How Veozah works to alleviate menopause symptoms
Veozah (fezolinetant) is a prescription medication used to treat moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms (VMS), such as hot flashes and night sweats, caused by menopause. Unlike traditional hormone replacement therapy, Veozah is a non-hormonal treatment that works differently to target the root cause of VMS.
To understand why it takes some time to work, it's helpful to know its mechanism of action. During menopause, decreasing estrogen levels can disrupt the brain's temperature control center, located in the hypothalamus. A specific brain chemical called neurokinin B (NKB) becomes overactive as a result. Veozah works by blocking NKB from binding to its receptors in this area, which helps to normalize the body's temperature regulation and reduce the frequency and severity of hot flashes. This process of restoring the balance takes time, which is why the effects build gradually.
The Veozah efficacy timeline
Most people will experience gradual, cumulative benefits over the first few months of treatment. The timeline for noticeable improvement typically follows this pattern:
- Initial effects (Weeks 1-4): Some women may notice an improvement in their symptoms within the first one to two weeks of starting Veozah. Clinical trial data shows a measurable decrease in hot flash frequency and severity within the first four weeks.
- Significant reduction (Week 4): By the fourth week, most patients report a significant reduction in the frequency and severity of hot flashes. In clinical trials, participants using Veozah saw over a 50% reduction in hot flash frequency compared to a smaller reduction in the placebo group. Improvements in sleep quality may also start to become apparent around this time.
- Full effect (Weeks 12-16): The full, optimal effects of Veozah are typically observed around 12 weeks of continuous use, and for some, it can take up to 16 weeks. By the three-month mark in trials, Veozah provided about a 65% reduction in hot flashes. Patients typically find that the relief continues as long as they continue treatment.
Comparison of Veozah vs. Placebo at 4 and 12 Weeks
Clinical trials (SKYLIGHT 1 and SKYLIGHT 2) provide a clear picture of how Veozah’s effectiveness compares to a placebo over time.
| Feature | Veozah (45 mg) | Placebo (no medication) |
|---|---|---|
| Reduction in hot flash frequency (Week 4) | Over 50% | ~30% (placebo effect) |
| Reduction in hot flash frequency (Week 12) | ~65% | ~45% |
| Improvement in sleep | Noted by Week 4 and Week 12 | Noted by Week 4 and Week 12, but lower than Veozah group |
| Sustained effect | Continues throughout the study (up to 52 weeks) | Effect does not significantly improve beyond initial placebo effect |
Factors influencing how quickly Veozah works
Individual response to medication is not uniform. Several factors can influence how quickly a person experiences the full benefits of Veozah, including:
- Initial symptom severity: Individuals with more frequent and severe hot flashes may take slightly longer to reach their optimal relief compared to those with milder symptoms.
- Consistency of use: Taking Veozah once daily at the same time is recommended for consistent medication levels in the body. Missing doses can impact the drug's effectiveness and delay the onset of full relief.
- Individual metabolism: A person's unique metabolic rate can affect how their body processes and utilizes the medication. Veozah reaches steady-state concentrations within two doses, but the overall symptom improvement is a more gradual process.
Important considerations and monitoring
While waiting for Veozah to take its full effect, it's important to monitor symptoms and follow up with a healthcare provider. If significant improvement is not seen by 12 weeks, the provider may suggest alternative options. For those experiencing insomnia, which can also be a menopause symptom, taking the dose earlier in the day may help, though it can take up to a month for sleep to improve with the medication's effects.
Another crucial aspect of Veozah treatment is liver function monitoring. It is recommended to have blood tests to check liver health before starting and at specific intervals during treatment (3, 6, and 9 months), as liver problems can occur in rare cases. For more detailed prescribing information and liver monitoring guidelines, refer to the official FDA resources.
Conclusion
For those seeking relief from moderate to severe hot flashes and night sweats, understanding the Veozah efficacy timeline provides a clear picture of what to expect. While some relief may begin within the first couple of weeks, the most significant improvements build over time, with full effects typically apparent after three months of consistent daily use. Patience and adherence to the prescribed regimen are key to achieving optimal results. If concerns arise or improvement is not as expected, communicating with a healthcare provider is the best next step to ensure the treatment plan is effective for individual needs.
Learn more about Veozah and other treatments for menopause from the FDA.
