Black Cohosh with Prozac

[KRUSTYMAN]

My wife started the menopause very early in life and because she didn't want to go on HRT the Doctor prescribed Prozac/Fluexetine to 'help'. Consequently, because the problem wasn't dealt with properly and a combination of personal problems - not least having to live with me and my problems - she is now terribly depressed. So much so that she is now signed off work and waiting to see a councellor. Anyway, to get to the point, her sister recommended taking Black Cohosh and I was wondering whether any of you lovely ladies has taken Black Cohosh and Prozac together without ill effect? Obviously, we are seeing her Doctor this week coming and will be able to ask her but I know how knowledgeable fellow ABers are and hope someone can help until then.TIA

[Ethel]

I can only assume the GP prescribed that powerful antidepressant to help with the hot flushes and night sweats of menopause, although I can't imagine why your wife was happy to take that drug and not HRT.

As long as your wife's blood pressure is okay, taking black cohash and prozac together should not be a problem.

[tswabey]

Hi, i am on Prozac for menopause and have just started taking Black Cohosh as well, ok so far.
I think your wife is very wise not to take HRT. My mum died of Breast
cancer and was convinces the HRT caused it as it was a hormone based cancer.There is significant proof of this also.
I dont know how long your wife has been taking Prozac but it does make you feel worse when first taking it. I was given a dose too high (40mg and went back to the doctor in a bit of a state as i thought i was going mad as i felt really depressed/panicky and shaky (even though i have suffered with depression for years, they made me REALLY depressed). The dose was too high. I lowered to 10mg and after 2-3 weeks felt so much better. It doesnt make the symptoms dissapear but helped immensely. I have also suffered with depression for years and this is the only anti-depressant that has made me feel near to 'normal'.
I hope your wife starts to feel better soon - it would be interesting to know how she gets on.
Tracey.