Menopause Matters Forum
Menopause Discussion => All things menopause => Topic started by: Aquarius on April 28, 2018, 11:36:57 AM
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Hi, my first post on here! Due to start Elleste HRT tomorrow, doctor has finally given me this to try after being on antidepressants for 12 weeks due to anxiety. Fingers crossed this works as I can't cope being on these horrible tablets any longer.
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It can take 3-4 months B4 Anti-depressant medication shows benefit. Some ADs can indeed relieve menopause symptoms. Were you depressed or anxious?
Let us know how you get on with the HRT. You could put the product name into the search box on here to see how others have found it?
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I'd had menopause symptoms as well as losing our 12 year dog with cancer suddenly, I lost a close uncle with cancer unexpectedly and had ear and sinus problems. I think all this triggered the anxiety which is why doctor prescribed antidepressants. Menopause symptoms have improved but antidepressants don't seem to be suiting me, I would have thought after 12 weeks I should see some improvement! I'm hoping that HRT will help and replace the lost oestrogen, I also have relapsing remitting MS. :(
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Sadly finding the right SSRI can be a case of trial and error. If the HRT doesn't sort out the problem then consider changing the SSRI. I take escitalopram and it is supposed to be good for fewer side effects so maybe suggest that one to your doctor.
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Yes you should feel different after 3 months. Do you feel depressed and/or anxious? There are others on here with MS, perhaps put it into the search box?
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After 12 weeks you certainly should be feeling some benefit if the AD is going to work; as the others have said, some work for some people and others for others, so you might have to try a few, but to be honest if you are menopausal your doctor should be considering hormonal treatments before automatically prescribing antidepressants - they just do it automatically, we are an invisible section of the population as far as most GPs are concerned. Low estrogen can certainly cause depression, and low testosterone can be a cause of anxiety. And as for progesterone, well that's a whole other ball game.If you're able to I'd ask for a referral to a menopause clinic/specialist where they actually know what they're doing.