Menopause is finally receiving more attention in mainstream medicine, and with that attention comes new pharmaceutical options for symptom relief. One of the newest medications making headlines is Veozah (fezolinetant), a non-hormonal drug approved to treat vasomotor symptoms, otherwise known as hot flashes and night sweats.
But an important question remains:
Does Veozah actually address the underlying hormonal changes of menopause or is it simply managing symptoms?
At Inland Naturopathic Wellness Center, we believe women deserve to understand the root causes of their symptoms, not just temporary fixes. Let’s take a closer look at what Veozah does, how it works, and why it may not be the comprehensive solution women are looking for.
What Is Veozah?
Veozah (fezolinetant) is a non-hormonal prescription medication designed specifically to reduce vasomotor symptoms of menopause, including hot flashes, night sweats, and sudden temperature dysregulation.
Unlike hormone replacement therapy, Veozah does not contain estrogen or progesterone.
Instead, it works by targeting a specific neurological pathway involved in temperature regulation in the brain.
How Veozah Works
Veozah acts on a group of neurons in the hypothalamus, the region of the brain responsible for regulating body temperature.
During menopause, declining estrogen levels disrupt signals in this thermoregulatory center. This disruption can trigger sudden heat sensations that cause hot flashes.
Veozah blocks neurokinin-3 (NK3) receptors, which are involved in this signaling pathway. By modulating these neurons, the medication helps stabilize the body’s temperature regulation.
In simple terms menopause alters temperature signaling in the brain. Veozah helps blunt the neurons that trigger hot flashes.
This mechanism can reduce the frequency and intensity of vasomotor symptoms.
But this leads to a larger question.
Does Veozah Treat the Root Cause of Menopause Symptoms?
From a functional and naturopathic perspective, Veozah addresses the symptoms, but not the cause.
Hot flashes occur because of the decline in estrogen and progesterone that naturally occurs during menopause.
These hormones play roles far beyond temperature regulation. Their decline affects multiple systems in the body, including:
- Cardiovascular health
- Brain function and cognition
- Bone density
- Metabolism and weight regulation
- Skin elasticity and collagen production
- Sexual function
- Vaginal and urinary health
Because Veozah does not replace hormones, it does not address the broader physiological consequences of hormone decline.
In contrast, bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) can help restore hormone levels and support multiple aspects of health beyond symptom relief.
Hormone Therapy Offers Broader Benefits
When appropriately prescribed and monitored, hormone therapy provides benefits that extend well beyond reducing hot flashes.
Research has shown potential benefits including:
- Improved bone density
- Reduced risk of osteoporosis
- Better sleep quality
- Support for brain health
- Improved sexual response
- Improved cardiovascular markers
- Better mood and cognitive function
For many women, hot flashes are simply the most noticeable symptom of a much larger hormonal shift.
Addressing that shift directly produces more comprehensive health benefits.
When Veozah Might Be Helpful
While Veozah may not address the root hormonal changes of menopause, it may still be helpful in certain situations.
For example:
- Women who cannot take hormone therapy
- Women who choose not to use hormones
- Patients whose hot flashes persist despite hormone therapy (although this is relatively uncommon)
In these cases, a medication targeting vasomotor symptoms may offer temporary relief.
Potential Side Effects to Consider
Like any medication, Veozah comes with potential side effects. Reported issues include: nausea, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, sleep disruption, and elevated liver enzymes.
Women taking Veozah may require periodic liver monitoring to ensure safety. Another consideration is cost. The medication can cost around $800 for a 30-day supply, depending on insurance coverage.
A More Comprehensive Menopause Strategy
At Inland Naturopathic Wellness Center, we believe the best approach to menopause involves addressing the underlying hormonal changes while supporting whole-body health.
A personalized plan may include:
- Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT)
- Nutritional support
- Stress and adrenal health optimization
- Detoxification and environmental medicine strategies
- Lifestyle interventions that support healthy aging
This type of integrative approach helps address both symptoms and long-term health outcomes.
The Bottom Line
Veozah represents an interesting advancement in the pharmaceutical management of menopause-related hot flashes.
However, it’s important to understand what it does and what it does not do.
While it may help reduce vasomotor symptoms, it does not replace the hormones that decline during menopause, nor does it provide the broader systemic benefits associated with hormone optimization.
For women seeking not only relief from hot flashes but also support for heart health, bone strength, brain function, and vitality, a comprehensive hormone and wellness strategy is often the most effective approach.
Want a Personalized Plan for Menopause?
If you’re struggling with hot flashes, fatigue, sleep disturbances, or other symptoms of hormonal decline, a personalized evaluation can help identify the best strategy for your body. Call (909) 981-9200 today to schedule your FREE Discovery Consultation with Dr. Sasha Blissett. Together we’ll help uncover the root cause of your menopausal symptoms and create a personalized plan to restore your hormonal balance and peace of mind.
Learn more about our women’s health services and start your journey to lasting relief today.
Dr. Sasha Blissett
Dr. Sasha Blissett is a California-licensed Naturopathic Doctor specializing in women’s health and hormonal balance. She is a member of the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine, Association for the Advancement of Restorative Medicine, LearnSkin, and the California Association of Naturopathic Doctors.