1. Begin in the Brain
Because antidepressants work on brain chemicals, it's only natural that one of their positive side effects is the reduction of hot flashes. When the part of the brain that controls your body's internal thermostat gets out of control a hot flash happens. Even though doctors prescribe antidepressants to elevate mood in people experiencing depression, hot flashes may come under control as well.
2. Hormone Replacement vs. Antidepressant
Even though many studies show evidence that antidepressants improve or alleviate hot flash symptoms, most doctors don't prescribed them for that specific reason. However, as more and more women weigh the risk of hormone replacement therapy to ease conditions associated with menopause, an antidepressant alternative may provide another answer. Hormone replacement has long been associated with increased risk of breast cancer. Antidepressants have no direct impact on hormone levels in the body.
3. Breast Cancer Studies
Most of the current evidence supporting antidepressants and their effect of hot flashes comes from breast cancer patients. Because chemotherapy causes menopausal symptoms in women, doctors look for ways to help with these unpleasant side effects. Recent studies show that chemotherapy patients given the drug Effexor experienced 40 to 60 percent fewer hot flashes.
4. The Earlier the Better
Current studies show that women in the early stages of menopause get the most hot flash relief from using antidepressants. It appears that women who are in the mid to later stages don't really reap the benefits. If you are experiencing more frequent hot flashes and think you may be in early stage menopause, ask your doctor about blood tests to determine if you have in fact started menopause. Talk with your doctor about a plan to help with menopausal symptoms and ask if antidepressants are a good choice for you.
5. Choose Your Side Effects
Long term use of antidepressants, like any drug, may come with certain undesirable side effects. Since the purpose of trying antidepressants is to get rid of one of the annoying side effects of menopause, it's difficult to decide if exchanging one thing for another is worth it. Antidepressants cause anxiety and insomnia in some women, which are also symptoms of menopause. It's important to remember there are many natural alternatives for hot flash relief. Some simple life style changes, herbal supplements and regular exercise may be enough to get you through the worst of the hot flashes without taking extreme measures.
