Evaluation of combining kava extract with hormone replacement therapy in the treatment of postmenopausal anxiety.
OBJECTIVE
to evaluate the efficacy of combining kava extract with hormone replacement therapy in the treatment of menopausal anxiety.


METHODS
HAMA score was evaluated before and after therapy in four groups of women in menopause (duration of menopause ranged from 1 to 12 years). The groups were treated with hormone replacement therapy (with and without progestogens) and kava extract or placebo for 6 months.


RESULTS
A significant reduction in HAMA score was observed in all four groups of women. The reduction was more significant in groups taking kava extract than in groups on hormones only.


CONCLUSIONS
The combined use of hormone replacement therapy and kava extract seems to be effective against menopausal anxiety. Kava extract accelerates resolution of psychological symptoms while hormone therapy safeguards against osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease.
De Leo
V
V
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Siena, Policlinico Le Scotte, Viale Bracci, 53100 Siena, Italy. deleo@unisi.it
la Marca
A
A
Morgante
G
G
Lanzetta
D
D
Florio
P
P
Petraglia
F
F
D001007:Anxiety / Q000517:prevention & control*; D005260:Female; D020249:Hormone Replacement Therapy; D006801:Humans; D020901:Kava / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D008593:Menopause; D008875:Middle Aged; D008517:Phytotherapy; D010936:Plant Extracts / Q000627:therapeutic use; D010946:Plants, Medicinal; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D010936:Plant Extracts