The first daily pill for treating endometriosis symptoms has been approved for use on the NHS in England, but only for patients who have exhausted all other treatment options.
Endometriosis affects approximately 1.5 million women in the UK, causing pain and extreme fatigue due to tissue similar to the womb lining growing outside the uterus. The newly approved tablet, known as relugolix combination therapy, offers an alternative to injectable treatments and can be taken at home.
This combination therapy works by blocking specific hormones that contribute to endometriosis while also providing necessary replacement hormones. It is expected to be available on the NHS for around 1,000 women per year who have already tried all other medical and surgical treatments, including hormonal contraceptives and intrauterine delivery systems.
Symptoms of endometriosis can be severe, including intense period pain, heavy bleeding, pain when using the bathroom, and discomfort in the lower abdomen. Other common symptoms include fatigue, shortness of breath, low mood, anxiety, and difficulty conceiving.
This new treatment option provides more flexibility as it can be stopped and started more easily than other treatments. This is particularly beneficial for those who are planning to have children or who need to manage side effects more effectively. The ability to take the pill at home could also ease pressure on NHS services by reducing the need for hospital visits.
The approval of the pill marks a potential step forward in the management of endometriosis, giving patients greater control over their treatment while ensuring cost-effectiveness for the healthcare system. Initially, the drug was rejected, but further evidence provided by the manufacturer demonstrated its effectiveness and value for money.
For many, the journey to diagnosis and effective treatment is long and difficult. Some individuals experience severe pain from their very first period, trying multiple contraceptive pills to manage their symptoms, often without success. The impact on daily life can be overwhelming, with some people unable to attend school, work, or social activities due to debilitating pain.
Surgical options, such as laparoscopic surgery, can provide temporary relief, but in some cases, the pain returns within months. As a result, some individuals are forced to consider private treatment due to long NHS waiting times.
Currently, hormonal injections that shut down estrogen production are a common treatment for endometriosis. These injections, which last up to three months, must be administered in a hospital setting. The new oral treatment eliminates the need for these visits and simplifies hormone replacement therapy by combining it into a single pill.
While the approval of this tablet is a positive step, it will only help a relatively small number of people. There remains a need for increased investment in further research and treatment options to address the broader challenges of endometriosis care.
The treatment is expected to cost £72 for a 28-day supply.
