Hope for menopause hot flashes discussed by Shayna Mancuso, DO

Shayna Mancuso, DO

In a recent interview with Contemporary OB/GYN, Shayna Mancuso, DO, FACOG, from Astellas Pharma, outlined current and emerging treatment options for managing menopause symptoms, particularly vasomotor symptoms (VMS), also known as hot flashes and night sweats.

She emphasized that managing menopause is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, treatment must be individualized, taking into account each woman’s personal medical and family history, as well as her treatment preferences.

One of the most effective and widely used treatment options for menopause-related symptoms is hormone therapy. However, hormone therapy isn’t suitable for every patient. Some women may have medical contraindications or may simply choose not to pursue it. For these women, non-hormonal alternatives are available.

Mancuso highlighted fezolinetant (VEOZAH; Astellas Pharma) as a promising, first-of-its-kind, non-hormonal treatment specifically approved by the FDA for moderate to severe VMS due to menopause. Unlike traditional hormone therapy, fezolinetant works by targeting the neurokinin B (NKb) pathway. It blocks the binding of the NKb neuropeptide, which is known to trigger VMS. This mechanism allows fezolinetant to reduce the frequency and severity of moderate to severe hot flashes during both day and night.

Mancuso noted that for some women, fezolinetant can start working in as early as one week, which was seen in clinical studies at 4 and 12 weeks, however, individual results may vary. She also cautioned that fezolinetant may cause serious side effects, including liver-related issues, and therefore requires lab testing before and during use. Patients experiencing symptoms should discontinue use and consult with their physicians. Further safety details, including a Boxed warning and full prescribing information, are available at the drug’s official website, veozah.com.

In closing, Mancuso underscored the broader mission of Astellas, the pharmaceutical company behind fezolinetant. She shared that Astellas is committed to advancing women’s health, particularly during midlife, a demographic that has historically been underserved. The company actively partners with menopause experts and advocacy groups to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and develop targeted, research-backed solutions to support women navigating menopause globally.

Reference

New research reveals impact of menopause stigma. Astellas. March 07, 2025. Accessed April 04, 2025. https://www.astellas.com/en/stories/international-womans-day-2025