Non-Hormonal Supplement Could Reduce Menopause Symptoms

Studies suggest a pollen extract may help breast cancer survivors and menopausal women manage hot flashes.

Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Women’s Health

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A purified pollen extract supplement is being studied for its potential to help menopausal women and breast cancer survivors manage hot flashes. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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UPSA is highlighting research on its non-hormonal dietary supplement, FEM Meno, which utilizes a purified cytoplasmic pollen extract. The supplement is being studied for its potential to manage symptoms like hot flashes in menopausal women and breast cancer survivors.

Why it matters

Hot flashes and night sweats impact up to 80 percent of women during menopause, yet many patients require non-hormonal options. This research addresses the need for management strategies in populations where traditional hormone therapies may not be suitable.

A 2024 study of 39 breast cancer survivors showed a 37 percent reduction in weekly hot flashes using the pollen extract, following a 2021 study of 90 women with surgical menopause that reported symptom relief in 88.9 percent of users.

The players

UPSA

A French pharmaceutical company founded in 1935 that recently acquired Sérélys Pharma to expand its presence in women's health.

The details

FEM Meno contains Pure CyTonin, a specialized pollen extract processed to remove the grain outer shell while preserving internal nutrients. In clinical settings, the supplement is sometimes co-administered with tamoxifen, and laboratory testing from 2015 indicates minimal impact on the CYP2D6 enzyme. These findings suggest a potential non-hormonal pathway for addressing vasomotor symptoms in women who cannot or choose not to use hormonal treatments.

Timeline

  1. 2021: Pollen extract study on surgical menopause conducted.

  2. 2024: UPSA acquired Sérélys Pharma.

  3. 2024: Study on breast cancer survivors conducted.

  4. November 6-8, 2026: Survival Skills for Women's Health event in Arlington, Virginia.

Health Landscape

The development of non-hormonal options for menopause represents a critical shift for millions of women who are contraindicated for traditional hormone replacement therapy. This research adds to the growing body of evidence exploring plant-based extracts for long-term symptom management.

For those experiencing hot flashes, these study results highlight the importance of discussing non-hormonal alternatives with a primary care physician. It is essential to review any new supplement with a doctor to ensure it does not interact with current medications like tamoxifen.

The takeaway

Non-hormonal supplements may offer a way to reduce the frequency of hot flashes, particularly for breast cancer survivors or those unable to use hormones. Always confirm the safety of any new supplement with your physician, especially if you are currently undergoing treatment for other conditions.

What happens next

UPSA is scheduled to present its research on the pollen extract at the Survival Skills for Women's Health event in Arlington, Virginia, from November 6-8, 2026.

Further reading

For more information on managing symptoms, visit our Women’s Health section.

Source note: This article includes information reported by The Manila times.

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Do you trust non-hormonal supplements to effectively manage your menopause symptoms?