There is encouraging news for women experiencing hot flushes after cancer treatment. A new medication, Fezolinetant (also known as Veoza), has recently been approved for use on the NHS by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).
This offers an important new option to consider, particularly for women who are unable to take hormone replacement therapy (HRT), which can include many people treated for womb cancer.
Hot flushes and night sweats (also known as vasomotor symptoms) are common following menopause or cancer treatment. For some women, these symptoms are mild, but for others they can significantly affect sleep, concentration, daily activities, and overall quality of life. HRT is often the most effective treatment option but may not be suitable for all following a diagnosis of cancer. Until now, treatment choices have been limited for those who cannot take HRT.
Fezolinetant is different from HRT because it does not contain hormones. Instead, it works by acting on the part of the brain that controls body temperature. By blocking specific signals involved in triggering hot flushes, it can help reduce both their frequency and severity. The medication is taken as a once-daily tablet, making it a convenient option for many women.
This development is particularly relevant for women who have had womb cancer, as HRT is often not recommended depending on individual circumstances. Having a non-hormonal alternative can make a meaningful difference, offering another way to manage symptoms safely and improve day-to-day wellbeing.
However, it is important to understand who this treatment is suitable for. While HRT is often not recommended for people who have had breast cancer or other oestrogen-dependent cancers, Fezolinetant is also not routinely recommended for this group. This is because there is currently no clinical trial evidence to confirm its safety or effectiveness in people with these types of cancer.
For people who have had breast cancer or another oestrogen-dependent cancer and have completed treatment, an individual risk assessment may be considered by your oncology specialist. This will consider your personal medical history and circumstances. Although there is a clear need for more treatment options for people in this group, Fezolinetant is not routinely recommended by NICE for them and would therefore need to be considered on an individual basis.
Doctors will consider your overall health and medical history before prescribing this medication. In some cases, blood tests may be needed to check liver function before and during treatment. HRT will still be recommended as the first-line treatment for many women, but this new option provides an alternative for those who cannot or prefer not to take hormones.
If you are struggling with hot flushes or symptoms of menopause, it is important to know that support is available. Speaking to your GP, clinical team, or a menopause specialist can help you explore the options that are right for you, including whether this new treatment may be appropriate.
The key message is that if HRT is not suitable for you, you are not without options. Treatments like Fezolinetant are helping to expand the choices available for managing moderate to severe menopausal symptoms, so that women can feel more comfortable and in control of their health.
Read the full announcement from NICE
