From the Research
Asthenia is a state of generalized weakness, fatigue, or lack of energy that can be caused by various underlying conditions, and its management should prioritize addressing the underlying cause to improve quality of life and reduce morbidity and mortality. To address asthenia, the following steps can be taken:
- Consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation to determine the underlying cause, as asthenia can be a symptom of various conditions, including depression, iron-deficiency anemia, and hypothyroidism 1.
- Common treatments may include:
- Rest and proper sleep hygiene (7-9 hours per night)
- Balanced nutrition with adequate protein, complex carbohydrates, and vitamins
- Regular, moderate exercise (start with 15-30 minutes daily, gradually increasing)
- Stress reduction techniques like meditation or deep breathing exercises
- If an underlying medical condition is identified, specific treatments may be prescribed, such as:
- Iron supplements (typically 65-325 mg elemental iron daily) for iron-deficiency anemia
- Levothyroxine (usually starting at 25-50 mcg daily) for hypothyroidism
- Antidepressants like sertraline (50-200 mg daily) or fluoxetine (20-80 mg daily) for depression
- In some cases, supportive treatments may be recommended, such as:
- B-complex vitamins (one tablet daily)
- Coenzyme Q10 (100-200 mg daily)
- Adaptogenic herbs like Rhodiola rosea (200-400 mg daily) It is essential to note that asthenia can significantly impact quality of life, and its management should prioritize addressing the underlying cause to improve overall energy levels and well-being, as highlighted in a recent study 2. Additionally, a study published in 2024 found that Recognan (citicoline) can be effective in treating asthenic conditions, particularly in patients with cardiovascular diseases and post-COVID asthenia 3. However, the most recent and highest-quality study should be prioritized when making treatment decisions.