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A drug for treating hot flushes and night sweats during the menopause is now available on the NHS in England when HRT (hormone replacement therapy) isn’t suitable
The non-hormonal treatment, called Veoza, is a daily pill which blocks nerve pathways in the brain that trigger the symptoms
Menopausal hot flushes and night sweats can have a major impact on the quality of life of women in their 40s and 50s and affect their wellbeing, healthcare experts say
Around 500,000 women could benefit from the drug, particularly those who cannot use HRT because of underlying health conditions, whose options up until now have been limited
The menopause – and the years leading up to it – can affect women’s daily life in many different ways
Falling levels of oestrogen in the body have a knock-on effect on the brain, on periods, skin, muscles and emotions
Hot flushes and night sweats are some of the most common symptoms experienced. They can disturb sleep and concentration, while also affecting relationships and the ability to work
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is available to treat symptoms in the form of tablets, patches and gels – but there have been few non-hormonal options available to date
Veoza, also known as fezolinetant, is an important additional option, says Helen Knight, director of medicines evaluation at NICE – the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence – which provides guidance on how to improve healthcare
“For those who are unable to take HRT for varying reasons, options have historically been limited, and we have heard clearly from patients how difficult that can be,” she said
“The evidence shows fezolinetant can meaningfully reduce symptoms, and was found to be cost effective, offering value for the taxpayer
“This decision will give much-needed relief to those for whom HRT is unsuitable.”
The drug can be used in cases of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism, and in some cases of diabetes or heart disease when HRT isn’t suitable
But Veoza is not going to be an option for everyone
NICE said the drug was not recommended for women with breast cancer, other oestrogen-dependent cancers or liver disease because these groups were not included in clinical trials of the drug. As a result, there is no data available on the risks or benefits to these women
Women who have had breast cancer in the past and have finished their treatment may be able to take it, but it would depend on their individual situation
The daily pill Veoza was approved in 2023 – but has only now been recommended for treating moderate to severe symptoms of menopausal hot flushes and night sweats on the NHS, by NICE
The decision applies in England. Wales and Northern Ireland often follow the same NICE guidance, while Scotland has its own body, called the SMC, that makes decisions on new drugs and has not recommended its use on the NHS
The SMC has received a resubmission from the company that makes Veoza and this is currently being assessed, with advice is expected to be published in the summer
HRT is still the first-line treatment option, NICE says, because of its clear benefits and the range of different types available, and it’s thought most women will continue to take HRT
Dr Sue Mann, national clinical director in women’s health for NHS England, said symptoms of menopause including hot flushes and night sweats “can affect every part of a women’s life”
She said the news was “very welcome”, especially for women who are unable to take HRT or don’t want to take it
Dr Mann said the drug could help hundreds of thousands of women experiencing menopause to manage their symptoms better and feel more in control of their health
Women’s health
Health
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
Menopause
