Venlafaxine (Effexor) - Off-Label for Hot Flashes

About

Venlafaxine is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) FDA-approved for depression and anxiety but commonly prescribed off-label at lower doses for managing hot flashes in menopausal women, especially those who cannot take hormone therapy.

Efficacy

Clinical trials show reduction in hot flash frequency by 40-60% and severity by 30-50%, compared to 20-30% with placebo

Targets Symptoms