To treat menopausal symptoms in a woman with a history of hormone-sensitive breast cancer, the nurse practitioner should consider what type of medication?

• A. Androgen therapy
• B. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogs
• C. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors
• D. Progesterone-only therapy

Answer: (C)

In women with a history of hormone-sensitive breast cancer, the treatment of menopausal symptoms must be approached with caution due to the potential risks associated with hormone replacement therapy, which could stimulate cancer growth. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) have been shown to provide relief from menopausal symptoms, particularly hot flashes, without the hormonal risks associated with other treatments.

SSRIs are often utilized in this context because they can help manage vasomotor symptoms effectively while not interacting with estrogen pathways, making them safer for women with a history of hormone-sensitive cancers. Furthermore, SSRIs may also help alleviate mood symptoms that can accompany menopause, providing a dual benefit.

In contrast, the other options involve either hormone therapies or treatments that could have implications for hormone-sensitive conditions. Therefore, the use of SSRIs stands out as the most appropriate choice for treating menopausal symptoms in this specific patient population, as they address the symptoms effectively while prioritizing the patient's history of breast cancer.