Treating Hot Flushes Without Hormones

The North American Menopause Society gathered a panel of experts to weigh the evidence and recommendations regarding non-HRT management of vasomotor symptoms (i.e. Body temperature regulation) such as hot flushes and night sweats. 

Data from surveys conducted in both Britain and the US show that up to 80% of women try nonhormonal therapies for hot flushes however most are confused about the use of natural alternatives or about which products to use.

The panel concluded that several nonhormonal lifestyle therapies do work including: various relaxation techniques, good sleep hygiene, and stress reduction and weight loss.  

Some prescription medications such as serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs, such as venlafaxine), and the gabapentinoids (gabapentin and pregabalin), and clonidine can also offer mild to moderate relief. 

The panel also concluded that there is not enough evidence to support that several popular therapies such as yoga, acupuncture, and herbal mediations such as Black Cohosh, Evening Primrose or Pollen extract, can assist with hot flushes. 

Source: https://thebms.org.uk/2015/09/treating-hot-flushes-without-hormones-what-works-what-doesnt/