Venlafaxine Hydrochloride for the Treatment of Hot Flashes

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To review the literature evaluating venlafaxine for the treatment of hot flashes. DATA SOURCES: Clinical literature accessed through MEDLINE (1966–August 2002), PubMed, Harrison's Online, and references of reviewed articles. Key terms used were venlafaxine, Effexor, hot flashes, and vasomotor symptoms. DATA SYNTHESIS: Not all patients experiencing hot flashes are candidates for traditional hormonal therapy. Nonhormonal alternatives have long been explored, but conflicting evidence of efficacy exists. CONCLUSIONS: Venlafaxine is an effective nonhormonal alternative for relief from uncontrolled hot flashes.