Pharmacotherapy of Perimenopausal and Menopausal Symptoms: An Overview

Perimenopause and menopause are crucial life transitions marked by hormonal changes, leading to symptoms like menstrual irregularities, hot flashes, mood swings, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular risks.Symptom prevalence varies by region and ethnicity, influenced primarily by fluctuations in estrogen, progesterone, FSH, and inhibin.Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) remains the most effective treatment for vasomotor and genitourinary symptoms, with options like estrogen therapy, combined HRT, and tissueselective estrogen complexes (TSECs).For those unable to take hormones, non-hormonal treatments such as SSRIs, SNRIs, gabapentin, and clonidine provide relief.Emerging therapies like neurokinin receptor antagonists and stellate ganglion block (SGB) show promise in symptom control.A multidisciplinary approach that integrates medical, psychological, and lifestyle strategies can ensure a smoother transition through menopause and improve the quality of life for affected individuals.While pharmacotherapy offers significant benefits, personalized treatment plans considering individual risk factors, evolving health needs, and patient preferences are essential for optimizing long-term outcomes and overall well-being.