Will elinzanetant, a neurokinin receptor antagonist, have a role in the treatment of hot flashes?

Introduction: The use of hormonal treatment for the vasomotor symptoms (VSM) associated with the menopause is back in favor, as the adverse effects reported in the early 2000s have been dispelled. However, many women are still reluctant to use, or have contraindications to, hormonal therapy. Elinzanetant is a combined neurokinin (NK)-1 and -3 receptor antagonist, being trialed for menopausal symptoms.

Area covered: A combination of OASIS 1 and 2 in the menopause showed that elinzanetant caused a reduction in the frequency and intensity of VSM and may also independently reduce sleep disturbances. Adverse effects were low with elinzanetant.

Expert opinion: Further study is needed to clarify whether elinzanetant reduces sleep disturbance and whether this is due to antagonism at NK-1 receptors. If further studies support OASIS 1 and 2, elinzanetant maybe considered for use in hot flashes associated with the menopause, in subjects where hormonal therapy is contraindicated or not accepted. Fezolinetant, an NK-3 receptor antagonist, has recently been registered for VSM associated with the menopause. Fezolinetant does not have a clear-cut effect on sleep disturbances independent of VMS. Only, if elinzanetant can be shown to independently reduce sleep disturbances, it may have an advantage over fezolinetant.