The National Health Service (NHS) in the United Kingdom has recently approved the use of an innovative oral medication for the treatment of endometriosis, offering renewed hope to women suffering from this debilitating and painful condition.
This combination therapy had already received approval in the United States and the European Union in 2021 for treating moderate to severe endometriosis-related pain in premenopausal women.
What is the medication?
The new treatment, known as Relugolix Combination Therapy or commercially as Ryeqo, is the first long-term, once-daily oral therapy licensed specifically for endometriosis. It consists of three active ingredients:
- Relugolix
- Estradiol
- Norethisterone
The medication works by suppressing hormones that contribute to the development of endometriosis while simultaneously supplementing the body with the hormones it needs to function properly.
Key advantages over injectable treatments
This oral therapy offers several advantages that make it a preferred option for many patients:
- Faster onset of relief compared to injectable alternatives.
- Convenient at-home use, eliminating the need for frequent clinic visits.
- A comprehensive hormonal approach in a single pill.
- Faster restoration of natural hormone levels after discontinuation.
Endometriosis: A challenging and impactful condition
Endometriosis affects approximately 10% of women and girls of reproductive age globally. It occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside its normal location—such as on the ovaries or fallopian tubes—causing severe pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, fatigue, and potentially impacting fertility.
Despite its prevalence, diagnosis often takes an average of nine years from the onset of symptoms, due to the similarity of its symptoms to those of other conditions such as fibroids, pelvic inflammatory disease, and irritable bowel syndrome.
A breakthrough in treatment
Commenting on the approval, Helen Knight, Director of Medicines Evaluation at the UK’s National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), stated:
“This new treatment represents a potential game changer in how we manage endometriosis in the UK. It empowers patients to regain control over their condition while delivering tangible health benefits. Instead of frequent clinic visits for injections, women can now manage their symptoms with a simple daily pill at home.”
