Do venlafaxine and gabapentin control hot flashes in women with a history of breast cancer?

Abstract

Venlafaxine reduces hot flashes more than placebo in women with a history of breast cancer; adverse effects include dry mouth and constipation (strength of recommendation [SOR]: B, randomized clinical trials [RCTs] with heterogeneous outcomes). Gabapentin also reduces hot flashes more than placebo (SOR: B, a single RCT); adverse effects include dizziness and somnolence (SOR: C, standard reference). After having tried both medications, women tend to prefer venlafaxine (SOR: C, open-label crossover trial). Treating hot flashes is an off-label use for both drugs.