Abstract:

Menopausal symptoms can significantly and adversely affect women′s quality of life, mental health, and long-term health. Currently, menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) is a key approach for managing menopausal symptoms. However, some patients seek alternative treatments due to contraindications, concerns about hormone-related risks, or personal preference. Existing research suggests that Ding Kun Dan alone may improve menopausal symptoms and sex hormone levels, and its combination with MHT may further enhance overall symptom relief, including sleep quality and anxiety or depressive symptoms. Its mechanism may involve regulating ovarian function and steroid hormone biosynthesis, the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt) related signaling pathway, oxidative stress, energy metabolism, and neurotransmitters. For patients unwilling to undergo MHT or those desiring complementary intervention with traditional Chinese medicine, Ding Kun Dan holds potential clinical value. However, current clinical studies have limited sample sizes, and mechanistic evidence is largely derived from non-menopausal models. Its efficacy, safety, and appropriate target populations still require validation through high-quality research.

Key words: Perimenopause, Ding Kun Dan, Menopausal hormone therapy, Chinese patent drugs, Gonadal steroid hormones