Menopause Medications & Treatments

Decide based on your primary symptoms (hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, vaginal dryness, bone health), medical history, and risk factors; discuss options with a clinician to compare hormone therapy, non-hormonal prescription medications, and over-the-counter supplements or botanicals

Hormone therapy can effectively reduce vasomotor and genitourinary symptoms but is not recommended for people with a history of certain cancers, unexplained vaginal bleeding, active blood clots, or recent stroke; evaluate benefits and risks with a healthcare provider before starting

Some supplements (like black cohosh, soy isoflavones, and plant-based formulations) may modestly help vasomotor symptoms or mood for some users, but evidence varies and product formulations differ, so check ingredients, clinically supported dosages, and consult a provider for safety and interactions

Costs vary by treatment type: many OTC supplements and non-prescription topical products are commonly under $50, while prescription medications or compounded therapies can be higher; expect an average around the mid-range for products in broad marketplaces

Track symptom frequency and severity, sleep and mood changes, and any adverse effects for several weeks to months; schedule follow-up with your clinician to adjust dosing, switch treatments, or run necessary safety labs or screenings

Yes—hormones, antidepressants, and some supplements can interact with blood thinners, some cancer therapies, and metabolic conditions; review your full medication list and medical history with a healthcare professional before beginning any new therapy