Starting HRT in your 60’s

[Bev62]

I have been suffering from anxiety & depression since Sept 2020.
Currently taking 75mg with minimal effect. My GP has suggested I give HRT a try. I’m 63 and had no problems with the menopause and never suffered with hot flushes.
Anyone been in a similar situation?
I’ve read the side effects leaflets which of course are v scary and even include depression.
Advice/ experience would be much appreciated.

Is there a word missing from your post? 75mg - of what?

If your dr is confident it may help you, give it a whirl for a few months.

A lot depends on your medical history and when your depression and anxiety began, and if it's influenced by life events. Your dr will know more than anyone here.

But for the record, SSRIs are not supposed to be prescribed for women now suffering from depression during or soon after menopause unless they cannot use HRT or have a strong diagnosis of depression.

oops! That was supposed to say 75mg of Venlafaxine an anti depressant.
I’ve never heard of anyone being prescribed HRT in their 60’s before and wondered if this was unusual?

I have heard from meno consultants that they have patients on it in their 90s, and started quite late too.

It's quite possible to start it in your 60s but the dose has to be low to start and transdermal. There is medical guidance on how to do this and your GP should read it if they don't know. You'd not take pills- it would be patches or estrogen gel.