Described as a “gamechanging” drug by The Guardian and others, Veoza (or Veozah in the USA) prevents hot flushes and could benefit hundreds of thousands of women. And it has now been approved for use in the UK.
Approval for Veoza, also known as fezolinetant, follows the US Food and Drug Administration’s decision to authorise it for use in America lastMay.
Hot flushes, or vasomotor symptoms, affect about 70% of women going through the menopause. They can suddenly feel unbearably and unpredictably hot, often impacting on their quality of life, exercise, sleep and work.
Despite the enormous numbers of women affected, for decades there have been few safe and effective treatment options. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is the most effective, but this is unsuitable for many, such as some women with a history of breast or ovarian cancer, blood clots or with untreated high blood pressure. Some women just prefer non-hormonal alternatives.
“VEOZA uses a novel mechanism of action to target the root cause of VMS due to menopause,” said Marci English, Vice President and Head of BioPharma Development, Astellas who manufacture the new treatment. “Approval of this new treatment for moderate to severe VMS due to menopause is a testament to Astellas’ commitment to delivering innovative therapies in areas of unmet need that have been underserved, including women’s health.”
Veoza will be available from January onwards in the UK through private prescriptions only.
The NHS will not offer the treatment until the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) completes a review of it.
Contact Clarendon Health to discuss your symptoms or for more information on Veoza. You can also read our more detailed information on it here: Veoza Menopause Treatment