Fezolinetant, also called Veoza and made by Astellas Pharma, is recommended to treat moderate to severe symptoms in final draft NICE guidance.

A 45mg tablet is taken once a day and is a non-hormonal treatment that works by blocking the nerve pathways in the brain that trigger hot flushes and night sweats.

Helen Knight, director of medicines evaluation at NICE, said: ‘We know that menopausal hot flushes and night sweats can have a profound impact on quality of life and significantly affect overall wellbeing.

‘For those who are unable to take HRT for varying reasons, options have historically been limited, and we have heard clearly from patients how difficult that can be.

‘The evidence shows fezolinetant can meaningfully reduce symptoms, and was found to be cost-effective, offering value for the taxpayer. This decision will give much-needed relief to those for whom HRT is unsuitable.'

Dr Sue Mann, national clinical director in women's health for NHS England, added: ‘Fezolinetant can be used when HRT is medically not recommended, for example in cases of deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism. It can also be used following a clinical risk assessment in some cases of diabetes or heart disease. Those who do not wish to take HRT are also eligible for this treatment.'