Hot flashes
A large number of menopausal women experience hot flashes. Hot flashes may be precipitated by psychological stress, hot weather, caffeine, spicy foods, or alcohol. Hot flashes are described as a sudden sensation of heat felt in the face, neck, and chest that spreads over the entire body. They are usually accompanied by profuse sweating followed by a chill. The incidence is greatest in the first two postmenopausal years. Night sweats are particularly disturbing for menopausal women. Night sweats alter sleep patterns, causing insomnia and irritability.
Non-hormonal interventions
A number of non-hormonal remedies are available for the treatment of hot flashes. Their goal is not to eliminate hot flashes altogether but to diminish their intensity and frequency. Some of these interventions (e.g., vitamin E, black cohosh, and soy products) are available over-the-counter. Others are available by prescription.
| Drug |
Dosage |
Side Effects |
| Evening Primrose Oil |
Variable |
Nausea, diarrhea, blood clots. Do not use if seizure history or on blood thinners. |
| Black cohosh |
20 mg twice a day |
Mild stomach upset. Safe up to 6 mos. |
| Soy (plant estrogen) |
Variable |
Appears safe if consumed in foods. |
| Catapres |
1 mg in a.m. and at bedtime (also in patch form) |
Dry mouth, drowsiness, fatigue, lowers blood pressure |
| Prozac |
20 mg in am |
Dry mouth, nausea, insomnia. |
| Paxil |
20 mg at bedtime |
Fatigue, nausea. |
| Effexor |
37.5 mg to 75 mg a day |
Fatigue, nausea, headache, dry mouth. Elevated blood pressure (at high doses). |
| Neurontin |
Up to 300 mg three times a day |
Fatigue, dizziness, nausea. |
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This information is provided by the Cleveland Clinic and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition. This document was last reviewed on: 10/20/2006
