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 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 that makes decisions on new drugs.
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 it.
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.
Veoza is not suitable for everyone, however.
NICE said the drug was not recommended for women with breast cancer, other oestrogen-dependent cancers or liver disease.
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.
