Prescribable medications
- 23 Jan 2024
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Prescribable medications
- Updated on 23 Jan 2024
- 1 Minute to read
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Most non-hormonal treatments have been evaluated for their impact on hot flushes, night sweats or mood. For further information on doses see the BMS prescribable alternatives to HRT factsheet or the prescribing information section.
Some examples include:
- Selective serotonin inhibitors (SSRIs off-label) or serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRI off-label). Venlafaxine, Paroxetine and Citalopram are the most effective.
- Paroxetine, Sertraline and Fluoxetine can reduce the efficacy of Tamoxifen and should be avoided in women using this treatment.
- Clonidine (alpha 2 adrenergic receptor agonist).
- Gabapentin or Pregabalin (off-label) depending on local prescribing guidelines.
- Oxybutynin (off-label).
- Beta-blockers (for panic symptoms and palpitations).
- Vaginal moisturisers and lubricants such as Replens MD® YES or SYLK brands.
- Although not available yet on the NHS, the neurokinin 3 receptor antagonist Fezolinetant was licensed by the MHRA for vasomotor symptoms on 14.12.2023. This is a promising new novel treatment for menopausal flushes. For more information click here.
References and Further Information:
- Woyka J. Prescribable alternatives to HRT. British Menopause Society. Tools for clinicians. July 2020.
- Woyka J. BMS Consensus statement. Non hormonal based treatments for menopausal symptoms. June 2022.
- Hunter M and Smith M. Cognitive behavioural therapy for menopausal symptoms. British Menopause Society. Tools for clinicians. October 2019.
- Woyka J. Complementary and alternative therapies. Non hormonal prescribed treatments. Womens health concern fact sheet. September 2020.
- Nonhormonal management of menopause-associated vasomotor symptoms: 2015 position statement of The North American Menopause Society. Menopause. 2015;22(11):1155-72.
- Khan S, Kapoor E, Faubion S et al. Vasomotor symptoms during menopause a practical guide on current treatments and future perspectives. International Journal of Women's Health. See page 280. 2023
- BMS update. Fezolinetant licensed by the MHRA. December 2023.
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