We know that going through "the change" can be brutal. It is not uncommon that women come to us with notable menopausal symptoms that are effecting their lifes. Hormones replacement therapy can be a great option for treatment but we know not everyone is a great candidate. Hormone replacement does come with inherent risks and some people make have contra-indications or are not good candidates or prefer to not be on hormones. If that is you, no worries! We got you! There is still hope! Check out below for some great non-hormonal options for treatment of your pesky menopausal symptoms and talk to a provider today to see how we can help you! <3
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI)
- Commonly used for anxiety and depression
- Work in the brain on serotonin regulation
- Help with hot and cold perception in treating hot flashes in women without depression
- Paroxetine is the only SSRI approved for treatment of menopausal symptoms though Vanlafaxine, and Escitalopram have shown benefit in treating symptoms as well.
Gabapentin
- Commonly used to treat seizures, migraines, and nerve pain
- May cause drowsiness. Recommend taking at night to help with night sweats.
Oxybutynin - NEW
- On label for overactive bladder
- In clinic trials has been shown to improve hot flashes and night sweats, pending FDA approval
No Longer Recommended Treatments
Over the Counter Supplements
- Lack of rigorous evidence-based research to show benefit
Lifestyle Changes
- Weight loss
- Women who are overweight have more hot flashes
- Maintaining a healthy weight and exercising regularly can decrease symptoms and improve overall health
- Mind/body techniques – Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), hypnosis, and pace breathing
- All have been shown effective and decreasing severity of menopausal symptoms
- Pace breathing – slow, deep abdominal breathing in through nose and out through mouth 5-7 time per minute
Treatment Still Being Researched
- Non -hormonal treatment with Neurokinin B antagonists – promising findings
Dr. Clarizio
Author
Dr. Katharine Clarizio, DO
Dr. Katharine Clarizio is a skilled and personable Obstetrician and Gynecologist. She is originally from Pawnee, Illinois. Being a small town girl living in the city, she maintains the values of bringing personalize care, intimate and professional relationships, and her midwestern love for people to each person she has the privilege of taking care of. Dr. Clarizio works hand in hand with her OB patients, seeing them each visit, to create the most optimal experience for the woman and baby. She also is a skilled surgeon, having received both the American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists Recognition of Excellence in Minimally Invasive Gynecology Award as well as the Society of Laparoscopic and Robotic Surgeons Excellence in her training.
Dr. Clarizio resides in North Scottsdale. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family, traveling, volunteering, hiking, and trying new things. She is proud to be on the Young Professionals Council for The Cancer Support Community of Arizona.
