It is estimated that close to 40% of the world's 1.2 billion women will be post-menopausal or menopausal by 2030. That's nearly 50 million women and, among those, ~60-70% are likely to suffer from menopausal symptoms. Although hormone therapy (HT) is suggested for curtailing both vasomotor symptoms and mood disturbances, HT treatment continues to be controversial. Aside from breast cancer and cardiovascular concerns, research shows that HT itself might also increase the risk of depression.
In a recent discussion among OB-GYNs and primary care clinicians, about half stated they treat menopausal vasomotor symptoms with antidepressants such as SSRIs, SNRIs, and bupropion. While there was agreement that the treatment may not address all of the symptoms, research has confirmed that antidepressants are effective in treating both depression and vasomotor symptoms shortly before, during, and after menopause.
Which antidepressant(s) do you find most effective for the treatment of menopause? Have you observed whether these are the same antidepressants that work in younger women for premenstrual dysphoric disorder?
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Cindy Spicka, ADVOCATE SOUTH SUBURBAN HOSPITAL2yrI was started on effexor XR 37.5 mg QHS and it has helped with night time hot flashes and my sleep. -
Subathra Selvaraj2yrI have used paroxetine at low doses for vasomotor symptoms. This is FDA approved for this indication at 7.5 mg
