Using Farabloc to Decrease Hot Flashes in Postmenopausal Women: A Randomized Controlled Study

Abstract

Rollin Yinglin Yu, Clarus Ka-Wing Leung and York N. Hsiang*

Objective: To investigate whether Farabloc used as a bottom bed sheet fabric decreases the number of moderate to severe hot flashes in postmenopausal women.

Methods: A prospective, randomized, crossover, double-blind study was conducted on postmenopausal women. After a two-week washout period, participants slept on either Farabloc or placebo fabric for two weeks in a randomized order. After another two-week washout period, participants were crossed over and slept on the opposite fabric for 2 weeks. The primary outcome was the number of hot flashes of moderate to severe rating as perceived by the participants.

Results: From February 2014 through June 2015, 33 women were enrolled; 8 failed to complete the study. The average number of moderate to severe hot flashes experienced by the 25 participants during the 2 weeks on placebo was 36.8 ± 16.5, compared with 29.8 ± 18.3 on Farabloc (P=0.008). The mean overall reduction in moderate to severe hot flashes between placebo and Farabloc use during the 2 weeks was -7.04 ± 12.2. Various participant characteristics including age, duration and perceived severity had no correlation with the effect of Farabloc on hot flashes. There were no reported side effects from Farabloc use.

Conclusion: The use of Farabloc fabric at night significantly reduced the frequency of hot flashes in postmenopausal women, suggesting that Farabloc may be considered as a safe alternative non-medicinal treatment option or adjunct for the alleviation of hot flashes.