When it comes to treating the hot flashes and night sweats of menopause, estrogen therapy is the standard of effective treatment. But for some women, estrogen isn’t a good fit. For those women, a new treatment option may soon be available. A recent double-blind study in JAMA Internal Medicine has found that the antidepressant venlafaxine is an effective, alternative way to treat hot flashes and night sweats for postmenopausal women.
Currently, one antidepressant, paroxetine (brisdelle), is FDA approved for the treatment of hot flashes, although many doctors prescribe other antidepressants for off the label treatment of hot flashes.
The Research
Researchers found that venlafaxine (a generic form of Effexor) was nearly as effective as low-dose estrogen therapy in treating hot flashes. The trial of group of 339 women consisted of menopausal and postmenopausal whom, before the study began, experienced symptoms of night sweats and hot flashes at least 14 times a week.
For the study, the women were divided into three groups: a placebo group, a group of women taking estradiol (a form of estrogen), and a group of women taking venlafaxine. The study, led by Dr. Hadine Joffe of Harvard, found that the frequency of night flashes declined by 52.9% in the estradiol group and 47.6% in the Effexor group.
While the study didn’t attempt to prove which of the drugs was most effective, it did provide evidence that Effexor can be an effective means of treating hot flashes compared to low dose estrogen therapy.
The Estrogen Debate
Though high dose estrogen therapy is the most effective form of treatment for hot flashes, the North American Menopause Society recommends that women use the lowest effective dose of estrogen because of the associated risks of estrogen therapy. These risks include an increased risk of breast cancer, heart disease, and stroke. Because of these risks, some women want to avoid estrogen all together.
While estrogen therapy may offer less side effects and more benefits to women, (such as increase vaginal moisture, improved mood, and a reduced risk of osteoporosis), antidepressants may offer relief with less long term associated risks, but with some unwanted side effects. These side effects may include:
- Possible weight gain
- Nausea
- Stomach upset
- Sleepiness
Women should always talk with their doctor about the benefits and risks of both antidepressants and estrogen therapy before choosing a form of treatment.
The new study continues to open the door to more available effective treatment options for women. If you’re experiencing unwanted side effects of menopause, talk to your well woman care provider at All About Women. We’re here to help women in the Gainesville and Lake City communities choose the best treatment for their situation. You can begin to learn more about menopause by visiting our Knowledge Center.
