I was prescribed venlafaxine hel er tabs to treat long term hot flashes. I have been taking it about 3 yrs. These disturb me daily - day and night - and have been ongoing for 20 years (I am 68). I haven t had any success controlling them since stopping hrt many years ago. I have always had trouble staying asleep and this has gotten worse. I am not and have never been depressed, rather upbeat and active. I was told to take the RX before bed. Any suggestions?
Hi, Welcome to Chat Doctor forum.  The hot flashes might be due to the deficiency of the estrogen, H.R.T is discontinued due to some reason.  There might be some other reasons, for hot flashes, may be underlying feelings of deficiency of estrogen, deficiency of vitamins, some chronic infections.  I advise you to consult a physician for diagnosis and treatment.  Take more of green leafy vegetables, pulses,sprouts, and protein rich foods to have blood, general health and resistance against infections.  Wishing for a quick and complete recovery. Thank you.