Menopause Health Center

New Treatment for Menopause Symptoms

Menopause Symptom Relief

Though both studies offer promise, perhaps the aspect of TSEC that will interest most women is the potential improvement of menopausal symptoms -- problems like hot flashes or vaginal dryness.

"Two of the phase III trials looked at hot flushes, and the combination appears very effective in significantly reducing not only the number, but the severity," says Pickar. This is significant since SERM medications, particularly at high doses, often increase hot flashes.

Moreover, he adds that vaginal symptoms such as dryness and thinning also responded favorably to this TSEC. SERMs alone have no impact on these symptoms.

Although there have been no specific studies on either the protective effects or risks of TSEC on heart health, thus far Pickar says no adverse cardiovascular events have been reported. He adds that the incidence of blood clots and stroke previously associated with hormone therapy "was not different than placebo in our two-year trial of TSEC."

A head-to-head study comparing TSEC with HRT is under way with results expected later this year. Goldstein cautions that there is still much we don't know about this new approach to treating menopause.

"It could be the answer we have been searching for, but women need to realize that there are still many questions that need to be answered before we can say for certain this is a revolutionary treatment option."

Wyeth plans to submit data for drug approval to the FDA in the latter part of 2007. If approved, the first TSEC drug could be available by prescription as early as mid-2008.

• Will you consider this new treatment? Share your thoughts on WebMD's Menopause Support Group message board.