From the Guidelines
It is not recommended to take 10mg of paroxetine for menopause symptoms if your prescribed dose is 7.5mg, as this could lead to increased side effects and decreased quality of life. The 7.5mg dose of paroxetine, often sold as Brisdelle for menopause, was specifically developed and FDA-approved for managing hot flashes and is lower than doses used for depression or anxiety 1. This lower dose was determined to provide symptom relief while minimizing side effects. Increasing your paroxetine dose without medical supervision could lead to more severe side effects such as nausea, dizziness, headaches, sleep disturbances, or increased anxiety.
Some key points to consider:
- Paroxetine is effective in reducing the frequency and severity of hot flashes, but side effects are relatively common 1.
- The therapeutic range for paroxetine is 70-120 ng/mL, and taking a higher dose than prescribed could lead to levels outside of this range, increasing the risk of side effects 1.
- If you feel your current dose isn't adequately controlling your menopause symptoms, contact your healthcare provider to discuss your concerns, as they may adjust your medication or recommend complementary approaches.
It's essential to prioritize your health and well-being by following the prescribed dosage and consulting with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen.
From the Research
Paroxetine Dosage for Menopause Symptoms
The prescribed dose of paroxetine for menopause symptoms is 7.5mg, but the pharmacy only has 10mg available.
- The standard dosage of paroxetine for menopause symptoms is 7.5mg, as approved by the US FDA 2.
- Studies have shown that paroxetine is effective in reducing vasomotor symptoms in postmenopausal women at doses of 7.5-12.5 mg/day 3.
- Taking 10mg of paroxetine may still be effective, but it is slightly higher than the recommended dose.
- A study found that paroxetine 10 mg/day increased brain-derived neurotrophic factor in postmenopausal women and reduced climacteric symptoms 4.
- However, the most commonly recommended dose for menopause symptoms is 7.5mg, and it is not clear if taking 10mg would provide additional benefits or increase the risk of side effects.
Potential Risks and Benefits
- Paroxetine has been shown to be safe and effective for the treatment of vasomotor symptoms in menopausal women at doses of 7.5-12.5 mg/day 3.
- The most common adverse effects reported were mild-to-moderate in severity, and improved tolerability was associated with lower doses (7.5-12.5 mg/day) 3.
- A study found that paroxetine 7.5 mg improved sleep in women with vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause, with significant reductions in nighttime awakenings and increases in sleep duration 5.
Considerations
- It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any medication, especially if the prescribed dose is not available.
- The healthcare provider can assess the individual's specific needs and determine the best course of action.
- They can also monitor for potential side effects and adjust the dosage as needed.