by Mr Martin Hirsch
A new daily pill for managing endometriosis symptoms has been approved for NHS use in England, providing an additional treatment option for individuals who have exhausted all other medical and surgical approaches. The medication, known as relugolix combination therapy, has been approved by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) and serves as an alternative to existing injectable treatments, offering the convenience of home administration. However, the drug will only be available to around 1,000 patients per year, specifically those who have already tried options such as hormonal contraceptives and intrauterine devices (IUDs) without success.
What is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis affects an estimated 1.5 million women in the UK, causing chronic pain and extreme fatigue due to the growth of tissue similar to the uterine lining in other areas of the body. The condition presents with symptoms including severe menstrual pain, heavy periods, pain during urination or bowel movements, discomfort after intercourse, fatigue, anxiety, and difficulty conceiving.
How Does the New Treatment Work?
The relugolix combination therapy pill, priced at £72 per 28-day supply, works by blocking hormones that contribute to endometriosis while simultaneously providing essential hormone replacement. Unlike traditional injections, which can last up to three months and require hospital visits, this oral medication can be easily stopped and restarted, making it particularly advantageous for individuals managing side effects or planning pregnancy.
Challenges and the Need for Further Research
Although this new treatment expands options for endometriosis patients, it will only benefit a small subset of individuals. Emma Cox, chief executive of Endometriosis UK, considers the approval a step in the right direction but stresses the importance of greater investment in research and broader treatment options.
Currently, first-line treatments for endometriosis include pain relief, hormonal therapies, and surgery. Hormonal injections, which work by suppressing estrogen production, can be effective in slowing endometriosis growth but require regular hospital visits. In contrast, this new daily pill simplifies treatment by integrating hormone therapy into a single, convenient dose, which can be continued until menopause.
Conclusion
The introduction of relugolix combination therapy marks progress in endometriosis management, offering greater flexibility and convenience to those who have not responded to existing treatments. However, given the strict eligibility criteria, its overall impact remains limited. Both experts and patients emphasise the urgent need for increased research funding to develop more accessible and effective treatment options for the millions affected by this chronic condition.
BBC News Item can be viewed here.