The new pill is the first long-term daily pill licensed to treat the condition, and works by blocking specific hormones that contribute to endometriosis
A groundbreaking pill designed to revolutionise the treatment of endometriosis has been given the green light for use on the NHS. The combination drug, known as relugolix–estradiol–norethisterone or Ryeqo, could provide relief for around 1,000 women in England each year who suffer from this debilitating condition.
This is the first long-term daily pill licensed to treat endometriosis and works by blocking specific hormones that contribute to the condition while also providing necessary hormone replacement. Unlike current injectable treatments which can initially worsen symptoms, this pill can be taken at home, works more quickly, combines hormones in one pill and reduces the need for clinic visits.
Endometriosis, a condition where cells similar to those in the lining of the womb grow in other parts of the body, can cause severe pain, heavy periods, exhaustion and fertility problems, significantly impacting women’s lives. It affects around 1.5 million women in the UK, but diagnosis typically takes nine years from when symptoms first appear, according to Nice.
Initially, Nice rejected the drug, but new evidence provided by the manufacturer Gedeon Richter addressed questions about its effectiveness and value for money.
This groundbreaking drug will now be offered on the NHS but exclusively for patients who haven’t found successful medical or surgical solutions for their endometriosis struggles.
Speaking about this revolutionary development, Helen Knight, director of medicines evaluation at Nice, shared: “This new treatment marks a potential step-change in how we manage endometriosis, putting control back in patients’ hands while ensuring value for the taxpayer.
“Instead of travelling to clinics for injections, there is now a daily tablet that can be taken at home.
“The treatment can also be stopped and started more easily, which is particularly important for those planning to have children and for managing side-effects. This convenience not only benefits patients but reduces pressure on NHS services.”
Patients will need to budget £72 for a month’s supply of this treatment (this doesn’t include VAT). The NHS highlights the diagnostic challenges of endometriosis, with symptoms commonly mistaken for conditions like fibroids, pelvic inflammatory disease, and irritable bowel syndrome.
Endometriosis UK, a prominent charity, does highlight however that this drug might only be applicable to a limited number of the estimated 1.5 million women suffering from the condition.
They stated: “For those with a history of previous medical or surgical treatment for their endometriosis, Relugolix CT is an alternative option if treatments such as tranexamic acid, hormonal contraceptives, and intrauterine delivery systems have not worked or are unsuitable.
“Relugolix CT is currently the only licensed GnRH antagonist option and is an alternative secondary medical option to GnRH agonists (eg Prostap & Zoladex) which are only licensed for up to six months.
“Relugolix CT can be taken up until menopause.”
Dr Sue Mann, NHS national clinical director for women’s health, commented: “This first-of-a-kind treatment for endometriosis – a condition which can be extremely debilitating – will give women greater control of their own health by potentially allowing them to get the treatment they need in the comfort of their own homes, without the need to attend regular appointments.”