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Black cohosh okay to manage hot flashes?

Page last modified on: October 13, 2008
Question from MGren: Are there risks to taking black cohosh to manage hot flashes? I am taking Aromasin since my estrogen-positive breast cancer 2 years ago. The summer here in Texas is hot enough without adding hot flashes, and UNBELIEVABLE levels of anger. Thank you.
Answers —Patricia Ganz, M.D.: Studies have not shown that black cohosh alleviates hot flashes any better than placebo. In addition, there have been some biochemical studies looking at blood levels of estrogen and these have not necessarily shown that it is harmful, but you should consult with your physician before taking anything that is not prescribed.
Lillie Shockney, R.N., B.S., M.A.S.: I was glad this question was asked. Often people think that if it's something that can be obtained over the counter, it's safe to self prescribe. But in fact, even herbal substances can have interactions. Therefore, it is important to discuss with your doctor before trying something on your own.

On Wednesday, August 15, 2007, the Ask-the-Expert Online Conference was called Managing Ongoing Medications. Patricia Ganz, M.D. and moderator Lillie Shockney, R.N., B.S., M.A.S. answered your questions about staying on track with breast cancer medications you have to take on a regular basis.

The materials presented in these conferences do not necessarily reflect the views of breastcancer.org. A qualified healthcare professional should be consulted before using any therapeutic product or regimen discussed. All readers should verify all information and data before employing any therapies described here.

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Meet the Experts

Patricia A. Ganz, M.D.Patricia A. Ganz, M.D. is a medical oncologist and a professor in the schools of medicine and public health at UCLA, and is director of the division of cancer prevention and control research at the Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center there.

Lillie Shockney, RN., BS., M.A.S.Lillie Shockney, R.N., B.S., M.A.S. is the administrative director of the Johns Hopkins Avon Foundation Breast Center.

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