NHS to Offer New Non-HRT Drug for Menopause Hot Flushes to 500,000 Women in England

More than half a million women in England will soon have access to a modern treatment option for debilitating hot flushes and night sweats, offering relief for those for whom hormone replacement therapy (HRT) isn’t suitable. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has authorised Veoza, also known as fezolinetant, for use on the NHS, marking a significant step forward in managing the menopause.

Understanding Vasomotor Symptoms

Around 70% of women experience vasomotor symptoms – the medical term for hot flushes and night sweats – during the menopause transition. These symptoms can range from mild discomfort to overwhelming heat sensations that disrupt daily life, impacting sleep, exercise, work, and overall wellbeing. While HRT remains the most effective treatment, it isn’t an option for everyone. Women with a history of breast or ovarian cancer, blood clots, or untreated high blood pressure, as well as those who experience side effects or simply prefer a non-hormonal approach, have historically faced limited choices. The Guardian reports that Veoza addresses this urgent need.

How Veoza Works

Veoza, manufactured by Astellas Pharma, represents a new class of treatment. Unlike HRT, which replaces declining hormones, fezolinetant works by blocking nerve pathways in the brain that trigger hot flushes and night sweats. The medication is administered as a single 45mg tablet taken daily. The Menopause Charity describes Veoza as a non-hormonal treatment specifically designed for these symptoms.

A Cost-Effective Solution

NICE’s decision to approve Veoza wasn’t solely based on its efficacy. The institute also determined that the treatment is cost-effective for the NHS, representing fine value for taxpayers. Helen Knight, director of medicines evaluation at NICE, emphasized the profound impact of menopausal symptoms on quality of life, stating that options have historically been limited for those unable to capture HRT. “The evidence shows fezolinetant can meaningfully reduce symptoms,” she said.

HRT Remains First-Line, But Options Expand

It’s important to note that HRT will remain the first-line treatment for moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms, given its established benefits and the increasing availability of different formulations. However, the introduction of Veoza provides a crucial alternative for the estimated 500,000 women in England who cannot or choose not to use HRT. Dr. Sue Mann, national clinical director in women’s health for NHS England, welcomed the news, highlighting the widespread impact of menopause symptoms and the importance of offering diverse treatment options.

Beyond Hot Flushes: The Broader Menopause Landscape

The approval of Veoza arrives amidst growing awareness of the challenges women face during menopause. For decades, the experience was often minimized or dismissed, leaving many women to suffer in silence. Increased advocacy and research are now driving a shift towards better understanding and management of menopausal symptoms. This includes not only vasomotor symptoms but also other common issues like sleep disturbances, mood changes, and cognitive difficulties.

What This Means for Patients

For women who have struggled to identify relief from hot flushes and night sweats without HRT, Veoza offers a new avenue for managing their symptoms. It’s crucial to discuss treatment options with a qualified healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate course of action based on individual medical history and preferences. The NHS will provide further guidance on access to Veoza in the coming weeks. Britbrief confirms the drug will be available when HRT is not suitable.

Looking Ahead: Ongoing Research and Guidance Updates

The NICE decision is likely to prompt further research into the long-term effects of fezolinetant and its potential benefits for different subgroups of women. Ongoing surveillance will also be essential to monitor the drug’s effectiveness and identify any potential side effects. As new evidence emerges, NICE will review and update its guidance accordingly, ensuring that women receive the most current and effective care. The NHS will also be monitoring the uptake of Veoza and assessing its impact on women’s health outcomes.