- Menopausal symptoms (hot flashes, mood swings)
- Hormonal balance (mild estrogenic/anti-estrogenic effects)
- Bone health (postmenopausal women)
- Cardiovascular protection
- Antioxidant & anti-inflammatory effects
- Prostate health (men)
- Breast cancer prevention (under study)
Dose:
- Typical supplement dose:
- 40–100 mg/day of total isoflavones
- Usually standardized to genistein, daidzein, and glycitein content
- Can be taken as capsules, powders, or soy-based foods
- Isoflavone-rich supplements:
- 40–100 mg per capsule/tablet (standardized to active isoflavones)
- Soy foods:
- 1 cup soy milk = ~30–40 mg isoflavones
- ½ cup tofu = ~25–30 mg
- Oral: Take with meals for better absorption
- Daily use recommended for chronic conditions like menopause or bone health
- Effects may take several weeks to manifest
- Phytoestrogens: Plant-derived compounds structurally similar to estradiol (E2)
- Bind to estrogen receptors (ERβ > ERα)
- Modulate hormone-dependent pathways without strong estrogenic effects
- Possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-proliferative actions
- Bloating or GI discomfort
- Headache
- Allergic reactions (rare)
- High intake in sensitive individuals may cause menstrual changes or breast tenderness
- History of estrogen-sensitive cancers (consult healthcare provider)
Soy allergy - Patients on hormonal therapies (use with medical advice)
- May interfere with thyroid medications (especially in iodine deficiency)
- Can alter metabolism of warfarin or tamoxifen (via liver enzyme pathways)
- May interact with oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy
Drug Status
| Availability | |
| Pregnancy | |
| Breastfeeding | |
| Schedule |
| BRAND NAME | STRENGTH | FORMULATION | PACK SIZE | MANUFACTURER | DISTRIBUTOR |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Femestro | 40mg | Capsule | 30’s | Akses Swiss | Avacare Kenya |