What can a breast cancer patient use to control menopausal hot flashes?

[lisab]

I was diagnosed with breast cancer almost four years ago.  I had two biopsies followed by a mastectomy.  The first biopsy showed DCIS.  The second biopsy, done to get a clear margin, contained a miniscule malignant tumor.  The tissue removed by the mastectomy did not contain any cancerous cells.  The 17 lymph nodes removed were clean. The second biopsy had apparently contained the only cancer that was present.  Thus, I did not have chemo or radiation.

I am 47 and began entering menopause about the same time as my diagnosis.  I am not taking tamox yet have terrible hot flashes periodically all day and night.  I have a family history of breast cancer on my mother's side (mother, aunt).

It's been suggested, by someone in an internet newsgroup, that I take 400 mg of vitamin C four times a day along with black coohosh.

What would be your recommendation?  I'd really like to get some sleep!

Thanks.

[Janet E]

I am so glad I read this.  Just yesterday my doctor prescribed effexor for hot flashes and headaches.  I have searched the internet all morning, but could only find information on depression.  This is the first thing I found indicating effexor could be used for menopause. I know how you feel.  Between the hot flashes, sleepless nights and headaches I just can get any rest!  I haven't filled my prescription yet, so I don't know how it will work.  I worry about different medications.  I also had breast cancer 5 years ago at the age of 42.  Good Luck.

[Janet E]

I am so glad I read this.  Just yesterday my doctor prescribed effexor for hot flashes and headaches.  I have searched the internet all morning, but could only find information on depression.  This is the first thing I found indicating effexor could be used for menopause. I know how you feel.  Between the hot flashes, sleepless nights and headaches I just can get any rest!  I haven't filled my prescription yet, so I don't know how it will work.  Good Luck.

[Rmj]

I too have had breast cancer (12 years ago at the age of 43), I have since gone through menopausal hot flashes (night swets) and other discomforts. I found that exercise, Vit E, and Remifemin (a hormone free, natural support for menopause) has worked best for me. And I think over time everything is better. I know I am sleeping better now.

[CCF-RN,MSN-JS]

The best way to manage hot flashes is through hormone replacement therapy.  However, there continues to be much debate over whether estrogen should be prescribed when a woman has a strong family history of breast cancer, or has been treated for breast or endometrial cancer.

Over the counter treatments that some women have found to be helpful in managing the symptom of hot flashes are: Vitamin E (up to 1200 IU a day), Vitamin B complex, and ibuprophen.  Black cohosh has also been used but has estrogenic properties that may not be recommended for women with a history of breast cancer.

There has been some research with the use of the medications venlafaxine (effexor) an anti-depressant, bellergal and clonidine, for treatment of hot flashes, these would need to be prescribed by your physician. It is important to talk to your physician before you take any medications, to be sure there is no contraindication to any of these treatments in your individual situation.