Research Society and Development · Oct 9, 2026
Neurokinin receptor antagonists in the treatment of menopausal vasomotor symptoms: Efficacy, safety, and impact on sleep and quality of life
By Braga RM, Branco MCPDC, Martins ALC et al.
Vasomotor symptoms are among the most frequent manifestations of the menopausal transition and can impair women's sleep, quality of life, and functional capacity. Although hormone therapy is effective, its use may be limited by contraindications, the need for caution, or patient preference, encouraging the development of nonhormonal alternatives. This study aimed to analyze the available evidence on the efficacy and safety of neurokinin receptor antagonists in the treatment of vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause, with an emphasis on fezolinetant and elinzanetant, as well as to assess their effects on symptom frequency and severity, sleep, and quality of life. An integrative literature review was conducted, with a search of PubMed/MEDLINE between January 2020 and September 2026, prioritizing randomized clinical trials and following the PRISMA 2020 recommendations. The studies demonstrated that both drugs significantly reduce the frequency and severity of vasomotor symptoms compared with placebo, while also providing benefits for sleep and quality of life. Fezolinetant showed efficacy in women unsuitable for hormone therapy, while elinzanetant showed favorable results in women receiving endocrine therapy for breast cancer. It is concluded that these drugs constitute effective nonhormonal alternatives, although head-to-head comparative studies and additional long-term safety data are still needed.