering, anti-thrombotic. Moreover, most of medicinal plants are characterized by their pleiotropic anti-atherosclerotic action. In addition, the medicinal plants-derived pharmacological substances and/or compounds are characterized by relative safety and fewer side effects that allows considering them as one of potential anti-atherosclerotic effective agents. The direct anti-atherosclerotic effect of some medicinal plants was confirmed in clinical trials of carotid Intima-media thickness (IMT) progression during long-term medication with medicinal plants. This review attempted to determine the current status of the databases PubMed and Scopus (until November, 2019) to investigate the medicinal plants possessing anti-atherosclerotic activity in experimental and clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana V. Kirichenko
- Laboratory of Infection Pathology and Molecular Microecology, Research Institute of Human Morphology, Moscow, Russia
- Laboratory of Angiopathology, Institute of General Pathology and Pathophysiology, Moscow, Russia
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, National Medical Research Center of Cardiology, Moscow, Russia
| | - Vasily N. Sukhorukov
- Laboratory of Infection Pathology and Molecular Microecology, Research Institute of Human Morphology, Moscow, Russia
- Laboratory of Angiopathology, Institute of General Pathology and Pathophysiology, Moscow, Russia
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, National Medical Research Center of Cardiology, Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexander M. Markin
- Laboratory of Infection Pathology and Molecular Microecology, Research Institute of Human Morphology, Moscow, Russia
| | - Nikita G. Nikiforov
- Laboratory of Angiopathology, Institute of General Pathology and Pathophysiology, Moscow, Russia
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, National Medical Research Center of Cardiology, Moscow, Russia
| | - Ping-Yen Liu
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Division of Cardiology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Igor A. Sobenin
- Laboratory of Infection Pathology and Molecular Microecology, Research Institute of Human Morphology, Moscow, Russia
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, National Medical Research Center of Cardiology, Moscow, Russia
| | - Vadim V. Tarasov
- Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexander N. Orekhov
- Laboratory of Infection Pathology and Molecular Microecology, Research Institute of Human Morphology, Moscow, Russia
- Laboratory of Angiopathology, Institute of General Pathology and Pathophysiology, Moscow, Russia
| | - Gjumrakch Aliev
- Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia
- Institute of Physiologically Active Compounds, Russian Academy of Sciences, Chernogolovka, Russia
- GALLY International Research Institute, San Antonio, TX, United States
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Research Institute of Human Morphology, Moscow, Russia
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Costa JPL, Brito HO, Galvão-Moreira LV, Brito LGO, Costa-Paiva L, Brito LMO. Randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial of the effect of Morus nigra L. (black mulberry) leaf powder on symptoms and quality of life among climacteric women. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2019; 148:243-252. [PMID: 31736077 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.13057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2019] [Revised: 09/03/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To test the efficacy of Morus nigra L. (MN) leaf powder for treating climacteric symptoms by comparison with hormone therapy (HT) and placebo. METHODS A randomized controlled trial among 62 climacteric women attending Hospital of the Federal University of Maranhão, Brazil. Women were divided into MN, HT, and placebo groups, and received 250 mg of MN leaf powder, 1 mg of estradiol, or placebo for 60 days. Primary outcomes were the Blatt-Kupperman index (BKI) for climacteric symptoms and SF-36 health questionnaire scores. RESULTS Baseline sociodemographic variables, BKI scores, symptoms, and SF-36 domains did not differ among the groups. There was a reduction in mean BKI in the MN (17.5 vs 9.7, P<0.001), HT (15.4 vs 8.6, P=0.001), and placebo (16.1 vs 12.4, P=0.040) groups. Analysis of quality of life (QoL) showed that functional capacity (P=0.006), vitality (P=0.031), mental health (P=0.017), and social aspect (P<0.01) improved after treatment in the MN group. The HT group showed improvement in emotional limitation (P=0.040), and the placebo group showed better functional capacity (P=0.030) after treatment. CONCLUSIONS Climacteric symptoms and QoL improved after administration of 250 mg of MN leaf powder for 60 days, similar to the effects of HT. The trial is registered in the Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials (REBEC) under registration number RBR-9t4xxk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joyce P L Costa
- Postgraduate Program in Adult Health, Federal University of Maranhão, São Luis, Maranhão, Brazil
| | - Haissa O Brito
- Postgraduate Program in Adult Health, Federal University of Maranhão, São Luis, Maranhão, Brazil
| | | | - Luiz G O Brito
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, State University of Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Lucia Costa-Paiva
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, State University of Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Luciane M O Brito
- Postgraduate Program in Adult Health, Federal University of Maranhão, São Luis, Maranhão, Brazil
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Iliodromiti S, Wang W, Lumsden MA, Hunter MS, Bell R, Mishra G, Hickey M. Variation in menopausal vasomotor symptoms outcomes in clinical trials: a systematic review. BJOG 2019; 127:320-333. [PMID: 31621155 PMCID: PMC6972542 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.15990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is substantial variation in how menopausal vasomotor symptoms are reported and measured among intervention studies. This has prevented meaningful comparisons between treatments and limited data synthesis. OBJECTIVES To review systematically the outcome reporting and measures used to assess menopausal vasomotor symptoms from randomised controlled trials of treatments. SEARCH STRATEGY We searched MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials from inception to May 2018. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised controlled trials with a primary outcome of menopausal vasomotor symptoms in women and a sample size of at least 20 women per study arm. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Data about study characteristics, primary vasomotor-related outcomes and methods of measuring them. MAIN RESULTS The search identified 5591 studies, 214 of which were included. Forty-nine different primary reported outcomes were identified for vasomotor symptoms and 16 different tools had been used to measure these outcomes. The most commonly reported outcomes were frequency (97/214), severity (116/214), and intensity (28/114) of vasomotor symptoms or a composite of these outcomes (68/214). There was little consistency in how the frequency and severity/intensity of vasomotor symptoms were defined. CONCLUSIONS There is substantial variation in how menopausal vasomotor symptoms have been reported and measured in treatment trials. Future studies should include standardised outcome measures which reflect the priorities of patients, clinicians, and researchers. This is most effectively achieved through the development of a Core Outcome Set. This systematic review is the first step towards development of a Core Outcome Set for menopausal vasomotor symptoms. TWEETABLE SUMMARY Menopausal hot flushes and night sweats have been reported in 49 different ways in clinical research. A core outcome set is urgently required.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Iliodromiti
- Women's Health Division, Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University London, London, UK.,School of Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - W Wang
- Department of Obstetrics, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - M A Lumsden
- School of Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - M S Hunter
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Kings College London, London, UK
| | - R Bell
- Women's Health Research Program, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - G Mishra
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Public Health, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - M Hickey
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne and The Royal Women's Hospital, Victoria, Australia
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De Franciscis P, Colacurci N, Riemma G, Conte A, Pittana E, Guida M, Schiattarella A. A Nutraceutical Approach to Menopausal Complaints. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 55:medicina55090544. [PMID: 31466381 PMCID: PMC6780855 DOI: 10.3390/medicina55090544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2019] [Revised: 08/22/2019] [Accepted: 08/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pasquale De Franciscis
- Department of Women, Child and General and Specialized Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Nicola Colacurci
- Department of Women, Child and General and Specialized Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Gaetano Riemma
- Department of Women, Child and General and Specialized Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Anna Conte
- Department of Women, Child and General and Specialized Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Erika Pittana
- Department of Women, Child and General and Specialized Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Maurizio Guida
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples "Federico II", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Antonio Schiattarella
- Department of Women, Child and General and Specialized Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138 Naples, Italy.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of nutraceuticals containing equol on vaginal health of postmenopausal women with vulvovaginal symptoms and dyspareunia. METHODS One hundred twenty-six natural postmenopausal women on +1b +1c (2 and 3-6 y after the final menstrual period, respectively) of the Stages of Reproductive Aging Workshop were enrolled in a nonrandomized trial. Of these, 72 women accepted to use nutraceutical (group A). The remaining 54 women refused the treatment and participated as the control group (group B). Group A was prescribed one tablet daily to take orally, for 8 months. All assessments were made at baseline and at 4 and 8 months. Determination of vaginal maturation index (VMI), evaluation of vaginal pH, and assessment of vaginal atrophy symptoms by the vaginal health index (VHI) were carried out. Dyspareunia score was also measured. RESULTS Group A had a significant increase in VMI (68 ± 5 vs 58 ± 8) and improvement of vaginal pH (4.1 ± 1.3 vs 5.1 ± 1.7) compared with baseline, mainly after 8 months of treatment (P < 0.001). Group A had an improvement of VHI after 4 (13 ± 3, P < 0.01) and 8 (16 ± 2, P < 0.001) months of nutraceutical intake. Dyspareunia reduced after 8 months (5.1 ± 1.3 vs 3.8 ± 1.2, P < 0.001) but not after 4 months (4.7 ± 1.1, P = 0.06) of treatment. Group B showed no changes from baseline evaluation (P = 0.22). CONCLUSIONS Nutraceuticals containing equol could be effective in modulating postmenopausal symptoms, particularly vaginal symptoms, and could be well accepted by the women who usually do not wish to use hormone therapy or cannot use it for medical reasons.
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Mareti E, Abatzi C, Vavilis D, Lambrinoudaki I, Goulis DG. Effect of oral phytoestrogens on endometrial thickness and breast density of perimenopausal and postmenopausal women: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Maturitas 2019; 124:81-88. [DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2019.03.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2019] [Revised: 03/10/2019] [Accepted: 03/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Marin R, Diaz M. Estrogen Interactions With Lipid Rafts Related to Neuroprotection. Impact of Brain Ageing and Menopause. Front Neurosci 2018; 12:128. [PMID: 29559883 PMCID: PMC5845729 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2018.00128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2017] [Accepted: 02/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Estrogens (E2) exert a plethora of neuroprotective actions against aged-associated brain diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD). Part of these actions takes place through binding to estrogen receptors (ER) embedded in signalosomes, where numerous signaling proteins are clustered. Signalosomes are preferentially located in lipid rafts which are dynamic membrane microstructures characterized by a peculiar lipid composition enriched in gangliosides, saturated fatty acids, cholesterol, and sphingolipids. Rapid E2 interactions with ER-related signalosomes appear to trigger intracellular signaling ultimately leading to the activation of molecular mechanisms against AD. We have previously observed that the reduction of E2 blood levels occurring during menopause induced disruption of ER-signalosomes at frontal cortical brain areas. These molecular changes may reduce neuronal protection activities, as similar ER signalosome derangements were observed in AD brains. The molecular impairments may be associated with changes in the lipid composition of lipid rafts observed in neurons during menopause and AD. These evidences indicate that the changes in lipid raft structure during aging may be at the basis of alterations in the activity of ER and other neuroprotective proteins integrated in these membrane microstructures. Moreover, E2 is a homeostatic modulator of lipid rafts. Recent work has pointed to this relevant aspect of E2 activity to preserve brain integrity, through mechanisms affecting lipid uptake and local biosynthesis in the brain. Some evidences have demonstrated that estrogens and the docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) exert synergistic effects to stabilize brain lipid matrix. DHA is essential to enhance molecular fluidity at the plasma membrane, promoting functional macromolecular interactions in signaling platforms. In support of this, DHA detriment in neuronal lipid rafts has been associated with the most common age-associated neuropathologies, namely AD and Parkinson disease. Altogether, these findings indicate that E2 may participate in brain preservation through a dual membrane-related mechanism. On the one hand, E2 interacting with ER related signalosomes may protect against neurotoxic insults. On the other hand, E2 may exert lipostatic actions to preserve lipid balance in neuronal membrane microdomains. The different aspects of the emerging multifunctional role of estrogens in membrane-related signalosomes will be discussed in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Marin
- Laboratory of Cellular Neurobiology, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain.,Fisiología y Biofísica de la Membrana Celular en Patologías Neurodegenerativas y Tumorales, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Cientificas, Unidad Asociada de Investigación, Universidad de La Laguna Tenerife, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Mario Diaz
- Fisiología y Biofísica de la Membrana Celular en Patologías Neurodegenerativas y Tumorales, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Cientificas, Unidad Asociada de Investigación, Universidad de La Laguna Tenerife, Tenerife, Spain.,Laboratory of Membrane Physiology and Biophysics, Department of Animal Biology, Edaphology and Geology, University of La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
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