Gabapentin for Hot Flashes
vs
SSRIs for Hot Flashes
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 |  Gabapentin for Hot FlashesAn off-label gabapentin prescription that may reduce hot flashes. Pregabalin is a related gabapentinoid but is not recommended for hot flashes. |  SSRIs for Hot FlashesA low-dose SSRI (paroxetine 7.5 mg) approved by the FDA for moderate-to-severe hot flashes. |
|---|---|---|
| Efficacy | 45% reduction in hot flash frequency Around 45% reduction in hot flash frequency. | Recommended see details Recommended by the Menopause Society for symptom relief. |
| Cost | $4–$30 /monthly Insurance: Usually | $0–$200 /monthly Insurance: Usually |
| Duration | Daily pill (ongoing) | Daily pill (ongoing) |
| Reversibility | Reversible | Reversible |
| STI Protection | No | No |
| How it works | Gabapentin binds to the alpha-2-delta subunit of voltage-gated calcium channels in the central nervous system, which may calm overactive temperature regulation and reduce hot flash frequency. Pregabalin binds the same target but NAMS 2023 does not recommend it for hot flashes. | Low-dose paroxetine affects serotonin and other neurotransmitters involved in temperature regulation, which can reduce hot flash frequency and severity. |
| Prescription | Required Prescription required | Required Prescription required |
| Available Products | 1 product | 1 product |
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| Who shouldn't use this |
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