New Menopause Medication Achieves Over 70% Reduction in Hot Flashes in International Study

A groundbreaking international clinical trial has demonstrated that the investigational drug elinzanetant significantly alleviates menopausal vasomotor symptoms, such as hot flashes and night sweats. The study involved more than 600 postmenopausal women aged 40 to 65 across 83 sites in North America and Europe, who received either 120 mg of elinzanetant or a placebo daily for one year.

Results revealed that women taking elinzanetant experienced a more than 73% decrease in both the frequency and severity of hot flashes and night sweats by the 12th week of treatment. Participants also reported secondary benefits, including improved sleep quality and overall enhancements in life quality, although these outcomes were not the primary focus of the trial. Importantly, the medication showed no harmful effects on liver health or bone density.

Elinzanetant is notable as the first dual receptor antagonist targeting neurokinin-1 and 3 pathways to reach Phase 3 trials. Its safety and efficacy over a 52-week period suggest potential for long-term management of menopausal symptoms, especially for women who cannot or prefer not to undergo hormone therapy. Hormone therapy, while effective, can cause side effects such as breast tenderness and headaches, and carries risks like stroke or certain cancers, which has limited options for some women.

The study authors emphasized that elinzanetant could serve as a promising nonhormonal alternative for women experiencing moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms, including those undergoing treatment for breast cancer. However, the drug still requires approval from regulatory agencies like the FDA before it becomes available for widespread use.

The findings, published in JAMA Internal Medicine, build on earlier trials and reinforce elinzanetant’s potential as a safe, effective treatment for menopausal hot flashes, with benefits sustained over a year.