Breakthrough endometriosis pill approved for use on NHS England

Ella Wilson

A first of its kind new pill for endometriosis treatment has been approved for use on the NHS, offering hope to millions suffering from the condition.

A new daily pill that could transform the way endometriosis is treated has recently been approved for use on the NHS in England and Wales, announced by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).

Around 1,000 women a year living with endometriosis will be able to access the new pill, called relugolix-estradiol-norethisterone (also known as relugolix combination therapy or Ryeqo).

Sir Alec Shelbrooke

Sir Alec Shelbrooke, Conservative party member of parliament for Wetherby and Easingwold, advocates for the condition within parliamentary discussions, and said it is "really encouraging news".

He added: "It looks like some fundamental breakthroughs are starting to be made, and if the drugs are there to treat it then early diagnosis is really important as well."

The medication is only available for patients who have had unsuccessful outcomes in all other medical or surgical treatments, therefore will only be suitable for a small proportion of those with the disease.

Beth Lentini

Beth Lentini, who lives with endometriosis, has experienced multiple failed treatment options, and is hopeful that she will be prescribed the pill.

She said: "The second the news dropped I contacted my GP. I’m currently on Dienogest and it’s not doing a lot for me. I wanted to go back on the prostap injections but then saw this approval and thought we must try!"

At this time, Beth's GP has contacted her specialist for approval of the prescription. She is eager to try it and has hope for it improving her symptoms.

Endometriosis affects 1.5 million women in the UK, causing pain, tiredness, and heavy bleeding, as a result of tissue similar to the lining of the womb growing in other parts of the body [Endometriosis UK].

The tablet can be taken daily which eliminates the need for multiple medications and regular trips to clinics for injections. Additionally, if side effects are deemed unmanageable it can be stopped quickly. The alternative, current GnRH agonists, can be given as injections or with an implant, and last 4-12 weeks.

Unlike current injectable treatments, these pills can be taken at home, work more quickly and combines the hormones into one pill.

The new combination therapy pill will cost £72 for a 28-day supply and works by blocking specific hormones that contribute to the condition, while also providing replacement hormones that are needed.

According to Endometriosis UK, it is a type of ‘medical menopause’ combined with HRT. This allows for an all-in-one treatment where the patient does not have to remember to additionally take ABT (add-back therapy) as a separate tablet.

Niamh Carson

Niamh Carson, who also deals with endometriosis, said: "It's a great step that's being taken, and it allows people to treat themselves easily at home. A lot of people experience debilitating pain from their endo, so it means they won't have to travel to be treated on days where they don't feel able to leave the house.

"Not only is it beneficial to people with endometriosis, but it's also economically better and helps relieve the pressure off hospitals and clinics."

This treatment was initially rejected by NICE, however the recommendation comes after the company provided new evidence that addressed initial questions about the treatment’s effectiveness and value for money.

In response to this news, Endometriosis UK, a leading charity, released a statement, which said they are “keen to see more investment in research to find the cause of the disease, better management and treatment options, and one day a cure.”