CBT for Hot Flashes
vs
Stellate Ganglion Block

A side-by-side comparison of two menopause relief methods — efficacy, cost, how they work, and who shouldn't use them.

Side-by-side comparison

Method
CBT for Hot Flashes

CBT for Hot Flashes

A structured, evidence-based talk therapy that teaches skills to manage the impact of hot flashes and night sweats.
Stellate Ganglion Block

Stellate Ganglion Block

An injection of local anesthetic into a nerve bundle in the neck that may interrupt hot flash signals for several months.
EfficacyRecommended see details

Recommended by the Menopause Society for symptom relief.

Recommended (limited evidence) see details

Recommended with limited evidence by the Menopause Society.

Cost$0–$200 /per unit

Insurance: Varies

$500–$1,500

Insurance: No

Duration4 weekly sessionsUp to 6 months per injection (based on the Walega 2014 trial endpoint)
ReversibilityReversibleReversible
STI ProtectionNoNo
How it works

CBT teaches skills to manage the physical and emotional impact of hot flashes, including pacing activities, breathing techniques, and cognitive reframing. It does not eliminate hot flashes but reduces how bothersome they are.

A clinician injects local anesthetic into the stellate ganglion, a nerve bundle in the neck that is part of the sympathetic nervous system. This may interrupt the temperature-regulation signals that trigger hot flashes.

PrescriptionOTC Therapist-delivered (no Rx)Required Prescription required
Available ProductsNo branded products yetNo branded products yet
Side effects
  • None reported in trials
  • Temporary hoarseness
  • Drooping eyelid (Horner's syndrome, temporary)
  • Nasal congestion
  • Arm weakness (temporary)
  • Rare serious complications (seizure, cardiac arrest if injected into blood vessel)
Who shouldn't use thisNone reported
  • Active anticoagulation therapy
  • Local infection at injection site
  • Severe bleeding disorder
  • Allergy to local anesthetic