Webinar Summary
- Highlight the impact of menopause and vasomotor symptoms
- Evaluate traditional treatment options for VMS due to menopause
- Review the current understanding of pathophysiological mechanisms that result in VMS
- Explore new pharmacotherapeutic therapies for VMS-neurokinin antagonists
VMS are reported by up to 80% of women during the menopausal transition and are a leading cause for women to seek medical attention. One-third of menopausal women report severe vasomotor symptoms (VMS, e.g., hot flashes and night sweats) along with sleep disruption and mood change. These symptoms which can last 10 years or more, with ethnic differences, are not just a nuisance but may significantly impact relationships at home and work, productivity, and quality of life.
Recent research has shown that VMS result from hyperactivation of the thermoregulatory pathway mediated by hypertrophy of the KNDy neurons associated with the decline of estrogen seen at menopause. Inside the thermoregulatory center in the hypothalamus, neurons known as kisspeptin/neurokinin B/dynorphin (KNDy) neurons are involved in regulating the body's temperature. KNDy neurons are inhibited by estrogen and stimulated by the neuropeptide neurokinin B (NKB) in a delicate balance.
While menopausal hormone therapy is the most effective treatment for hot flashes and night sweats, it may not be suitable for all women. In such cases, nonhormonal therapies, including low-dose antidepressants, gabapentinoids, though most used off-label, provide viable alternatives for women who are not good candidates for hormone therapy.
New pharmacotherapeutic therapies, neurokinin receptor antagonists, have emerged as effective, nonhormonal therapy for women suffering with bothersome VMS.
Presenters
JoAnn V. Pinkerton
Dr. JoAnn Pinkerton is the Mamie Jessup Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Virginia School of Medicine. She is passionate about women’s health and is the founder and division chief for the Midlife Health Center at UVA Health. She has led more than 30 clinical research trials with over 170 peer-reviewed publications on menopause, hormone and nonhormone therapies for VMS, and osteoporosis, including national and international position statements.
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