Health Canada has approved elinzanetant, sold under the brand name Lynkuet, for treating moderate to severe hot flashes and night sweats in certain breast cancer patients, offering a new non-hormonal option for managing symptoms linked to cancer treatment.
The authorization expands the drug’s approved use beyond its original indication for menopause-related vasomotor symptoms. Health Canada’s latest authorization took effect on Friday, according to the department’s drug database.
Many breast cancer patients experience hot flashes and night sweats because treatments designed to reduce estrogen can trigger menopause-like symptoms. This is particularly relevant for patients receiving long-term endocrine therapy for hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer.
Elinzanetant works without hormones by targeting specific neurons involved in regulating body temperature. Its non-hormonal approach is significant because hormone replacement therapy is generally not an option for many breast cancer patients.
Doctors say severe hot flashes and night sweats can interfere with sleep, work and everyday activities. In some cases, symptoms can become so disruptive that patients consider stopping their cancer medication, potentially affecting their treatment.
The approval follows clinical evidence reviewed by Health Canada showing the drug’s effectiveness specifically among breast cancer patients receiving anti-estrogen treatment. Oncologists described the development as potentially valuable for patients who have had limited effective options for managing these symptoms.
However, access may remain a challenge. Bayer said the medication is not currently publicly funded in Canada, and the company did not provide a price in response to questions.
The approval gives patients and healthcare providers another treatment option while highlighting the importance of addressing treatment-related side effects that can affect quality of life and adherence to breast cancer therapy.
Swifteradio.com
