Antidepressants for Hot Flashes

Studies have shown that certain antidepressants may help relieve hot flashes.^{Reference 1}

• In a randomized, controlled trial of escitalopram (Lexapro), researchers report that menopausal women had at least a 50% reduction in the severity and number of hot flashes a day after 8 weeks of treatment.^{Reference 2}
• Venlafaxine (Effexor) lowers the number and severity of hot flashes for most women. This includes women with severe hot flashes from tamoxifen, a cancer-fighting hormone drug. In several studies, venlafaxine was most effective for hot flashes when used at a lower dose than is normal for treating depression.^{Reference 3}

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