Rossella Nappi, MD, discusses benefits of fezolinetant against vasomotor symptoms

In a recent interview with Contemporary OB/GYN, Rossella Nappi, MD, PhD, a professor and the chief of the reproductive medicine gynecological endocrinology and menopause unit at San Matteo Hospital in Pavia, Italy, as well as the president of the International Menopause Society, discussed the effects of fezolinetant, a non-hormonal medication, on vasomotor symptoms in menopausal and postmenopausal women.

Nappi explained the significant impact of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms, such as hot flashes, on women's quality of life. These symptoms affect approximately 80% of women at midlife, with 3 in 4 experiencing moderate to severe symptoms. This can severely disrupt daily life by impacting sleep, mood, cognition, and overall wellbeing.

Fezolinetant, taken orally at a 45 mg dose once per day, has shown promise in reducing both the frequency and severity of hot flashes. Notably, patients begin experiencing relief within a week, which significantly enhances their quality of life. Nappi highlighted recent data presented at the 19th World Congress on Menopause, which demonstrated the drug's positive impact on sleep quality and work productivity. Using validated instruments to measure sleep quality, the study found improvements in patient-reported outcomes.

The discussion emphasized the clinical significance of fezolinetant as a non-hormonal treatment option. This is particularly important for women who cannot or prefer not to take hormone replacement therapy. Nappi noted that the availability of fezolinetant allows for a more personalized approach to managing menopause, offering effective symptom relief without hormones. This development marks a new narrative in menopause treatment, broadening the options for clinicians to provide individualized care.