Integrating phytoestrogens with prescription medicines—A conservative clinical approach to vasomotor symptom management

There is a growing body of scientific evidence that complementary therapies such as isoflavone containing phytoestrogens might help menopausal symptoms. Women are now using them, believing them to be safer and “more natural” especially following the current controversies regarding HRT. However, the choice of treatments is confusing and with some preparations, little is known about their active ingredients, safety or side effects or how they may interact with other therapies. This paper examines the available evidence for management of menopause symptoms with isoflavone containing phytoestrogens, both in terms of efficacy and safety. An algorithm is suggested to demonstrate how these preparations may be integrated with conventional therapies to effectively manage menopause symptoms.