new FDA-Approved Drugs and Established Therapies Offer Relief for Hot Flashes
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A growing arsenal of pharmaceutical and lifestyle interventions is providing women with more options than ever to manage the disruptive symptoms of menopause, including hot flashes. While many remedies exist, experts emphasize the importance of discussing potential benefits and risks with a healthcare professional. Several medications are used “off-label,” meaning thay’ve been approved for other conditions but shown promise in alleviating hot flashes.
The experience of menopause, and the accompanying vasomotor symptoms (VMS) like hot flashes and night sweats, is unique to each woman. Understanding the available treatment landscape is crucial for informed decision-making.
Hormone Therapy: A First-Line Defense
Hormone therapy (HT), also known as hormone replacement therapy or menopausal hormone therapy, remains a cornerstone treatment for hot flashes. Administered through pills, patches, sprays, gels, or a vaginal ring, HT aims to replenish declining estrogen levels. according to research, hormone therapy can lead to a 75 percent reduction in VMS.
HT involves systemic hormones – estrogens similar to those naturally produced by the body, and progestogens like progesterone. Beyond alleviating hot flashes and vaginal dryness, systemic hormones of
Other Pharmaceutical Options
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), commonly used to treat depression, can reduce hot flashes by 70 to 86 percent. Though,doctors may hesitate to prescribe it to individuals over 65 due to a potential risk of cognitive impairment.
gabapentin (Neurontin, Gralise), an anti-seizure medication, provides moderate relief, though side effects like weight gain and fatigue are common. Doctors may recommend a low dose or evening administration to mitigate these effects. Similarly, pregabalin (Lyrica), another anti-seizure medication, can be effective, but potential side effects like drowsiness and dizziness require careful consideration.
New Developments in Neurokinin Antagonists
Recent years have seen the approval of a new class of drugs targeting the brain’s signaling pathways involved in hot flashes. In May 2023, the FDA approved fezolinetant (Veozah), a nonhormonal oral medication for moderate to severe VMS. Studies indicate a ample reduction in both the frequency and severity of hot flashes, alongside improvements in quality of life.
However, a warning was issued on September 12, 2024, regarding a rare but serious risk of liver injury associated with fezolinetant. Women experiencing symptoms like fatigue, jaundice, nausea, or vomiting while taking the drug should discontinue use immediately.
More recently, in October 2025, the FDA approved elinzanetant (Lynkuet), another neurokinin antagonist, also designed to manage brain chemical signaling and prevent hot flashes. This medication is reported to have minimal side effects.
Complementary and Alternative Approaches
while numerous natural products and dietary supplements claim to alleviate hot flashes, the evidence supporting their effectiveness remains mixed, and long-term safety is often unknown. More research is needed in this area.
Psychological treatments, dietary changes, and exercise are generally considered safer alternatives. Studies have shown that acupuncture, yoga, and health and wellness education can reduce hot flash frequency.Lifestyle modifications, such as maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding triggers like caffeine and alcohol, can also be beneficial.
Stellate ganglion blockade, an injection into nerves in the neck, is another potential option, though it’s more commonly used for pain management. Some data suggests a low-fat, vegan diet with at least cup of soybeans daily may help, but further research is necessary.
Managing a Hot Flash in the Moment
When a hot flash strikes, practical strategies can provide immediate relief. Experts recommend wearing layers to allow for easy removal of clothing. Running cold water on wrists or using a hand-held fan can also help cool down.
Ultimately, navigating menopause and managing hot flashes requires a personalized approach, guided by open interaction with a healthcare provider and a willingness to explore the range of available options.
