Physicians in England support the combination of tamoxifen plus estrogen. With this combination, tamoxifen blocks the effect of estrogen on the breast, and estrogen prevents the hot flashes caused by tamoxifen or estrogen deficiency. The idea of combining the drugs is reasonable. The only problem is that no good studies have been completed to show whether this combination is beneficial or harmful with respect to developing breast cancer. This method should be kept in mind, but probably not used widely until more information is available.
Many women use herbal treatments for menopausal symptoms and other complaints.
Since 1994, botanical products have been sold in the U.S as herbs or dietary supplements, as long as no health claims are made and the products have not been proven unsafe. Quality control of herbal products is a problem. Safety, effectiveness, and toxicity data are lacking. Only limited studies have assessed how well these products work. Licorice in high doses can be harmful.