The comparison of paroxetine and gabapentin in the management of postmenopausal symptoms

Objective: To compare the clinical efficacy of gabapentin, an anticonvulsant agent, and paroxetine, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor in the management of post-menopausal symptoms. 

Methods: In this clinical trial, two groups of patients with menopause who had hot flashes were included. One group received gabapentin (600 mg daily, 23 cases) for 8 weeks. The other group received paroxetine (one capsule daily at the morning or at bedtime, 23 cases) for 8 weeks. The MRS (Menopause Rating Scale) as well as the Beck’s Depression Inventory were used to assess the efficacy of the studied medications.

Results: In paroxetine and gabapentin groups, hot flashes, sleep problems, muscle/joint pains, depression, irritability, anxiety, memory problems, and lack of concentration severity significantly decreased after 8 weeks of treatment. Only urinary problems in two treatment groups did not show any significant difference. There was no significant difference in dryness and burning sensation before and after gabapentin (P> 0.05). However, these changes were significant in paroxetine group (P <0.05).

Conclusion: Both paroxetine and gabapentin were effective options in decreasing the severity of menopausal symptoms namely hot flashes, heart discomfort, sleep problems, and muscle/joint pains. In addition, the two medications had favorable results regarding psychological aspects of menopause.