Studies reveal that Red Clover and Soy isoflavone supplements are ineffective for treating hot flashes.
9/22/03

By John Sunyecz, M.D.
MenopauseRx, Inc.

Researchers have found that isoflavones derived from soy are not more effective in relieving hot flashes than placebo . This study was done over 6 months and included 62 postmenopausal women between 45 and 60 years of age having at least seven hot flashes per day. This randomized, double blind study used 72 milligrams of soy derived isoflavones per day or placebo. At the end of the study both groups experienced a 40% reduction in the number of hot flashes. Another study from Finland in menopausal patients being treated for breast cancer did not find phytoestrogen tablets any more effective for the treatment of menopause symptoms compared to placebo. Both studies found the supplements to be well tolerated without significant side effects.

Lastly, a randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled study using isoflavones derived from red clover were not found to be more effective than placebo in reducing hot flashes in 252 women. Patients received either Promensil, Rimostil or placebo for 12 weeks and the number of hot flashes were measured during the trial. Overall, the average reduction in hot flashes was similar among all groups (41%, 34%, 36% respectively). No significant side effects were noted during this trial.

These studies reveal that Red Clover isoflavones and Soy derived isoflavones used for the relief of menopause symptoms do not appear to be more effective than placebo. This is in contrast to a large body of research proving a benefit for increasing soy intake via dietary means. One possible explanation for this apparent discrepancy between soy based foods and soy derived isoflavone supplements is the manufacturing process used in producing soy based supplements may destroy vital components of soy that is responsible for menopause symptom relief.

Information regarding red clover extracts is continuing to mount regarding the lack of significant symptom relief with these products. This means that women experiencing perimenopause or menopause symptoms such as hot flashes or night sweats should consider other treatments that have proven benefit. One example is the well studied herb, Black Cohosh (Remifemin) , which has been used for over 40 years in Germany with an excellent side effect profile and proven benefit for relieving troublesome symptoms.

In light of recent information regarding a variety of menopause treatments, patients are encouraged to thoroughly discuss all treatment options with their physician or health care provider. Evaluating all prescription and non-prescription products for effectiveness and safety cannot be stressed enough.

References:
Penotti M, Fabio E, Modena AB, Rinaldi M, Omodei U, Vigano P. Effect of soy-derived isoflavones on hot flushes, endometrial thickness, and the pulsatility index of the uterine and cerebral arteries. Fertil Steril 2003;79:1112-1117.

Nikander E, Kikkinen A, Metsa-Heikkila M, et al. A randomized placebo-controlled crossover trial with phytoestrogens in treatment of menopause in breast cancer patients. Obstet Gynecol 2003;101:1213-1220.

Tice JA, Ettinger B, Ensrud K, Wallace R, Blackwell T, Cummings SR. Phytoestroen supplements for the treatment of hot flashes: the Isoflavone Clover Extact (ICE) study. JAMA 2003;290:207-214.

Copyright ©2003 content, MenopauseRx, Inc. The information provided by MenopauseRx, Inc. is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health-care provider. Please consult your health-care provider for advice about a specific medical condition.