Menopause is a stage of life experienced by most women and menstruating individuals between the ages of 45-55 and can last an average of about 14 years. It is typically classified after 12 months have passed since an individual’s last period. During menopause, the ovaries gradually produce less estrogen and progesterone, leading to hormonal fluctuations and various symptoms. Estrogen and progesterone play crucial roles in regulating the menstrual cycle and maintaining reproductive health.
Hot flashes are a common symptom of menopause, both natural and medically induced, as such in breast cancer treatment. These sudden waves of heat can cause sweating, flushing, and a rapid heartbeat. During menopause, hormonal changes disrupt the body's temperature regulation, leading to hot flashes. Breast cancer treatments like hormone therapy or chemotherapy can also induce hot flashes as a side effect.
Current treatments for hot flashes, both menopausal and pharmaceutically induced, include various non-hormonal prescription drugs like antidepressants, gabapentin, clonidine, or hormone replacement therapy, like estrogen. Other methods used by women are herbal remedies, acupuncture, and various homeopathic remedies.
As of May 12, 2023, the FDA has approved a new drug called Veozah (fezolinetant), a new non-hormonal treatment for hot flashes during menopause. Its target is the neural activity that causes hot flashes during menopause. Specifically, the drug binds and blocks NK3 receptor activity, which plays a major role in the regulation of body temperature by the brain. Read more about Veozah here.
The non-hormonal nature of Veozah is significant - hormonal therapies, such as estrogen and progesterone, have been commonly used to alleviate menopausal symptoms. However, some people may have contraindications or concerns about using hormonal treatments due to factors like a history of breast cancer, cardiovascular issues, or personal preferences. Having a non-hormonal alternative like Veozah provides more options to manage symptoms safely and comfortably.
The neural pathway target of hot flashes is novel science - this pathway has never been targeted when treating hot flashes. Astellas Pharma, who owns Veozah, has an impactful drug that can change millions of lives around the world. The future of possibilities are vast, and it will be highly anticipated to see how this changes lives of millions of people internationally.
References
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hot-flashes/symptoms-causes/syc-20352790
Kligman L, Younus J. Management of hot flashes in women with breast cancer. Curr Oncol. 2010;17(1):81-86. doi:10.3747/co.v17i1.473
https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2023/216578s000lbl.pdf
