Fitoestrogenos versus desvenlafaxina en el tratamiento de los sintomas vasomotores en la menopausia: revision sistematica

Abstract

Title: Phytoestrogens versus Desvenlafaxine in the Treatment of Vasomotor Symptoms in Menopause. Objective: To compare the use of phytoestrogens versus desvenlafaxine in the management of vasomotor symptoms in menopausal women. Methodology: The study design is a systematic literature review that employed the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) methodology to compare the use of phytoestrogens versus desvenlafaxine in the management of vasomotor symptoms in menopausal women. Results: Vasomotor symptoms (VMS), such as hot flashes and night sweats, are common manifestations in women transitioning to menopause and postmenopausal women, significantly impacting their quality of life. Hormone therapy has been the standard treatment, but its use is limited by associated risks, especially in women with a family history of cancer, thromboembolic disease, or cardiovascular contraindications. Therefore, research into non-hormonal treatments, such as phytoestrogens and desvenlafaxine, has been promoted. Discussion: It is important to note that the safety of both approaches is favorable, although careful individualization of treatment is required. Furthermore, the need to standardize phytoestrogen formulations to optimize their clinical efficacy is highlighted. Promoting additional controlled and comparative studies between both strategies will be key to strengthening current recommendations and offering safe and effective alternatives to women during this period of life. Conclusion: Desvenlafaxine has established itself as an effective and well-tolerated therapeutic option, with consistent effects in reducing both the frequency and intensity of hot flashes, being especially useful in women for whom hormone therapy is contraindicated. Regarding phytoestrogens, although their efficacy may vary, they constitute a natural and safe alternative, appreciated mainly for their favorable safety profile and high acceptance among patients.