Apart from HRT is there other medication for hot flushes available from GP?

[brunette123]

Is there any medication available on prescription from GP for hot flushes apart from HRT which I cannot have due to family history of breast cancer? Am not finding sage or agnus castus helps. Many thanks indeed

Some women find that certain anti depressants can help. Have a look at the advice on www.menopausematters.co.uk under treatments and prescribed alternatives.

However, you might want to see a consultant gynae who specialises in meno to discuss the 'no HRT'.

My consultant regards 'higher risk' as 2 first degree relatives ( mother, sister, daughter) who had BC under the age of 45. There are also newer HRT preparations that may not increase BC risk- bioidentical oestrogen and bioidentical progesterone.

This is from the website patient.co.uk

Micronised progesterones are natural, 'body-identical' progesterones, devoid of any androgenic as well as glucocorticoid activities but being slightly hypotensive due to their anti-mineralocorticoid activity. These appear to be the optimal progestogen in terms of cardiovascular effects, blood pressure, VTE, probably stroke and even breast cancer.[28] Utrogestan® is the only one currently available to prescribe in the UK.

sorry if you have a really strong family history and this is not relevant but might be helpful.

oh thank you that is very helpful. I want to avoid antidepressants - previously been on citalopram and venlafaxine 5 years ago for depression (both seem to be suggested for meno) with significant intolerable side effects. Seeing my GP in a few days to discuss. I cannot imagine how I will cope with summer the way I am at the moment let alone a holiday abroad!
thanks again

what is the family history with BC?

In my experience ( of what I've seen on forums) GPs are not the experts on HRT and you may not get an accurate answer.

Some drs are happy to give HRT to breast cancer survivors so it really isn't as simple as some people assume.