What it is
Estroven Complete Multi-Symptom Relief is a dietary supplement for menopause symptoms. Its active ingredient is a standardized extract of rhapontic rhubarb root (ERr 731) that selectively activates estrogen receptor beta. This tissue-selective activity resembles a phyto-SERM: it affects receptors in the brain and bones without stimulating breast or uterine tissue. It does not raise circulating estrogen levels. i-Health (a Church & Dwight company) manufactures it, and it is sold over the counter under the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA).
How well it works
A 12-week randomized placebo-controlled trial of 109 perimenopausal women found that 83.3% of those taking rhapontic rhubarb experienced significant improvement in all menopausal symptoms, compared to 1.8% on placebo (PMID 16960150). Hot flashes were reduced by about 90% by week 12. A 6-month open observational study of 311 women confirmed continued efficacy over a longer period (PMID 19026609). The evidence is stronger than for most menopause supplements because it includes a placebo-controlled RCT, but the study size is modest and the supplement has not been evaluated by the FDA for safety or efficacy.
Side effects and cautions
Estroven Complete was generally well tolerated in clinical studies, with no serious adverse events reported. Because it interacts with estrogen receptors (specifically ER-beta), talk to your doctor before using it if you have a history of estrogen-dependent cancer or take prescription hormone therapy. It is a dietary supplement, not an FDA-approved drug, so it has not gone through the same safety and efficacy review as prescription medications.
Where to get it
You can buy Estroven Complete over the counter at pharmacies, retail stores, and online without a prescription. It comes in 28 to 60 count packs. It is one of the most widely available menopause supplements in the United States.