The fight against menopausal hot flashes is gaining ground, as a new drug called fezolinetant has been authorized in the United States and the United Kingdom, and may soon arrive in Italy. This drug is considered to be an innovative product that can prevent hot flashes, especially at night, which often cause sleep disturbances for women over 50. Despite the potential benefits, experts highlight some limitations that need to be considered when prescribing the drug.
Fezolinetant is a non-hormonal drug that acts as a selective non-hormonal antagonist, targeting a brain protein called Neurokinin-3. This protein is involved in regulating body temperature in menopausal women, and the drug works by reducing its levels, thereby reducing the frequency and intensity of hot flashes and night sweats.
While the drug offers benefits for women experiencing menopausal symptoms, it is important to note that it may not be suitable for everyone. It is not recommended for women with current or previous cancer, severe hepatic impairment, or those over the age of 65, as it has not been extensively studied in these populations.
The price of the drug has not been set yet in the United Kingdom, and it is estimated to cost $550 for a 30-day treatment in the United States. The Italian Medicines Agency is set to authorize the drug in Italy, but there are still no indications on the price. There are also no recommendations on dosage for women over 65, as the clinical studies on women were limited to 12 weeks of administration. Therefore, the drug will be subject to additional monitoring once authorized.
For women who may not be suitable for fezolinetant, other alternatives such as hormone replacement therapy, bio-identical hormones, and natural substances like phytotherapeutics are available. These alternatives offer different options for women to manage their menopausal symptoms based on their individual needs and characteristics.