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Kim C, Lee G, Song C. The Effect of Short-term Inhalation of Fir Essential Oil on Autonomic Nervous Activity in Middle-aged Women. Explore (NY) 2023; 19:820-826. [PMID: 37120331 DOI: 10.1016/j.explore.2023.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the effect of short-term inhalation of fir essential oil on autonomic nervous activity in middle-aged women. Twenty-six women (mean age, 51.0 ± 2.9 years) participated in this study. The participants sat on a chair, closed their eyes, and inhaled fir essential oil and room air (control) for 3 min. A crossover trial was performed to eliminate the effect of the order of olfactory stimulation. Approximately half of the participants were administered stimuli in the following order: exposure to fir essential oil, then control. The remaining participants were administered control, followed by fir essential oil. Heart rate variability, heart rate, blood pressure, and pulse rate were used as indicators of the autonomic nervous system activity. The Semantic Differential method and Profile of Mood States were used as psychological indicators. The High Frequency (HF) value, an indicator of parasympathetic nerve activity reflecting a relaxed state, was significantly higher during stimulation with fir essential oil than during the control condition. The Low Frequency (LF)/(LF+HF) value, an indicator of sympathetic nerve activity reflecting awake state, was marginally lower during stimulation with fir essential oil than during the control condition. No significant differences were found in heart rate, blood pressure, and pulse rate. After inhaling fir essential oil, "comfortable," "relaxed," and "natural" feelings improved, negative moods decreased, and positive moods increased. In conclusion, inhalation of fir essential oil can help menopausal women in their physiological and psychological relaxation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Choyun Kim
- Department of Forest Science, Kongju National University, 54 Daehak-ro, Yesan-eup, Yesan-gun, Chungcheongnam-do 32439, South Korea
| | - Gayoung Lee
- Department of Forest Science, Kongju National University, 54 Daehak-ro, Yesan-eup, Yesan-gun, Chungcheongnam-do 32439, South Korea
| | - Chorong Song
- Department of Forest Science, Kongju National University, 54 Daehak-ro, Yesan-eup, Yesan-gun, Chungcheongnam-do 32439, South Korea.
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Stabile G, Ricci G, Scalia MS, De Seta F. Induced Dryness Stress on Human Vaginal Epithelium: The Efficacy of a New Vaginal Gel. Gels 2021; 7:gels7040157. [PMID: 34698175 PMCID: PMC8544400 DOI: 10.3390/gels7040157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
An experimental model of dryness on vaginal mucosa is proposed to assess the efficacy of a new vaginal gel (Respecta® Hydragel Ref 17031). The dryness model was induced on reconstituted human vaginal epithelium (HVE) by incubating the tissues in modified environmental conditions (R.H. < 50% and T = 40 °C) for 48 h. The products were applied on the ‘Dry’ HVE models for 24 h (series 48 h + 24 h) in standard culture conditions (37 °C 5% CO2). Their efficacy in counteracting vaginal dryness was assessed and compared to tissues treated with saline solution and cultured in standard culture conditions (negative control) and to untreated tissues incubated in dryness conditions for 48 h and then recovered after 24 h in standard culture conditions (positive control). The products’ efficacy was quantified by measuring the following parameters: (1) water flux and direct moisturization by AQP3 immunohistochemical staining, and (2) maintenance of moisturization and elasticity of the mucosa by hyaluronic acid (CD44) immunofluorescence staining. Respecta® Hydragel demonstrated efficacy in regulating the water flux by inducing AQP3 expression thus determining a positive water balance within the vaginal epithelium. It induced a remodelling of the epithelium morphology with restored trophism compared to the dry HVE control. Furthermore, it demonstrated a significant increase of the expression of CD44, related to hyaluronic acid (HA) distribution in the extracellular matrix. HA has the ability to act on the cellular matrix composition and its renewal compared to the dry HVE control. Through these mechanisms it induces a deep hydration and elasticity of the vaginal mucosa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guglielmo Stabile
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health—IRCCS “Burlo Garofolo”, 34137 Trieste, Italy; (G.R.); (F.D.S.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Giuseppe Ricci
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health—IRCCS “Burlo Garofolo”, 34137 Trieste, Italy; (G.R.); (F.D.S.)
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy;
| | - Maria Sole Scalia
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy;
| | - Francesco De Seta
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health—IRCCS “Burlo Garofolo”, 34137 Trieste, Italy; (G.R.); (F.D.S.)
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy;
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Harrath AH, Jalouli M, Oueslati MH, Farah MA, Feriani A, Aldahmash W, Aldawood N, Al-Anazi K, Falodah F, Swelum A, Alwasel S. The flavonoid, kaempferol-3-O-apiofuranosyl-7-O-rhamnopyranosyl, as a potential therapeutic agent for breast cancer with a promoting effect on ovarian function. Phytother Res 2021; 35:6170-6180. [PMID: 33908658 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
It is widely known that breast cancer cells eventually develop resistance to hormonal drugs and chemotherapies, which often compromise fertility. This study aimed to investigate the effect of the flavonoid, kaempferol-3-O-apiofuranosyl-7-O-rhamnopyranosyl (KARP), on 1) the viability of MCF-7 breast cancer cells and 2) ovarian function in rats. A dose-dependent decrease in MCF-7 cell survival was observed, and the IC50 value was found to be 48 μg/ml. Cells in the control group or those exposed to increasing concentrations of KARP experienced a similar generation of reactive oxygen species and induction of apoptosis. For the rats, estradiol levels correlated negatively to KARP dosages, although a recovery was obtained at administration of 30 mg/kg per day. Noteworthily, when compared against the control, this dosage led to significant increases in mRNA levels for CYP19, CYP17a, CCND2, GDF9, and INSL3 among the treatment groups, and ER1 and ER2 mRNA levels decreased in a dose-dependent manner. KARP shows great promise as an ideal therapy for breast cancer patients since it induced apoptosis and autophagy in cancerous cells without harming fertility in our animal model. Future investigations on humans are necessary to substantiate these findings and determine its efficacy as a general line of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdel Halim Harrath
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Maroua Jalouli
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Mohammad Abul Farah
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Anouar Feriani
- Research Unit of Macromolecular Biochemistry and Genetics, Faculty of Sciences, University of Gafsa, Tunisia
| | - Waleed Aldahmash
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nouf Aldawood
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khalid Al-Anazi
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fawaz Falodah
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ayman Swelum
- Department of Animal Production, College of Food and Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saleh Alwasel
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Li Y, Dreher JC. A review of the impact of hormone therapy on prefrontal structure and function at menopause. Climacteric 2021; 24:340-349. [PMID: 33703983 DOI: 10.1080/13697137.2021.1889500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The menopause transition arises mainly from a decline in ovarian function characterized by a decrease in levels of ovarian estrogens (estradiol) and progesterone in women. Menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) has been used to counteract menopause-associated symptoms in postmenopausal women. With the development of advanced brain imaging methods, understanding MHT-related effects on brain structures and functions could help advance our understanding of the biological consequence of MHT-related effects on behavior, thereby contributing to developing new strategies for optimizing brain health during the menopause transition. This review focuses on the human research related to the impact of MHT on structural and functional organization of the prefrontal cortex in postmenopausal women. Although such MHT-related effects on brain structures and functions have only begun to be understood, it may be useful to examine present findings to identify areas for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Li
- Reward, Competition and Social Neuroscience Laboratory, Department of Psychology, School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.,Institute for Brain Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - J-C Dreher
- Reward, Competition and Social Neuroscience Laboratory, Department of Psychology, School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.,Institute for Brain Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.,Neuroeconomics Laboratory, Institut des Sciences Cognitives Marc Jeannerod, CNRS UMR 5229, Bron, France
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Gliniewicz K, Schneider GM, Ridenhour BJ, Williams CJ, Song Y, Farage MA, Miller K, Forney LJ. Comparison of the Vaginal Microbiomes of Premenopausal and Postmenopausal Women. Front Microbiol 2019; 10:193. [PMID: 30837959 PMCID: PMC6382698 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2019.00193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2018] [Accepted: 01/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
For decades hormone therapy (HT) has been prescribed to treat the symptoms of menopause, such as vaginal dryness, itching and burning. Here we sought to compare the vaginal microbiomes of postmenopausal women who received low dose estrogen therapy to those of premenopausal and postmenopausal women, and to do so in conjunction with assessing the alleviation of symptoms associated with vaginal atrophy. In this study vaginal swab samples were obtained from 45 women who were classified as either premenopausal, postmenopausal, or postmenopausal and undergoing HT. The vaginal microbiomes of these women were characterized by 16S rRNA gene sequencing and bacterial abundances were quantified by qPCR. We found that the vaginal communities from our cohort could be divided into six clusters (A-F) based on differences in the composition and relative abundances of bacterial taxa. Communities in cluster A were dominated by Lactobacillus crispatus, and those of cluster B were dominated by Gardnerella vaginalis. Communities in cluster C had high proportions of L. iners, while those in cluster D were more even and included several co-dominant taxa. Communities in clusters E and F were dominated by Bifidobacterium and L. gasseri, respectively. The vaginal communities of most postmenopausal women receiving HT (10/15) were dominated by species of lactobacilli and belonged to clusters A, C, and F (P < 0.001). This sharply contrasts with vaginal communities of postmenopausal women without HT, most of which (10/15) were in cluster D, depleted of lactobacilli, and had about 10-fold fewer total bacteria (P < 0.05). The vaginal communities of women in each study group differed in terms of the dominant bacterial species composition and relative abundance. Those of postmenopausal women receiving HT significantly differed from those of postmenopausal women without HT and were most often dominated by species of Lactobacillus. Noteworthy, HT greatly improved vaginal atrophy scores, decreased vaginal pH, and significantly increased bacterial numbers in comparison to postmenopausal women not receiving HT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karol Gliniewicz
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID, United States
- Institute for Bioinformatics and Evolutionary Studies, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID, United States
| | - G. Maria Schneider
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID, United States
- Institute for Bioinformatics and Evolutionary Studies, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID, United States
| | | | | | - Yuli Song
- The Procter and Gamble Company, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | | | - Kenneth Miller
- The Procter and Gamble Company, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Larry J. Forney
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID, United States
- Institute for Bioinformatics and Evolutionary Studies, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID, United States
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Sivolap YP. [Antidepressants: the goals and possibilities of therapy]. Zh Nevrol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova 2019; 118:120-124. [PMID: 30698571 DOI: 10.17116/jnevro2018118121120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Antidepressants are among the most commonly prescribed drugs due to their effectivenes in treating depression and anxiety disorders. One of the reasons for early discontinuation of taking antidepressants are side-effects. Agomelatine is a relatively novel antidepressant with high efficacy and good tolerance. Clinical effects of agomelatine include a reduction in symptoms of depression, anti-anxiety and hypnotic effects, as well as the rapid elimination of anhedonia, which determines high adherence to therapy, restoration of normal social functioning, and complete remission of disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu P Sivolap
- Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
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The use of neodymium magnets in healthcare and their effects on health. North Clin Istanb 2019; 5:268-273. [PMID: 30688942 PMCID: PMC6323575 DOI: 10.14744/nci.2017.00483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2017] [Accepted: 08/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The strong magnetic field properties of magnets have led to their use in many modern technologies, as well as in the fields of medicine and dentistry. Neodymium magnets are a powerful type of magnet that has been the subject of recent research. This review provides a brief explanation of the definition, history, and characteristics of rare earth magnets. In addition, a broad overview of results obtained in studies performed to date on the effects of magnets, and neodymium magnets in particular, on body systems, tissues, organs, diseases, and treatment is provided. Though they are used in the health sector in various diagnostic devices and as therapeutic tools, there is some potential for harmful effects, as well as the risk of accident. The research is still insufficient; however, neodymium magnets appear to hold great promise for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.
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Kashani L, Esalatmanesh S, Eftekhari F, Salimi S, Foroughifar T, Etesam F, Safiaghdam H, Moazen-Zadeh E, Akhondzadeh S. Efficacy of Crocus sativus (saffron) in treatment of major depressive disorder associated with post-menopausal hot flashes: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2018; 297:717-724. [DOI: 10.1007/s00404-018-4655-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2017] [Accepted: 01/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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9
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Wang X, Huang Y, Yuan S, Tamadon A, Ma S, Feng Y. The Role of Hippocampal Estradiol Receptor- α in a Perimenopausal Affective Disorders-Like Rat Model and Attenuating of Anxiety by Electroacupuncture. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2016; 2016:4958312. [PMID: 28044085 PMCID: PMC5156811 DOI: 10.1155/2016/4958312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2016] [Revised: 10/16/2016] [Accepted: 10/25/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Hormone replacement therapy is the principal treatment for perimenopausal affective disorders which can cause severe side effects. The present study compared the effects of electroacupuncture (EA) and estradiol treatment on perimenopausal affective disorders at the behavioral and cellular levels. In this randomized experimental in vivo study, adult female rats were divided into intact, ovariectomy, chronic unpredictable stress (CUS), and ovariectomy and CUS combination groups. After week 6, all groups were subdivided to three subgroups of control, EA, and estradiol treatment. The behavioral parameters in the open field and the elevated plus maze tests were assessed before and after treatments. Alterations of serum steroid hormones and changes of estradiol receptor-α (ER-α) immunofluorescence neurons in the hippocampus sections were evaluated. EA treatment caused more antianxiety effects than estradiol treatment in CUS group (P < 0.05). Notably, estradiol and EA treatments had better significant behavioral effects when the models were not estrogen-deficient. Importantly, within each group, compared to the control group, the numbers of ER-α-positive neurons were significantly larger in EA subgroups. Therefore, EA had antianxiety effects on perimenopausal affective disorders caused by CUS but not by estrogen deficiency and upregulation of hippocampus ER-α neurons may contribute to its mechanism of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xun Wang
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Shanghai Medical College, Institute of Acupuncture Research (WHO Collaborating Center for Traditional Medicine), Institutes of Brain Science, Brain Science Collaborative Innovation Center, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- 2008 Clinical Medicine, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yongheng Huang
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Shanghai Medical College, Institute of Acupuncture Research (WHO Collaborating Center for Traditional Medicine), Institutes of Brain Science, Brain Science Collaborative Innovation Center, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- 2008 Clinical Medicine, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Shiwen Yuan
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Shanghai Medical College, Institute of Acupuncture Research (WHO Collaborating Center for Traditional Medicine), Institutes of Brain Science, Brain Science Collaborative Innovation Center, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- 2008 Clinical Medicine, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Amin Tamadon
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Shanghai Medical College, Institute of Acupuncture Research (WHO Collaborating Center for Traditional Medicine), Institutes of Brain Science, Brain Science Collaborative Innovation Center, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Shulan Ma
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Shanghai Medical College, Institute of Acupuncture Research (WHO Collaborating Center for Traditional Medicine), Institutes of Brain Science, Brain Science Collaborative Innovation Center, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yi Feng
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Shanghai Medical College, Institute of Acupuncture Research (WHO Collaborating Center for Traditional Medicine), Institutes of Brain Science, Brain Science Collaborative Innovation Center, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
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10
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Baggish MS. Fractional CO2 Laser Treatment for Vaginal Atrophy and Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus. J Gynecol Surg 2016. [DOI: 10.1089/gyn.2016.0099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Michael S. Baggish
- St. Helena Hospital, St. Helena, CA, and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of California—San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
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Abstract
Objective Sleep disturbances are common among women in midlife; prevalence increases among perimenopausal/postmenopausal women with vasomotor symptoms. Paroxetine 7.5 mg is the only nonhormonal treatment that has been approved in the United States for moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause. In two pivotal phase 3 studies evaluating its efficacy and safety, improvements in sleep disturbances were also prospectively evaluated. Methods Postmenopausal women with moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms were randomly assigned to paroxetine 7.5 mg (n = 591) or placebo (n = 593) once daily for 12 weeks (both studies) or 24 weeks (24-wk study). Predefined assessments on weeks 4, 12, and 24 included number of nighttime awakenings attributed to vasomotor symptoms, sleep-onset latency, sleep duration, and sleep-related adverse events. The two studies’ data for weeks 1 to 12 were pooled. Results At baseline, participants reported a mean of 3.6 awakenings/night attributed to vasomotor symptoms. Nighttime awakenings attributed to vasomotor symptoms were significantly reduced within 4 weeks of initiating paroxetine 7.5 mg treatment (39% reduction vs 28% for placebo; P = 0.0049), and reductions were sustained through 12 or 24 weeks of treatment. Paroxetine 7.5 mg treatment also significantly increased nighttime sleep duration (week 4, +31 vs +16 min for placebo; P = 0.0075), but no significant between-group differences in sleep-onset latency or sleep-related adverse events such as sedation were observed. Conclusions In postmenopausal women treated for menopausal vasomotor symptoms, paroxetine 7.5 mg significantly reduces the number of nighttime awakenings attributed to vasomotor symptoms and increases sleep duration without differentially affecting sleep-onset latency or sedation.
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Endogenous Estrogen-Mediated Heme Oxygenase Regulation in Experimental Menopause. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2015; 2015:429713. [PMID: 26064421 PMCID: PMC4438186 DOI: 10.1155/2015/429713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2014] [Accepted: 07/04/2014] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Estrogen deficiency is one of the main causes of age-associated diseases in the cardiovascular system. Female Wistar rats were divided into four experimental groups: pharmacologically ovariectomized, surgically ovariectomized, and 24-month-old intact aging animals were compared with a control group. The activity and expression of heme oxygenases (HO) in the cardiac left ventricle, the concentrations of cardiac interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), the myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity in the cardiac left ventricle, and the effects of heme oxygenase blockade (by 24-hour and 1-hour pretreatment with tin-protoporphyrin IX, SnPP) on the epinephrine and phentolamine-induced electrocardiogram ST segment changes in vivo were investigated. The cardiac HO activity and the expression of HO-1 and HO-2 were significantly decreased in the aged rats and after ovariectomy. Estrogen depletion was accompanied by significant increases in the expression of IL-6 and TNF-α. The aged and ovariectomized animals exhibited a significantly elevated MPO activity and a significant ST segment depression. After pretreatment with SnPP augmented ST segment changes were determined. These findings demonstrate that the sensitivity to cardiac ischemia in estrogen depletion models is associated with suppression of the activity and expression of the HO system and increases in the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines and biomarkers.
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Ulbricht C, Windsor RC. An Evidence-Based Systematic Review of Black cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa, Actaea racemosa) by the Natural Standard Research Collaboration. J Diet Suppl 2014; 12:265-358. [PMID: 25153652 DOI: 10.3109/19390211.2014.946731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
An evidence-based systematic review of black cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa, Actaea racemosa) by the Natural Standard Research Collaboration consolidates the safety and efficacy data available in the scientific literature using a validated, reproducible grading rationale. This article includes written and statistical analysis of clinical trials, plus a compilation of expert opinion, folkloric precedent, history, pharmacology, kinetics/dynamics, interactions, adverse effects, toxicology, and dosing.
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Treatment of stress urinary incontinence by cinnamaldehyde, the major constituent of the chinese medicinal herb ramulus cinnamomi. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2014; 2014:280204. [PMID: 24711852 PMCID: PMC3966347 DOI: 10.1155/2014/280204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2013] [Accepted: 02/03/2014] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is a common disorder in middle-aged women and the elderly population. Although surgical treatment of SUI has progressed, pharmacological therapies remain unelucidated. We screened potential herbal medicines against SUI with an ex vivo organ bath assay. Ramulus Cinnamomi and its major constituent cinnamaldehyde cause a high contractile force of the urethra and a low contractile force of blood vessels. Cinnamaldehyde dose-dependently reduced lipopolysaccharide-induced nitric oxide (NO) production and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression in RAW 264.7 cells. In the vaginal distension- (VD-) induced SUI model in mice, cinnamaldehyde significantly reversed the VD-induced SUI physical signs and reduced blood pressure. Cinnamaldehyde may offer therapeutic potential against SUI without the possible side effect of hypertension. The modulation of several SUI-related proteins including myosin, iNOS, survival motor neuron (SMN) protein, and superoxide dismutase 3 (SOD3) may play some crucial roles in the therapeutic approach against SUI. This information may offer clues to the pathogenesis of SUI and open additional avenues for potential therapy strategies.
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Freeman EW, Sammel MD, Boorman DW, Zhang R. Longitudinal pattern of depressive symptoms around natural menopause. JAMA Psychiatry 2014; 71:36-43. [PMID: 24227182 PMCID: PMC4576824 DOI: 10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2013.2819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 145] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE An increased risk of depressive symptoms has been associated with the transition to menopause, but the risk of depressive symptoms in the early postmenopausal years has not been well characterized. OBJECTIVES To identify within-woman changes in depressive symptoms during a 14-year period around menopause, determine associations of a history of depression with the pattern of depressive symptoms, and evaluate the rate of change in reproductive hormones as predictors of depressive symptoms following menopause. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS A randomly identified, population-based sample in Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania, of 203 late-reproductive-age women who were premenopausal at baseline and reached natural menopause. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale. RESULTS The prevalence of high scores on the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale decreased from 10 years before to 8 years after the final menstrual period (FMP), with a decrease of approximately 15% of baseline per year (odds ratio, 0.85; 95% CI, 0.81-0.89; P < .001). Relative to the FMP, the risk of depressive symptoms was higher in the years before and lower in the years after the FMP. Among women with a history of depression, the likelihood of depressive symptoms was more than 13 times greater overall and 8 times greater after menopause compared with women with no depression history. Among women who first experienced depressive symptoms approaching menopause, the risk of depressive symptoms declined after the FMP, with a significantly lower risk the second year after menopause. The risk of depressive symptoms after menopause decreased by 35% for each unit (SD) increase before the FMP in the log rate of change of follicle-stimulating hormone (odds ratio, 0.65; 95% CI, 0.46-0.91; P = .01). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE The FMP was pivotal in the overall pattern of decreasing depressive symptoms in midlife women, with higher risk before and lower risk after the FMP. A history of depression strongly increased the risk both before and after menopause. Women who had no history of depression before the menopause transition had a low risk of depressive symptoms 2 or more years after the FMP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen W. Freeman
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology and Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Mary D. Sammel
- Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
| | - David W. Boorman
- Center for Research in Reproduction and Women’s Health, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Rongmei Zhang
- Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
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Unkila M, Kari S, Yatkin E, Lammintausta R. Vaginal effects of ospemifene in the ovariectomized rat preclinical model of menopause. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2013; 138:107-15. [PMID: 23665515 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2013.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2013] [Revised: 04/02/2013] [Accepted: 04/08/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Ospemifene is a unique tissue-selective estrogen agonist/antagonist (also known as a selective estrogen receptor modulator [SERM]) with demonstrated efficacy in Phase 3 studies of postmenopausal women with vulvar and vaginal atrophy (VVA). This report describes preclinical studies on the effects of ospemifene in the ovariectomized (OVX) rat model of menopause. Ospemifene (10mg/kg/day) and the SERM comparator, raloxifene (10mg/kg/day) were administered for 2 weeks and both increased vaginal weight; ospemifene was more effective than raloxifene. In addition, ospemifene had a greater effect on increasing vaginal epithelial height compared with raloxifene. The effect on uterine weight was less pronounced for both ospemifene and raloxifene. The ED50 of ospemifene on vaginal epithelial height was 0.39mg/kg/day and the magnitude was nearly the same as was seen with the positive control, 17α-ethinyl estradiol (EE2). In a histological analysis of ospemifene-treated rat vaginas, basal cells were overlaid by 2 to 3 cell layers of thickened goblet-like mucified cells apically; however, the cornification observed with EE2 was absent. Estrogenic activity of ospemifene was confirmed by upregulation of progesterone receptors in vaginal epithelium and stroma. Ospemifene showed similar affinity for estrogen receptor (ER)-α and ER-β, but an overall lower affinity than estradiol. Ospemifene antagonized estrogen response element (ERE)-mediated transactivation on MCF-7 cells, confirming its anti-estrogenic activity in breast cancer cells. The dose response for ospemifene in the rat is consistent with that observed in clinical studies of ospemifene 30 and 60mg, showing that the OVX rat is a highly predictive model of SERM activity in postmenopausal VVA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikko Unkila
- Hormos Medical Ltd., Itäinen Pitkäkatu 4 B, Turku 20520, Finland.
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17
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Biliatis I, Thomakos N, Rodolakis A, Akrivos N, Zacharakis D, Antsaklis A. Safety of hormone replacement therapy in gynaecological cancer survivors. J OBSTET GYNAECOL 2013; 32:321-5. [PMID: 22519472 DOI: 10.3109/01443615.2012.668579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Therapy for endometrial, ovarian and cervical cancer in young women can cause sudden onset of intense menopausal symptoms, such as hot flushes, emotional disorders and sexual dysfunction. In order to overcome these unpleasant and sometimes severe symptoms, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) has proven to be very effective. However, its safety remains controversial. We reviewed English literature and examined whether administration of HRT in this specific population is related with more recurrences and worse prognosis. Current scientific data, comprising mainly retrospective studies, suggest that recurrence rates and survival are comparable between HRT users and non-users. However, large randomised trials are missing and definitive conclusions cannot be drawn. Gynaecological cancer survivors using HRT, although they seem to have little if any risk for recurrence, should be correctly informed about the lack of strong evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Biliatis
- 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Alexandra General Hospital, University of Athens, Greece.
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18
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Abstract
Hot flashes are very common in women in menopause and can have a detrimental effect on quality of life. Hormone therapy (estrogen with or without progestin) remains the gold standard treatment for hot flashes, but concerns for the risk of hormone therapy have resulted in its decline and a demand for nonhormonal treatments with demonstrated efficacy for hot flashes. Several nonhormonal therapies have been tested in randomized placebo-controlled trials including nonpharmacologic approaches and pharmacologic nonhormonal agents. Among them, two classes of nonhormonal medications have been demonstrated to effectively alleviate hot flashes: γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) analogs and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). This article discusses the superior efficacy of the newer nonhormonal prescriptions for the treatment of hot flashes when compared with estrogen replacement therapy, and provides some recommendations regarding use of them in peri- and postmenopausal women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atsushi Imai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Matsunami General Hospital, Gifu, Japan.
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19
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Sakuma Y, Sasaki-Otomaru A, Ishida S, Kanoya Y, Arakawa C, Mochizuki Y, Seiishi Y, Sato C. Effect of a home-based simple yoga program in child-care workers: a randomized controlled trial. J Altern Complement Med 2012; 18:769-76. [PMID: 22808932 DOI: 10.1089/acm.2011.0080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study investigated the effect of a brief, simple, home-based yoga program on body pain and health status in child-care workers. DESIGN This was a randomized, controlled trial comparing a home-based yoga group and a control group. PARTICIPANTS The trial comprised 98 healthy female nursery school and kindergarten teachers. INTERVENTIONS A DVD of a simple home-based yoga program was provided for a period of 2 weeks. OUTCOME MEASURES The primary outcome measure was the reported change in body pain at 2 weeks (after intervention) and 4 weeks (follow-up). The secondary outcome measure was the 30-item General Health Questionnaire (GHQ30) score and physical function. RESULTS The 67 yoga group participants reported improved menstrual pain at 4 weeks; menstrual pain was reduced from 57.0 ± 27.8 to 37.8 ± 26.7 in the yoga group, versus 52.4 ± 36.5 to 46.9 ± 32.1 in the control group (change from baseline in the yoga group versus change from baseline in the control group, -15.3 points; p=0.044). The total GHQ30 score and the GHQ subscale scores ("sleep disturbance" and "anxiety and dysphoria") improved significantly at 4 weeks in the yoga group, but not in the control group. In the good-adherence group, low back pain improved during the intervention (p=0.006) and follow-up (p=0.001) periods. Menstrual pain was also improved (p=0.044). No adverse events were observed. CONCLUSIONS A home-based simple yoga program may improve the health status of child-care workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yumiko Sakuma
- Department of Analytical Health Science, Graduate School of Health Care Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan.
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20
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Mori C, Imai A. Relief of hot flashes with escitalopram in non-depressed menopausal women in Japan: Results of a retrospective analysis. Health (London) 2012. [DOI: 10.4236/health.2012.410136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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22
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Blake C, Fabick KM, Setchell KDR, Lund TD, Lephart ED. Neuromodulation by soy diets or equol: anti-depressive & anti-obesity-like influences, age- & hormone-dependent effects. BMC Neurosci 2011; 12:28. [PMID: 21410981 PMCID: PMC3068123 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2202-12-28] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2010] [Accepted: 03/16/2011] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Soy-derived isoflavones potentially protect against obesity and depression. In five different studies we examined the influence of soy-containing diets or equol injections on depression, serotonin levels, body weight gain (BW) and white adipose tissue (WAT) deposition in female Long-Evans rats at various stages of life [rats were intact, ovariectomized or experienced natural ovarian failure (NOF)]. RESULTS In general, animals fed a soy-rich diet (Phyto-600) and/or administered equol (@ 5 mg/kg/day) displayed significant decreases in BW and WAT compared to a low-soy diet. When equol was injected alone (5 mg/kg/day), experiments 1, 4, and 5 demonstrated that body weight was significantly decreased. Equol has body weight control effects in females that are dependent on ovarian status and/or age of diet initiation. Experiments 1-4 all displayed no significant differences in depressive-related behavior as measured by the Prosolt forced swim test (PFST) when soy-rich (Phyto-600) or low-soy diets (Phyto-low) or equol treatments (5 mg/kg/day) were tested in female rats at various ages or hormonal status. Results of all the experiments are not presented here due to space limitations, but data from experiment 5 are presented. From conception female rats were exposed to either: a) a soy-rich (Phyto-600) or b) low-soy diet (Phyto-low). After 290 days all rats experienced NOF. At 330 days-old the animals were examined in the Porsolt forced swim test (PFST). One month later a second PFST was performed [after Phyto-low fed animals were injected with equol (5 mg/kg/day) for one week prior to the second PFST]. At the first PFST, serotonin and mobility levels were significantly decreased in the Phyto-low fed animals compared to animals that consumed the Phyto-600 diet. After equol injections at the second PFST, mobility and serotonin levels significantly increased in aged NOF rats fed the Phyto-low diet (to levels comparable to Phyto-600 fed animals). CONCLUSIONS Consumption of dietary isoflavones or equol exposure in rats has body weight controlling effects and equol specifically may have antidepressant potential dependent upon diet initiation and/or dosage of treatments. The current study demonstrates that equol is able to decrease body weight, abdominal WAT, and depressive-related behavior. While other factors and mechanisms may play a role, in part, the present results provide a greater understanding of how isoflavonoid molecules modulate the brain's influence on behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Crystal Blake
- Department of Physiology and Developmental Biology and The Neuroscience Center, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah 84602 USA
| | - Kimberly M Fabick
- Department of Physiology and Developmental Biology and The Neuroscience Center, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah 84602 USA
| | - Kenneth DR Setchell
- Division of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Clinical Mass Spectrometry, Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio 45229 USA
| | - Trent D Lund
- Stoelting Co., 620 Wheat Lane, Wood Dale, Illinois, 60191 USA
| | - Edwin D Lephart
- Department of Physiology and Developmental Biology and The Neuroscience Center, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah 84602 USA
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Behr GA, Schnorr CE, Moreira JCF. Increased blood oxidative stress in experimental menopause rat model: the effects of vitamin A low-dose supplementation upon antioxidant status in bilateral ovariectomized rats. Fundam Clin Pharmacol 2011; 26:235-49. [PMID: 21226757 DOI: 10.1111/j.1472-8206.2010.00923.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Menopause has been reported to be associated with increased oxidative stress and metabolic disorders among women worldwide. Disarrangements in the redox state similar to those observed in women during the decline of ovarian hormonal activity can be obtained experimentally through rat bilateral ovariectomy. The search for alternative treatments to improve life quality in postmenopausal woman is really important. The aim of this study was to evaluate biochemical and oxidative stress parameters that distinguish sham-operated female rats from Wistar rats bilaterally ovariectomized (OVX). Additionally, we have also investigated the effects of retinol palmitate (a vitamin A supplement) low-dose supplementation (500 or 1500 IU/kg/day, during 30 days) upon blood and plasma antioxidant status in OVX rats. Ovariectomy caused an increase in body weight gain, pronounced uterine atrophy, decreased plasma triglycerides and increased total cholesterol levels, and reduced acid uric content. Moreover, we found increased blood peroxidase activities (catalase and glutathione peroxidase), decreased plasma non-enzymatic antioxidant defenses total reactive antioxidant potential and total antioxidant reactivity, decreased protein and non-protein SH levels, accompanied by increased protein oxidative damage (carbonyl). In addition, vitamin A low-dose supplementation was capable to ameliorate antioxidant status in OVX rats, restoring both enzymatic and non-enzymatic defenses, promoting reduction in plasma SH content, and decreasing protein oxidative damage levels. This is the first work in the literature showing that vitamin A at low dose may be beneficial in the treatment of menopause symptoms. Further studies will be made to better understand the effects of vitamin A supplementation in menopause rat model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guilherme Antônio Behr
- Center of Oxidative Stress Research, Professor Tuiskon Dick Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Health Basic Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, CEP 90035-003 Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
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Roberts H. Safety of herbal medicinal products in women with breast cancer. Maturitas 2010; 66:363-9. [PMID: 20347238 DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2010.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2010] [Revised: 02/18/2010] [Accepted: 02/19/2010] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To review and summarise current evidence on the efficacy and safety of herbal medicinal products for the relief of hot flushes in women with previous breast cancer. METHODS A literature search was conducted in the databases of Medline, EMBASE, The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), PSYCHINFO, AMED (Allied and Complementary Medicine), NCCAM (The National Centre for Complementary and Alternative Medicine). RESULTS Black cohosh and phytoestrogens have received the most research attention but there is currently insufficient evidence to recommend either for relief of flushes. Black cohosh use appears safe in women with previous breast cancer. Opposing advice has been given regarding the safety of dietary phytoestrogen use for women with previous breast cancer, but there is emerging data that soyfood phytoestrogen intake may have a beneficial effect on tumour recurrence. CONCLUSIONS The majority of studies, regarding the efficacy of herbal treatments for hot flushes, have not been conducted in women with breast cancer and many are of short duration. Increased pharmacovigilance practices for herbal medicines are required with initiatives to stimulate reporting of suspected adverse reactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen Roberts
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.
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Archer DF. Desvenlafaxine: A therapeutic option for treatment of menopausal hot flashes. Maturitas 2010; 66:1-2. [DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2010.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2010] [Accepted: 02/10/2010] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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