Words by EMJ GOLD newsdesk
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has approved the first daily oral treatment for endometriosis symptoms for use within the NHS in England.
Access to the treatment from Gedeon Richter, however, will be restricted to patients who have exhausted all other medical and surgical treatment options – an estimated 1,000 women annually.
Endometriosis affects approximately 1.5 million people in the UK, causing significant pain and fatigue due to tissue resembling the endometrial lining growing outside the uterus. Unlike the current standard of care, which includes intrauterine systems and injections, the new tablet allows patients to self-administer the medication at home –becoming a convenient alternative.
“This new treatment marks a potential step-change in how we manage endometriosis, putting control back in patients’ hands,” said Helen Knight, Director of Medicines Evaluation, NICE. “Instead of travelling to clinics for injections, there is now a daily tablet that can be taken at home.”
The therapy can also be easily initiated and discontinued compared to existing treatments, making it a flexible option for individuals considering pregnancy or managing side effects.
The drug was initially rejected by NICE, but the organisation chose to approve it after the manufacturer provided new data showing better efficacy and cost-effectiveness.
The charity Endometriosis UK welcomed the decision, but highlighted that while the new option will give patients more choice, it will only benefit a limited number of people with the condition.
