Menopause is a natural part of the aging process. In many cases, symptoms experienced by women may come on very gradually, making it difficult to even notice the changes. While menopause is a normal part of the aging process, it is not something you have to go through without assistance. In fact, there are many ways that menopause can be treated.
Should I Seek Treatment for Menopausal Symptoms?
This is a very situational question, and the answer varies from person to person. Essentially, you should consider seeking treatment for menopausal symptoms in the event that they interfere with your day-to-day life.
Communicating with your physicians about your experiences with menopause is an important step. This can help you get information about what you may expect and to be able to respond in the event that symptoms cause disruptions for you.
Common Menopause Medication
There are many different medications that can be prescribed for the treatment of menopause symptoms. Let’s take a look at some of the most common.
Hormone Therapy
One of the most frequently prescribed treatments is hormone therapy. This may occur during or even after menopause. This is often the preferred treatment for hot flashes and involves the use of estrogen, progestin, or a combination of both. Estrogen hormone therapy also helps prevent bone loss.
Antidepressants
Some women develop depressive symptoms during menopause. This transition can affect your mood, and women can be twice as likely to develop depression during menopause. Antidepressants are often a treatment while a class of antidepressants (SSRIs) can also reduce hot flashes.
Gabapentin
This drug is approved for the treatment of seizures. However, it has also been found useful in treating hot flashes from menopause. It is an effective treatment for people who cannot have estrogen therapy for health reasons.
Clonidine
Typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure, this can also provide relief for different symptoms of depression.
Vaginal Estrogen
For women who are experiencing vaginal dryness, a cream, tablet, or ring can be used to deliver a small amount of estrogen. This is then absorbed by the surrounding tissue to address it.
Osteoporosis Medications
A final common medication that people may take during menopause are those for osteoporosis. There are many different medications for this that work to prevent bone loss and reduce the risk of broken bones.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, there are many different types of medications that can be prescribed for people going through menopause. These can vary based upon the symptoms experienced and their severity. If you are having difficulty with menopause symptoms, schedule an appointment to speak to your doctor.
