Disclaimer: Information is for general knowledge, should not be taken as medical advice, and should be consulted with a healthcare provider.
The Timeline for Veozah's Effectiveness
While some patients may notice a decrease in symptoms as early as one week after starting treatment, the full therapeutic effect of Veozah is a gradual process. Based on clinical trials, here is a general timeline of what to expect:
- Initial effects (1 to 4 weeks): Within the first month of taking Veozah, patients in clinical studies reported a reduction in both the frequency and severity of hot flashes. At the four-week mark, people taking Veozah experienced over 50% fewer hot flashes compared to a placebo group.
- Full effect (4 to 12 weeks): The most significant and sustained improvement in menopausal hot flashes is typically observed after 4 to 12 weeks of consistent use. Studies showed that at 12 weeks, some patients achieved about a 65% reduction in hot flashes.
- Long-term benefit: Continued symptom relief was maintained for those who remained on treatment throughout longer clinical studies, lasting up to 52 weeks (one year).
How Veozah Works
Veozah (fezolinetant) is a non-hormonal medication that targets the brain's thermoregulation center. It works by blocking the neurokinin-3 (NK3) receptor, which is involved in triggering hot flashes and night sweats. During menopause, decreased estrogen leads to increased neurokinin B (NKB), disrupting temperature regulation and causing vasomotor symptoms (VMS). Veozah modulates this activity, reducing VMS. This offers a targeted option for women who prefer not to use hormone-based treatments.
Veozah Compared to Other Treatments
Veozah is not the only option for managing menopausal hot flashes. Other common treatments include hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and certain antidepressants (e.g., SSRIs). Below is a comparison of these different approaches.
| Feature | Veozah (fezolinetant) | Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) | Antidepressants (SSRIs) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanism of Action | Blocks the neurokinin 3 (NK3) receptor in the brain to regulate temperature. | Replenishes estrogen and sometimes progesterone levels. | Modulates serotonin levels in the brain. |
| Effectiveness Timeline | Initial relief in weeks, full effect in 4-12 weeks. | Often provides rapid and comprehensive symptom relief. | Can take several weeks to take effect. |
| Type of Treatment | Non-hormonal. | Hormonal. | Non-hormonal. |
| Associated Risks | Rare but serious liver injury; requires liver monitoring. | Potential risks of blood clots, breast cancer (in some cases). | Potential for side effects like nausea, sedation. |
| Eligibility | For moderate to severe VMS; liver and kidney function must be monitored. | Eligibility determined by health history, including risks of certain cancers. | Alternative for those unable to take HRT. |
| Symptom Coverage | Specifically targets hot flashes and night sweats. | Addresses a broader range of symptoms, including vaginal atrophy. | Primarily targets hot flashes; may not address other menopause symptoms. |
Important Safety Information and Monitoring
Due to a rare but serious risk of liver injury, Veozah carries a Boxed Warning from the FDA. Liver function tests are required before and during treatment. Monitoring includes a baseline test, monthly tests for the first three months, and follow-up tests at months 6 and 9. Signs of liver problems, such as unusual fatigue or jaundice, require immediate discontinuation and contacting a healthcare provider. For more details, consult the FDA Drug Safety Communication regarding Veozah and liver injury(https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/fda-adds-warning-about-rare-occurrence-serious-liver-injury-use-veozah-fezolinetant-hot-flashes-due).
Conclusion
Veozah offers a non-hormonal option for moderate to severe menopausal hot flashes. While initial symptom relief may appear within weeks, the full benefits are typically seen within 4 to 12 weeks. Its mechanism of action in the brain's temperature control differs from hormonal therapies. However, due to the risk of liver injury, regular monitoring is essential. Close collaboration with a healthcare provider is crucial for safe and effective use.
