New Non-hormonal drug for menopause treatment

Novel Non-Hormonal Treatment to Help Menopausal Women Stay Cool and Comfortable

Menopause is a natural stage that every woman experiences, typically occurring between the ages of 45 and 55 in Hong Kong. One of the most common and disruptive symptoms during this transition is vasomotor symptoms (VMS) - hot flashes and night sweats – which can significantly daily life and mental well-being. Rather than self-medicating, it is advisable to seek medical consultation for effective relief.

According to Dr. Tam Ching Ting, a private gynaecologist, “Many women simply endure these symptoms, same way as the pressure they are bearing in daily life, which further worsening their quality of life. More importantly, menopausal women should undergo regular health check-ups to rule out other conditions commonly associated with menopause, such as cardiovascular or gynaecological diseases, before attributing all symptoms solely to menopause."

The Impact of Vasomotor Symptoms

Approximately 60%–80% of women experience VMS of varying severity after entering menopause. These symptoms are categorized as mild, moderate, or severe:

Severe cases may involve more than eight episodes daily, significantly affecting sleep, concentration, energy levels, mood, sexual health, and social engagement.

A New Class of Non-Hormonal NK3 Receptor Antagonists to Tackle Hot Flashes and Night Sweats

Although hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is often recommended as a first-line treatment for VMS, many women are hesitant to use it due to potential risks, including an increased likelihood of breast cancer. In addition, HRT may not be suitable for everyone—particularly women with a history of certain cancers, blood clots, or established heart disease.

Recently, a scientific breakthrough has been made in managing menopausal VMS. A new class of non-hormonal treatment, known as the NK3 receptor antagonist, works by targeting the area of the brain that regulates body temperature. This once daily oral drug addresses the root cause of hot flashes and night sweats. It is fast-acting, clinically effective, and shown to reduce both the frequency and severity of VMS.

Dr. Tam emphasizes: "The real breakthrough is that women can finally achieve lasting comfort and maintain a consistent body temperature throughout the day. This means being able to sleep through the night without drenching night sweats, participate in important meetings without sudden flushing, and engage in social activities without anxiety about unexpected hot flashes. It's about giving women back their confidence and comfort in their own skin."

Like HRT, NK3 receptor antagonists are prescription-only medications. Women are encouraged to consult their doctors to determine whether this treatment is suitable for them.

The Importance of Health Management

Health management is especially important for women approaching or experiencing menopause. Regular health screenings, balanced nutrition, and exercise remain crucial for supporting overall health during this stage of life. "Every woman deserves to navigate menopause with dignity and comfort.” Dr. Tam concluded.