Effexor use for Menopause

Hello! I was wondering if anyone could possibly help me. I had my hysterectomy done 2 years this April. I was tested for the BRACA gene since my mom was diagnosed with stage 3 ovarian cancer. My mother tested positive so I tested myself and unfortunately tested positive for the gene also. I had my surgery and went into menopause 3 months after surgery. I went on the Climara patch to ease the menopause symptoms. I knew the risks about taking any hormones when being diagnosed with the cancer gene. But couldn't stand the hot flashes and mood swings. My mom recently lost the battle with cancer, since her passing I stopped using any hormone therapy. I have been dealing with the menopausal symptoms for about 9 months now and it has been torture. My work, friendships and home life have been greatly affected by this. My hot flashes and night sweats seem to have gotten worse. Most nights I wake up in a pile of sweat. I can be happy one minute and crying the next. My life has been completely turned around since having stopped the hormone therapy. I also tried several over the counter pills with soy beans extracts and don't feel any relief. I have recently spoke with my GYN about my issues and she wants me to come in and discuss taking Effexor. It's a anti depressant medicine but they also use it for women with menopause. I have done a little research about it and I'm still unsure if I should take it. So my question is, has anyone taken the medication or know of someone who has taken it and could help me with my decision. I am only 32 years old and I can't imagine spending 30 more years of this. If anyone could please give me any information I would greatly appreciate it.

I work in an oncology office and several of our patients use it sucessfully. I'm 37 and have much the same background. I'm 3days post DaVh and am thinking of trying it if/when hot flashes become an issue.

Rene1215, thanks for your input. I also read that women take Paxil as well. Have any women in your office take Paxil?

None that I know of

My GYN also recommends acupuncture for menopause symptoms, and a couple women on here said it worked for them. I've not used either for menopause myself so I don't have personal experience, but you might want to check into acupuncture while you are deciding. Some insurance covers it. Also some cities have community acupuncture clinics that are affordable if your insurance doesn't cover it. It's good to at least have something else to consider. I hope you get some relief soon.

Our office has just started accupuncture as well, not sure of cost. Some ins also offer discounts for wellness benefits, like that and chiro, gyms (when dr says ok). Check with your plan.

I happened to already be on Lexapro for a mood disorder when I had my hyster. I am now on .075 Vivelle and continue on the Lexapro. So its only recently come to my attention that antidepressants are used to help with menopause. I have done just great with the Vivelle. I am now wondering if the Lexapro has been helping out this whole time. Since I wasn't on Vivelle only at any given time I can't tell you for sure that Lexapro has helped me. My husband is on Effexor and does great. Nothing bad at all. We will both be on our antidepressants for the rest of our life. At this time I am unaware of anything bad about this and have no problems with the idea that I will always have to take it. I understand what you are saying about the impacts on your life. I am on a rather low dose of the Lexapro and actually am still known as an emotional person at work. Its in control enough to have a normal life and friends and such.

As ladyluck29, I've been on this Menopause ride for the last 4 1/2 years. I had hoped that it would be going on the downside but doesn't look like it. Thought also of trying a low dose of Effexor for the Hot Flashes and to stable the mood, but I've heard that the withdraw effects can be bad. That is what is keeping me from trying it. I understand that you lower the dosage slowly under doctor's care, but has anyone had good results coming off Effexor once you decide to discontinue? Any info would be great.

I took Effexor for several years before weaning off. It took several months to wean myself completely and it wasn't very pleasant. For that reason, I would never choose that drug again. There are other SSRI drugs that can help with menopause symptoms, and your doctor should be able to help you with your decision.

I have not personally had experience with effexor, but have several friends who have had a terrible time coming off of it.