By Annette Pinder

The FDA reports that up to 80% of women experience hot flashes and night sweats during menopause. These sudden waves of heat, flushing, and disrupted sleep can impact quality of life, work, and mental health. Fortunately, for women seeking relief — especially those who cannot or prefer not to use hormone replacement therapy — a new non-hormonal option is now available.

Lynkuet was FDA-approved in October 2025. It is a once-daily pill developed by Bayer that treats moderate to severe menopause symptoms. Unlike hormone therapy, Lynkuet does not contain estrogen or progesterone, providing an alternative for women who cannot take hormones. According to Bayer and the FDA, Lynkuet is part of a new class of drugs called dual neurokinin-1 (NK1) and neurokinin-3 (NK3) receptor antagonists. The American Association of Medical Colleges explains that these receptors are involved in neuronal circuits in the hypothalamus and regulate our body’s “internal thermostat.” When estrogen levels drop during menopause, it causes the thermostat to go out of balance, triggering hot flashes. Lynkuet blocks these receptors to help restore balance and reduce the frequency and severity of these symptoms.

Medicine in Motion News reported that women in clinical trials experienced fewer hot flashes and less severity, along with better sleep and daily functioning within the first 12 weeks. Lynkuet, available as a once-daily pill, is a breakthrough for women who cannot use traditional hormone therapy due to personal or family history of breast cancer, cardiovascular risks, or blood clotting problems.

Many gynecologists in Western New York are updating their protocols to include non-hormonal Lynkuet. If you’re experiencing uncomfortable menopause symptoms, ask your provider if neurokinin-receptor-antagonist therapy might be right for you.