Research continues into the effects of hormone replacement therapy (HRT). For example:

• Clinical trials have shown antidepressants to be moderately effective in relieving symptoms associated with hot flashes. However, they have not yet been officially approved for this use. Soy products may also relieve symptoms because they contain an estrogen-like substance called phytoestrogen. However, this link has not been conclusively proven and the benefits of soy continue to be examined for women.
  
  
• Research continues into whether herbs (such as black cohosh), “natural” products and alternative medicine can help relieve symptoms associated with menopause. To date, studies have failed to show that black cohosh is effective at alleviating hot flashes and other symptoms of menopause.
  
  
• HRT may one day be used in the treatment and prevention of colon cancer. Researchers at the Kimmel Cancer Center at Jefferson in Philadelphia have found new evidence suggesting that colon cancer may be caused by a hormone deficiency that could potentially be treated with HRT. More studies are being conducted to substantiate the findings.