Vasomotor Symptoms: Clinical Management

Abstract

Vasomotor symptoms (VMS) or “hot flashes” are the most common complaint during the menopausal transition. Despite they affect quality of life and appear to be linked to cardiovascular, bone, and brain health, only a minor seek medical attention for treatment. The management of VMS is based on the symptom’s intensity and frequency and the women’s medical history and personal choice. There are several options for the treatment of hot flashes related to menopause, being the most effective the hormonal therapy. These data is supported by placebo-controlled trials. For those postmenopausal women with medical contraindications to estrogen or personal preference not to use hormonal therapies, there are options with good results, including paroxetine, venlafaxine, desvenlafaxine, citalopram, escitalopram, and gabapentin.