NCT07824648 · SRI International
Thermoregulatory Physiology of Menopausal Hot Flashes
What this study is about
This study is evaluating the effects of cooling on menopausal hot flashes in midlife women. Precise targeted cooling is provided to areas of the skin when a hot flash occurs.
View original scientific description
This study is evaluating the effects of cooling on menopausal hot flashes in midlife women. Precise targeted cooling is provided to areas of the skin when a hot flash occurs.
Interventions
OTHER
Intervention C (Targeted skin cooling)
Cooling targeted to the skin during a hot flash
OTHER
Intervention B (Ambient cooling)
Cooling of the room
OTHER
Intervention A (Room temperature)
Control condition (room temperature)
Primary outcome measures
Number of hot flashes
Time frame: Across the ~5 hour experimental period in the lab
Number of hot flashes, based on sternal skin conductance measurement
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Age range: 40 to 65 years and in menopausal transition or post-menopause;
- At least 8 years of education to ensure adequate reading proficiency;
- Primary language is English or Spanish.
Exclusion criteria
- History of medical or neurological illness or trauma that would affect the central nervous system (e.g., stroke, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy);
- Current severe medical conditions (e.g. Diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular disease, renal or hepatic disease, thyroid disorders);
- History of schizophrenia and/or bipolar disorder;
- Dependence or abuse of illicit substances in the past year;
- Current use of hormone therapy or other treatments for hot flash symptoms
Where
- Menlo Park, California
Collaborators
National Institute on Aging (NIA), Stanford University
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Sep 17, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations