Summary
Despite recent encouraging data regarding the safety of traditional hormone replacement therapy (HRT), women and their primary care practitioners continue to be concerned about the purported risks, particularly to the breasts and cardiovascular system. This concern has fuelled continued interest in alternatives to HRT for the management of vasomotor symptoms.
The choice of treatment remains confusing and the evidence for efficacy and safety for many of these preparations remains limited. There are a few exceptions where more rigorous randomised trials have been performed in recent years. This Scientific Impact Paper, an update of the publication from 2006, aims to provide the reader with state-of-the-art knowledge on alternatives to HRT for the management of menopausal symptoms.
COVID disclaimer
This Scientific Impact Paper was developed prior to the emergence of the COVID-19 coronavirus.
Version history
This is the second edition of this Scientific Impact Paper, which was originally published in May 2006.
Please note that the Scientific Advisory Committee regularly assesses the need to update. Further information on this review is available on request.
Developer declaration of interests
Available on request.