NHS Approves First of Its Kind Daily Pill for Endometriosis Sufferers
For the 1.5 million women in the UK battling endometriosis, a groundbreaking new treatment is set to change lives. The NHS has officially approved a first-of-its-kind daily pill, offering faster relief and a more convenient alternative to existing treatments.
A Long-Awaited Solution for Endometriosis Patients
Endometriosis is a painful and often debilitating condition where tissue similar to the womb lining grows outside the uterus, leading to severe pelvic pain, heavy periods, exhaustion, and even fertility issues. For many sufferers, the road to diagnosis alone can take an agonizing nine years, leaving them without effective treatment for far too long.
Now, relugolix–estradiol–norethisterone, also known as Ryeqo, has been approved for NHS use, offering a beacon of hope for those who have struggled with the limitations of existing treatments. Unlike injectable therapies that require frequent clinic visits and may initially worsen symptoms, this new pill can be taken at home and is designed for long-term use.
How Ryeqo Works – A Game-Changer in Treatment
Unlike traditional hormone therapies, Ryeqo works by blocking the hormones that fuel endometriosis, while simultaneously providing necessary hormone replacement to mitigate side effects. This dual-action approach not only addresses the root cause of the condition but also prevents some of the harsh side effects seen with previous treatments.
For patients, this means:
Faster symptom relief
No more painful injections
A simple daily pill instead of multiple medications
More control over their treatment, especially for those planning pregnancy
The Journey to NHS Approval
Initially, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) rejected Ryeqo due to concerns over effectiveness and cost. However, after new evidence was submitted by manufacturer Gedeon Richter, the drug was reassessed and given the green light for NHS availability.
The treatment will now be available for patients whose previous medical or surgical treatments have failed, offering an essential alternative for those who have struggled to find relief.
What This Means for Patients and the NHS
Helen Knight, Director of Medicines Evaluation at NICE, described the approval as a “step-change in how we manage endometriosis.”
“Instead of travelling to clinics for injections, there is now a daily tablet that can be taken at home. This convenience not only benefits patients but also reduces pressure on NHS services.”
For many, this means an improved quality of life, fewer disruptions to work and daily activities, and a sense of control over their own health. The ability to start and stop treatment with ease is particularly beneficial for those considering pregnancy.
The Cost and Accessibility of the Treatment
The list price for Ryeqo is £72 for a 28-day supply (excluding VAT), making it an affordable and accessible option for those eligible for NHS treatment.
With endometriosis affecting millions, this approval represents not just a medical breakthrough, but a long-overdue recognition of the condition’s severity. For those who have suffered in silence, Ryeqo offers renewed hope for a future with less pain and more possibilities.
Looking Ahead: A Turning Point for Women’s Health
The approval of Ryeqo is a milestone in women’s healthcare, highlighting the need for continued research and better treatment options for conditions that have been historically overlooked. While this is a significant step forward, experts emphasize that early diagnosis and increased awareness remain critical in improving outcomes for endometriosis sufferers.
For now, this revolutionary pill offers a new path forward—one that prioritizes patient well-being, convenience, and the right to live without constant pain.