Veozah (Fezolinetant): A Promising Non‐Hormonal Treatment for Vasomotor Symptoms in Menopause Original paper
Researched by:
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Divine Aleru
ID
Divine Aleru
Read MoreI am a biochemist with a deep curiosity for the human microbiome and how it shapes human health, and I enjoy making microbiome science more accessible through research and writing. With 2 years experience in microbiome research, I have curated microbiome studies, analyzed microbial signatures, and now focus on interventions as a Microbiome Signatures and Interventions Research Coordinator.
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Women’s Health
Women’s Health
Women’s health, a vital aspect of medical science, encompasses various conditions unique to women’s physiological makeup. Historically, women were often excluded from clinical research, leading to a gap in understanding the intricacies of women’s health needs. However, recent advancements have highlighted the significant role that the microbiome plays in these conditions, offering new insights and potential therapies. MicrobiomeSignatures.com is at the forefront of exploring the microbiome signature of each of these conditions to unravel the etiology of these diseases and develop targeted microbiome therapies.
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Menopause
Menopause
Menopause impacts many aspects of health, including the gut microbiome, weight management, and hormone balance. Diet, probiotics, intermittent fasting, and HRT offer effective management strategies.
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Divine Aleru
Read More
Researched by:
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Divine Aleru
ID
Divine Aleru
Read More
Microbiome Signatures identifies and validates condition-specific microbiome shifts and interventions to accelerate clinical translation. Our multidisciplinary team supports clinicians, researchers, and innovators in turning microbiome science into actionable medicine.
Divine Aleru
What was studied?
The article explores the efficacy of Veozah (fezolinetant), a neurokinin 3 (NK3) receptor antagonist, as a non-hormonal treatment for vasomotor symptoms (VMS) associated with menopause. The review examines clinical trial data from the SKYLIGHT 1, SKYLIGHT 2, and SKYLIGHT 4 trials, which evaluated fezolinetant’s ability to reduce the frequency and severity of hot flashes and night sweats in menopausal women. The article emphasizes the drug’s innovative mechanism of action, as it modulates thermoregulation via the brain’s neuropeptide signaling, providing an alternative to traditional estrogen therapies.
Who was studied?
The studies reviewed involved postmenopausal women experiencing moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms. These women were aged 40 to 64 years and had been diagnosed with menopause. They participated in phase 3 clinical trials (SKYLIGHT 1, SKYLIGHT 2, and SKYLIGHT 4) that tested the effects of fezolinetant. The trials also included individuals with varying baseline characteristics, such as ethnicity and comorbidities, to ensure a broad understanding of the drug’s effectiveness and safety across diverse populations.
Most important findings
Fezolinetant (Veozah) was found to be highly effective in reducing the frequency and severity of hot flashes in menopausal women. In the SKYLIGHT trials, it demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in hot flash frequency and severity compared to placebo, with no significant adverse effects. Fezolinetant works by targeting the neurokinin 3 receptor, which is involved in thermoregulation, and does not rely on estrogen. This makes it a promising non-hormonal alternative to traditional hormone replacement therapy (HRT). The most common side effects were mild gastrointestinal symptoms, such as abdominal pain and diarrhea. In the long-term SKYLIGHT 4 trial, fezolinetant showed continued efficacy and safety for up to 12 months, with a low incidence of serious adverse events. Unlike estrogen therapies, it does not affect steroid hormone levels, which makes it a safer option for women with contraindications to hormone-based treatments.
Key implications
Fezolinetant represents a breakthrough in menopause management, particularly for women who cannot or prefer not to use hormone-based therapies. It provides an effective, non-hormonal option for reducing VMS, with minimal side effects. This drug offers an important alternative for women with contraindications to estrogen therapy, such as those with a history of breast cancer or those who are concerned about estrogen’s associated risks. The ease of oral administration makes it accessible and convenient, expanding treatment options for women worldwide. Further studies, especially long-term trials, are needed to confirm its broader safety profile and long-term benefits. Clinicians should consider this option for women experiencing moderate to severe hot flashes who seek non-hormonal therapies.
Menopause
Menopause impacts many aspects of health, including the gut microbiome, weight management, and hormone balance. Diet, probiotics, intermittent fasting, and HRT offer effective management strategies.
Menopausal Hot Flashes
Menopausal hot flashes are one of the most common and disruptive symptoms that women experience during the transition to menopause. Characterized by sudden sensations of heat, sweating, and flushing, hot flashes can significantly affect a woman’s quality of life, causing sleep disturbances, mood swings, and even long-term health consequences. Understanding the complex mechanisms behind hot flashes, as well as the role of microbiome-targeted therapies, offers new avenues for improving menopausal health.
Estrogen
Estrogen is a steroid hormone primarily found in women, crucial for reproductive health, secondary sexual characteristics, and various physiological processes. It regulates menstrual cycles, supports pregnancy, and influences bone density and cardiovascular health. Dysregulation of estrogen levels can lead to various disorders and health complications.
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is one of the most effective treatments for women experiencing the symptoms of menopause, particularly vasomotor symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats. But its benefits go beyond just symptom management. HRT can also play a key role in improving vaginal health by alleviating dryness and discomfort, which are common complaints among women in menopause. Additionally, it helps prevent bone loss, significantly reducing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures, which are more common after menopause. Despite its many benefits, HRT is not one-size-fits-all; it’s essential to tailor treatment based on individual health profiles, taking into account the risks like breast cancer, blood clots, and heart disease that come with prolonged use.
Breast Cancer
Traditionally linked to genetic predispositions and environmental exposures, emerging evidence highlights the microbiome as a critical and underappreciated factor influencing breast cancer progression, immune response, and treatment outcomes.