Got Hot Flashes? There’s a New Pill for That

A new pill that combats the night sweats and hot flashes that often accompany menopause has been approved — and it’s hormone-free.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Lynkuet “to treat moderate-to-severe vasomotor symptoms due to menopause” on Oct. 24; Vasomotor is the medical term for what’s commonly called hot flashes or night sweats. 

The active ingredient in Lynkuet, elinzanetant, works on two receptors in the brain that regulate body temperature, and one that may help with sleep. (The existing nonhormal treatment for hot flashes, Veozah — the brand name for fezolinetant — only works on one receptor.) During clinical trials, the drug was found to have a profound impact on night sweats and hot flashes, Dr. JoAnn Pinkerton, a professor of obstetrics and gynecology at the University of Virginia Health System, told The New York Times. 

As Dr. Pinkerton explained, 70% of those on Lynkuet saw the frequency of their hot flashes cut in half after 12 weeks on the drug.

While hormone therapy is often the go-to treatment for menopause symptoms, it can “significantly” increase the risk of breast cancer recurrence in women with a history of the disease, the Breast Cancer Research Foundation says.

“It’s important that women know they have choices for treating moderate to severe hot flashes due to menopause, and today’s approval further expands a woman’s options for treating these symptoms,” Claire Gill, President and Founder of the National Menopause Foundation, said in a press release from Bayer, the manufacturer of the drug. 

Those with a history of liver problems are not advised to take Lynkuet, as it may increase liver enzymes. Bayer also advises that the drug may cause drowsiness and vertigo, and recommends that anyone taking the drug to avoid drinking grapefruit juice or eating grapefruit.

The drug is expected to be available as early as November, per The New York Times, which reported that a 30-day supply carries a pricetag of $625, but it could cost as little as $25, pending individual insurance coverage. Bayer is also offering women the option of connecting with a provider through the Lynkuet Access Savings & Support program (LASS), to help them receive a lower-cost Lynkuet prescription.

Story by People