Menopause health: Experts discuss hormone therapy and supplement efficacy

Medical experts and consumer testers are providing guidance on managing menopause and the efficacy of various treatments. In Germany, Öko-Test has cautioned against over-reliance on dietary supplements for menopause symptoms. Because supplements are legally classified as food rather than medicine, they do not undergo the same rigorous approval processes to prove efficacy in treating or relieving health conditions.

In Brazil, discussions regarding hormone therapy have resurfaced following FDA updates to product labeling. While certain cardiovascular and cancer risks were moved from prominent warnings to full product information, specialists emphasize that therapy must be individualized based on age, symptom severity, and medical history. Experts note that starting therapy before age 60 or within the first decade of menopause may offer a favorable risk-benefit ratio.

Clinical observations also highlight the impact of hormonal transitions on cognitive and physical health. Symptoms such as memory lapses, irritability, and sleep disturbances are common. Medical professionals note that these cognitive changes are often linked to poor sleep quality and metabolic shifts rather than being isolated neurodegenerative issues.