In the realm of menopause symptoms, which can range from sleep disturbances to burning mouth syndrome, individuals often find themselves unsure of their experiences, according to Dr. Alison Shea. The Dose engaged with multiple clinicians and researchers at the forefront of menopause care in Canada to delve into the latest treatments, spanning from hormone therapy to lifestyle modifications.
Hormone therapy, administered through pills, patches, or gels, is deemed the benchmark treatment for individuals in menopause dealing with night sweats and hot flashes, as highlighted by Dr. Kelsey Mills, an obstetrician and gynecologist in Victoria, B.C. This therapy can also alleviate symptoms like insomnia, joint pain, vaginal dryness, vulvar irritation, and pain during sex.
Nevertheless, Mills pointed out that while hormone therapy is a safe and effective option, it may not be suitable for everyone. Individuals with uncontrolled blood pressure, heart disease, or liver cirrhosis should explore alternative treatments. Moreover, breast cancer survivors should approach hormone therapy with caution due to potential increased breast cancer risk associated with certain studies.
Ideal candidates for hormone therapy are typically under 60 years old or within 10 years of menopause onset, experiencing symptoms significantly impacting their daily life. Hormone therapy may also serve as the primary intervention for early perimenopause symptoms, particularly hot flashes, which often manifest between ages 40 and 50 as estrogen and progesterone levels fluctuate.
For individuals unable or unwilling to pursue hormonal therapy, there are other effective and safe options available for common symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats. Non-hormonal solutions, such as neurokinin receptor antagonists, can help mitigate these symptoms by impeding the brain’s efforts to raise body temperature suddenly, akin to estrogen.
Additionally, lifestyle adjustments play a pivotal role in managing menopause-related changes in bone density, muscle mass, heart health, and weight gain. Engaging in healthy dietary practices and regular exercise can ameliorate several symptoms. Recommendations include at least 30 minutes of strength training thrice weekly, coupled with 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise, aligning with International Menopause Society guidelines.
Research exploring the correlation between weight gain and menopause has spurred investigations into utilizing GLP-1 drugs, alone or in conjunction with hormone therapy, to address these issues. Recent studies indicate promising outcomes when combining hormone therapy with weight-loss medications like Mounjaro and Zepbound, leading to enhanced weight loss and improved cardiometabolic results among participants.
Despite these advancements, further research is essential to comprehend the relationship between hormone therapy and GLP-1 drugs fully. Experts emphasize the importance of consulting with a physician or nurse practitioner to explore the array of available treatments for managing menopause symptoms effectively.
