Veozah (Fezolinetant)

Description

Veozah, also referred to by its generic name fezolinetant, works as a neurokinin 3 (NK3) receptor antagonist that targets and blocks specific receptors in the brain's temperature control center. It is used to treat moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms, commonly identified as hot flashes and night sweats, in women who are undergoing menopause.

Directions

Take Veozah orally as directed by your healthcare provider. The usual dosage is a 45 mg oral tablet once daily with or without meals. Do not modify doses or stop taking the medication without consulting a physician, as doing so may alter the effectiveness of the treatment. Veozah is for oral use only and should be taken consistently at the same time each day to maintain steady levels in your body. Before and throughout treatment, liver enzyme tests may be needed to detect potential liver injury.

Ingredients

Veozah's active ingredient is fezolinetant. Alongside the active substance, Veozah contains several inactive ingredients, which include microcrystalline cellulose and magnesium stearate, among others. The coating of the tablets typically contains components like hypromellose, titanium dioxide, lactose monohydrate, and iron oxides, which give the tablet its distinct appearance.

Contraindications

Avoid taking or using this medication if any of the following apply:

• Known allergy to fezolinetant or any of its components
• Severe liver impairment
• Severe kidney problems
• Concurrent use of medications that are processed by CYP1A2 liver enzymes

Cautions

• Before beginning treatment with Veozah, it's important to discuss the following with your healthcare professional:
• All other medications you're currently using
• Any pre-existing medical conditions
• Known allergies
• Your pregnancy status or plans for pregnancy
• If you are currently breastfeeding

• Veozah has the potential for severe adverse effects, including elevated liver enzyme levels. Therefore, your healthcare professional should check your liver function both before and while you are on Veozah.
• Watch for signs such as nausea, vomiting, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or pain in the upper right side of the abdomen, as these may indicate liver issues. Report these symptoms to your healthcare provider immediately.
• In case you forget to take a dose of Veozah, take it as soon as possible on the same day, but make sure there is at least a 12-hour interval before the next dose.

Side Effects

Veozah commonly causes side effects that are usually not serious and may subside as the body adjusts to the medication. Common Veozah side effects include stomach pain, diarrhea, difficulty sleeping, back pain, and redness of the face, neck, and arms.

Veozah can also cause serious side effects that may need immediate medical attention. Contact a healthcare professional promptly if symptoms of liver problems develop, such as loss of appetite, persistent nausea, vomiting, pain in the upper right side of the stomach, tiredness, itching, dark urine, clay-colored stools, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).

References:

1. Veozah (Fezolinetant) Product Monograph. Northbrook, IL: Astellas Pharma; 2023.
2. Veozah (Fezolinetant) Drug Label Information. Northbrook, IL: Astellas Pharma; 2023.

About Dr. Gerardo Sison (Page Author)

An honors graduate of the University of Florida, Dr. Sison started his pharmacy career in a community setting, extending his services to hospitals and clinics over time. He has also worked in medication therapy management, advising patients on proper medication use for their chronic health conditions. Read More....