What is the gold standard treatment for menopause symptoms like hot flashes?

Hormone therapy, administered through pills, patches, or gels, is considered the gold standard for managing symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats.

Are there non-hormonal options for managing menopause symptoms?

Yes, non-hormonal medications, like fezolinetant, can effectively reduce hot flashes and night sweats by targeting the same brain centers where these symptoms originate.

What is the role of weight-loss drugs in menopause care?

Emerging research from 2026 indicates that combining hormone therapy with GLP-1 weight-loss drugs may lead to greater weight loss and improved cardiometabolic outcomes in post-menopausal women.

Home / Health / Beyond Hormones: Navigating Menopause Care

Beyond Hormones: Navigating Menopause Care

10 Feb

•

Summary

Hormone therapy is effective but not for all women.
Non-hormonal drugs and lifestyle changes offer alternatives.
Weight-loss drugs show promise with hormone therapy.

In Canada, healthcare professionals are advancing menopause care with a range of treatments.

Hormone therapy, delivered via pill, patch, or gel, is a primary option for symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats. However, it's not appropriate for individuals with uncontrolled blood pressure, heart disease, or certain cancer histories.

For those who cannot or prefer not to use hormone therapy, effective non-hormonal medications are available. These drugs, like fezolinetant approved by Health Canada, target the brain's hot flash triggers. Lifestyle modifications, including strength training and moderate exercise, also play a crucial role.

Recent research is investigating the combination of hormone therapy with GLP-1 weight-loss drugs, such as tirzepatide. Preliminary studies from 2026 suggest this approach may enhance weight loss and improve cardiometabolic health, though further large-scale research is needed.