Effexor could help control hot flashes in menopausal breast cancer patients
A study by researchers at McGill University Health Centre, published in the December 2010 issue of the journal Maturitas, found that Effexor can be used to manage menopausal symptoms for women who are recovering from breast cancer.
A study by researchers at McGill University Health Centre, published in the December 2010 issue of the journal Maturitas, found that Effexor can be used to manage menopausal symptoms for women who are recovering from breast cancer. Unlike other anti-depressants, which can lessen the effects of Tamoxifen, a drug used in the treatment of breast cancer, Effexor does not interact with Tamoxifen, so it is safe to prescribe. Anti-depressants have been prescribed by doctors for many years for patients who are unable to or do not want to use the traditional treatment - estrogen therapy - to manage their hot flashes. Additionally, doctors don't typically prescribe estrogen therapy for menopause to breast cancer patients because it is associated with an increased risk for breast cancer. However, the FDA recently approved Paxil (paroxetine) for use as an alternative management mechanism for menopausal symptoms. In a recent Boston Globe article, Dr. Isaac Schiff, chair of gynecology at Massachusetts General Hospital, indicated that he may begin to prescribe Effexor to breast cancer patients for managing hot flashes. Patients can buy Effexor from an online pharmacy for convenience and reduced costs. |
