Q. You wrote about antidepressants like Effexor for hot flash relief and I thought I’d share my experience. My doctor prescribed Effexor XR for my hot flashes five years ago. I took one tablet at bedtime, as directed, and did not sleep all night. Only when the drug wore off was I able to sleep.
I was nauseated and lightheaded for 18 hours. My first capsule of Effexor was also my last, because during that 18-hour period, I was not sure if I was going to live or die.
A. We are sorry to learn you had such a difficult time with Effexor XR. Nausea, dizziness and insomnia are common reactions to this drug. Women who tolerate the drug may find that the side effects are easier to handle than hot flashes, but others will come to the same conclusion as you.
All the experts agree that the most effective treatment for menopausal hot flashes is estrogen, but it is not for everyone. Some women, especially those who have had breast cancer, need to avoid this hormone.
Another pharmaceutical option that we failed to mention in the earlier column is gabapentin (Neurontin). This prescription drug may cause dizziness and fatigue, but it is more effective than placebo at controlling hot flashes (Maturitas, May, 2012).
Women who are interested in other options to control hot flashes may wish to consult our Guide to Menopause. In it we discuss both medications and nondrug approaches that may be helpful.
