New Endometriosis Pill New Hope for Patients

APPROXIMATELY 1,000 women per year with endometriosis could benefit from a new treatment that offers several advantages over existing options. This treatment, known as relugolix–estradiol–norethisterone (or relugolix combination therapy, marketed as Ryeqo), provides an alternative to injectable therapies by combining all necessary hormones into a single daily tablet. Unlike injections, which require administration at a clinic, this pill can be taken at home, making it a more convenient and accessible option for many patients. 

Endometriosis affects approximately 1.5 million women in the UK, leading to chronic pain and fatigue as tissue similar to the womb lining grows outside the uterus. Despite its significant impact, diagnosis often takes an average of nine years from the onset of symptoms. Managing the condition effectively remains a challenge, with many women experiencing limited treatment options that either require clinical administration or pose difficulties in balancing hormonal levels. 

The introduction of Ryeqo represents a step-change in the management of endometriosis, offering patients more control over their treatment. One key benefit is that it starts working more quickly than injectable alternatives, allowing for faster symptom relief. Additionally, should a patient need to stop the medication, hormone levels return to normal more rapidly compared to other treatments, which is particularly important for those considering pregnancy. 

Following an earlier negative recommendation, the treatment has now been approved for routine NHS commissioning after new evidence was submitted, addressing initial concerns about its effectiveness and cost-effectiveness. This means that patients who have not responded to medical or surgical treatments for endometriosis will now have access to an additional therapeutic option. 

With the approval of Ryeqo, endometriosis patients in the UK will benefit from a treatment that not only enhances convenience and autonomy but also ensures better value for the NHS. This marks an important step forward in improving care and quality of life for those affected by the condition. 

Katie Wright, EMJ 

Reference 

National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). First daily pill for endometriosis approved for NHS use. 2025. Available at: https://www.nice.org.uk/news/articles/first-daily-pill-for-endometriosis-approved-for-nhs-use. Last accessed: 14 March 2025.