For millions of women experiencing the disruptive symptoms of menopause, a recent treatment option is on the horizon. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has authorized fezolinetant, marketed as Veoza, for utilize on the National Health Service (NHS) in England, offering a non-hormonal approach to managing debilitating hot flushes and night sweats. This decision, announced on Wednesday, marks a significant step forward in addressing a long-underestimated health concern impacting a substantial portion of the female population.
Hot flushes, also known as vasomotor symptoms, affect approximately 70% of women navigating the menopausal transition, causing sudden feelings of intense heat that can disrupt daily life, sleep and overall well-being. Even as hormone replacement therapy (HRT) remains the most effective treatment, it isn’t suitable for everyone. This new option provides a crucial alternative for women who are unable or unwilling to use HRT due to medical contraindications, personal preference, or potential side effects.
How Veoza Works: A Non-Hormonal Approach
Veoza represents a novel approach to managing menopausal symptoms. Unlike HRT, which replaces declining estrogen levels, fezolinetant works by targeting the brain’s temperature regulation center. Specifically, it blocks a protein called neurokinin B, which plays a role in triggering hot flushes. According to research published in March 2023, a clinical trial showed that after 12 weeks of use, Veoza reduced the frequency of hot flushes by about 60% in women with moderate to severe symptoms, compared with a 45% reduction in those who received a placebo [My Menopause Centre]. The medication, manufactured by Astellas Pharma, is administered as a 45mg tablet taken once daily.
Who Will Benefit from Veoza?
It is estimated that around 500,000 women in England will be eligible for Veoza, offering relief to those for whom HRT is not a viable option. This includes women with a history of breast or ovarian cancer, blood clots, or untreated high blood pressure, as well as those who simply prefer a non-hormonal alternative. HRT will continue to be the first-line treatment for many, given its established efficacy, with studies showing it can reduce symptom frequency and intensity by up to 90% [My Menopause Centre]. Yet, the availability of fezolinetant addresses a critical unmet need for a significant segment of the population.
Helen Knight, director of medicines evaluation at NICE, emphasized the importance of this decision, stating, “We know that menopausal hot flushes and night sweats can have a profound impact on quality of life and significantly affect overall wellbeing. 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 added that the evidence demonstrates fezolinetant can meaningfully reduce symptoms and represents a cost-effective use of taxpayer funds.
Dr. Sue Mann, national clinical director in women’s health for NHS England, echoed this sentiment, noting that the symptoms of menopause can affect every aspect of a woman’s life. “Here’s very welcome news especially for women who are unable to or don’t wish to take hormone replacement therapy,” she said. “It’s another vital treatment option, which could facilitate hundreds of thousands of women experiencing menopause to better manage their symptoms and sense more in control of their health.”
What’s Next for Veoza and Menopause Care?
While the authorization from NICE is a major step, the process isn’t complete. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence is currently evaluating fezolinetant, with final draft guidance expected by March 11, 2026 [NICE]. This review will further assess the clinical and cost-effectiveness of the drug within its authorized use. The drug was approved in the UK in December 2023 [BBC News], but required NICE approval for NHS funding.
The introduction of Veoza signifies a growing recognition of the need for diverse treatment options for menopause. As research continues and awareness increases, it is hoped that more innovative solutions will emerge to support women through this significant life stage.
What are your thoughts on this new treatment option? Share your experiences and perspectives in the comments below.
Disclaimer: This article provides informational content about medical treatments and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment of any health condition.
