Menopause Treatment

Question: What are the treatments available for menopause?

No one every said menopause was easy, but help is on the way. Changing hormones can cause a number of unpleasant symptoms. Your G.P. or pharmacist can prescribe medications that address the physical effects of these hormone changes as well as the physiological effects. 

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

Most women have heard of HRT, but not everyone fully understands it.  There is not a silver bullet for menopause symptoms, but HRT may be the closest that chemists have come. The name “hormone replacement therapy,” is a good indication of what the drug does: it replaces the hormone estrogen, which is the female hormone that decreases during the course of menopause. The reduction of estrogen is a normal part of aging, but normal does not always mean pleasant. 

Because HRT treats the source of the symptoms – the hormone change - rather than responding to one symptom at a time, it can be quite effective in reducing the overall troubles of menopause. HRT can relieve hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal symptoms and urinary tract infections. The pharmacist may give you a cream or gel, tablet, or skin patch. HRT is also available as an implant. 

Talk to your pharmacist to understand the possible side effects. These include weight gain, tender breasts, nausea, headaches, and mood changes. If you are experiencing these side effects, your G.P. and pharmacist may help you reduce your dose or suggest that you change the kind of HRT you are taking. Or, depending on the severity of your symptoms and risk factors, perhaps the best answer for you is to avoid HRT altogether. 

HRT medicines can increase a woman’s risk of health problems such as breast cancer, heart disease and stroke. But then again, some women - those with early onset menopause and those who have had their ovaries removed - may be prone to other health problems, if they do not take HRT. These conditions include osteoporosis, coronary heart disease, and dementia. 

As you can see, the logic puzzle of whether or not to take HRT can become complex rather quickly. This is why it is best to consult your G.P. who can take all these factors into account given your personal health history and lifestyle. If you still have periods, your G.P. may suggest a combined HRT that includes both estrogen and progesterone. If you are past menopause, your G.P. might prescribe continued HRT.

Alternatives to HRT

Women under the age of 60 might be interested in Tibolone, a hormone that is similar to HRT. It still has some risks, but generally the risks less than the risks associated with HRT. In addition to addressing hot flashes and night sweats, Tibolone may improve sex drive and can also help to prevent spinal fractures. 

Another medication that is now commonly prescribed for menopause is Clondine. This medication was originally created for hypertension (high blood pressure), but has been found to reduce hot flashes and night sweats. For women who have trouble regulating their temperature, this can feel like a lifesaver. If you start taking this medication, plan to check in with your pharmacist at two weeks and four weeks to report back as to whether your symptoms are improving. 

Other alternatives to HRT include antidepressants, lubricants, and the usual: healthy eating and regular exercise. Some women have also found it helpful to carry a small fan in their purse for when the hot flashes arise. If anyone asks, don’t be ashamed, just tell the person you’re having a “power surge” and continue whatever you were talking about before the hot flash came on.  

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John Keane is a full time pharmacist and owner of Keanes Pharmacy. Why not discuss this topic confidentially with John anytime in person at Keanes Pharmacy, Austin Friars or 0449342884 ©Keanes Pharmacy