Anxiety associated with menopause

As the first SNRI drug approved, venlafaxine has become one of the first-line choices for depression and anxiety disorder [45,46]. An active metabolite, desvenlafaxine (19), is also under clinical development for the treatment of major depressive disorders [47], Preclinical studies also indicate that 19 may be effective in relieving vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause (e.g., hot flushes and night sweats) [47,48]. Desvenlafaxine is reported to be in clinical development for the treatment of fibromyalgia and neuropathic pain, as well as vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause [68]. 

The German E Commission has approved St. John s wort for internal consumption for psychogenic disturbances, depressive states, sleep disorders, and anxiety and nervous excitement, particularly that associated with menopause. Oily Hypericum preparations are approved for stomach and gastrointestinal complaints, including diarrhea. Oily Hypericum preparations are also approved by the Commission E for external use for the treatment of incised and contused wounds, muscle aches, and first degree burns (96). 

Three studies investigated the effects of kava extracts on anxiety associated with peri- and post-menopause. Warnecke etal. (1990) assessed the effects of kava extract WS 1490... 

Some of the growth in antidepressant use may be related to the broad application of these agents for conditions other than major depression. For example, antidepressants have received FDA approvals for the treatment of panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). In addition, antidepressants are commonly used to treat pain disorders such as neuropathic pain and the pain associated with fibromyalgia. Some antidepressants are used for treating premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), mitigating the vasomotor symptoms of menopause, and treating stress urinary incontinence. Thus, antidepressants have a broad... 

Menopause, (cessation of menstruation)), usually occurs between 45 and 55 years of age. Prior to menopause, only a few follicles remain in the ovary and they are less sensitive to FSH and LH. Ovulation does not consistently occur and oestrogen levels gradually fall. The symptoms experienced are associated with reduced oestrogen concentration and include hot flashes, sweating, headaches, palpitations, nervousness, anxiety, depression, poor... 

Other reported dangers are the kava-containing supplements. Supplements containing the herbal ingredient kava are promoted for relaxation. For instance, kava is known to relieve stress, anxiety, and tension for sleeplessness, and menopausal symptoms. There has not yet been a determination from FDA that kava-containing products have the ability to perform such benefits. Kava-containing products have been associated with liver-related injuries, including hepatitis, cirrhosis, and liver failure. 

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