Best Over The Counter Medicine For Hot Flashes
Hot flashes are a common symptom of menopause, affecting up to 85% of women. They can be uncomfortable and disruptive to daily life, and many women seek relief from over-the-counter (OTC) medications. In this article, we will discuss the best OTC medicines for hot flashes.
1. Black Cohosh
Black cohosh is a herb that is commonly used to treat menopausal symptoms, including hot flashes. It is believed to work by affecting serotonin levels in the brain, which can help regulate body temperature. While the exact mechanism is not fully understood, several studies have shown that black cohosh can be effective in reducing the frequency and severity of hot flashes.
One study published in the Journal of Women's Health found that women who took black cohosh for 12 weeks experienced a significant reduction in hot flashes compared to those who took a placebo. Another study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that black cohosh was effective in reducing hot flashes in women who were not able to take hormone therapy.
2. Soy
Soy contains phytoestrogens, which are plant-based compounds that can mimic the effects of estrogen in the body. Estrogen levels naturally decline during menopause, which can contribute to hot flashes. Consuming soy products, such as soy milk or tofu, may help alleviate hot flashes by increasing estrogen levels in the body.
A study published in Menopause found that women who consumed soy protein powder daily for 12 weeks experienced a significant reduction in hot flashes compared to those who took a placebo. However, it is important to note that the evidence for soy as a treatment for hot flashes is mixed, and some studies have not found it to be effective.
3. Vitamin E
Vitamin E is an antioxidant that is commonly used to treat a variety of conditions, including hot flashes. It is believed to work by reducing oxidative stress in the body, which can contribute to hot flashes. While the evidence for vitamin E as a treatment for hot flashes is mixed, several studies have found it to be effective.
A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that women who took vitamin E supplements for 4 weeks experienced a significant reduction in hot flashes compared to those who took a placebo. Another study published in the journal Obstetrics and Gynecology found that vitamin E was effective in reducing hot flashes in women who were not able to take hormone therapy.
4. Flaxseed
Flaxseed is a plant-based source of omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation in the body. Inflammation can contribute to hot flashes, so consuming flaxseed may help alleviate this symptom of menopause. Additionally, flaxseed contains lignans, which are plant-based compounds that can mimic the effects of estrogen in the body.
A study published in the Journal of the Society for Integrative Oncology found that women who consumed flaxseed daily for 6 weeks experienced a significant reduction in hot flashes compared to those who did not consume flaxseed. Another study published in the journal Menopause found that flaxseed was effective in reducing hot flashes in women who were not able to take hormone therapy.
5. Antidepressants
While not technically an OTC medication, some antidepressants are commonly used to treat hot flashes. Antidepressants work by affecting the levels of serotonin in the brain, which can help regulate body temperature. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are the most commonly prescribed antidepressants for hot flashes.
A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that the SSRI paroxetine was effective in reducing hot flashes in women who were not able to take hormone therapy. Another study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology found that the SNRI venlafaxine was effective in reducing hot flashes in breast cancer survivors.
Conclusion
There are several OTC medications that can be effective in treating hot flashes. Black cohosh, soy, vitamin E, flaxseed, and antidepressants are all options that have been shown to be effective in reducing the frequency and severity of hot flashes. However, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication or supplement, as they can help determine the best course of treatment for each individual.
