Astellas Pharma has announced that the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence has issued Final Draft Guidance recommending fezolinetant 45 mg once daily for treating moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause when hormone replacement therapy is unsuitable.
The decision means the treatment will be made available through the NHS, offering a new non‑hormonal option for people experiencing disruptive hot flushes and night‑sweats.
More than 2 million women in the UK are affected by moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms, which can significantly impair quality of life. Fezolinetant works by selectively blocking neurokinin B in the brain, a neurotransmitter involved in triggering hot flushes and night‑sweats.
Dr Timir Patel, Medical Director at Astellas UK, said: “Emerging real-world evidence on the use of fezolinetant shows how effectively managing hot flushes and night-sweats can positively affect sleep quality, work productivity, and overall daily functioning. With many women in the UK still under-served by available treatment options when HRT is deemed unsuitable, this recommendation provides another option for those suffering from moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause.”
Dr Vikram Talaulikar, Associate Specialist in Reproductive Medicine at University College London Hospitals, explained: “Despite progress, the sad reality is that many women continue to suffer in silence as not all current treatments meet their specific needs.
“NICE’s decision means that NHS doctors now have an alternative treatment that was specifically designed and studied to improve particular symptoms of menopause. It is excellent news for the furtherment of women’s health in the UK and provides women with a wider choice of options.”
Anita Powell, Founder of The Menopause Alliance, said: “In community settings, I meet women every week who are struggling with debilitating menopausal symptoms and limited treatment options. NICE’s guidance recognises this reality. The next step must be ensuring that local services are equipped to deliver timely, informed care so women do not continue to fall through the gaps.”
