A transformational new pill for treating endometriosis has been approved for use on the NHS across England.
The new tablet, called relugolix-estradiol-norethisterone, has been approved by the drug regulator, National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice).
The ‘first-of-a-kind’ treatment was initially rejected by Nice but has now been approved for specific circumstances.
Endometriosis affects 1.5 million women in the UK, causing extreme tiredness and pain as tissue similar to the womb lining grows outside of the uterus.
What is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is where cells similar to those in the womb lining grow in other parts of the body.
These cells can be found in ovaries, fallopian tubes and lining of the pelvis.
According to the NHS, symptoms of endometriosis can include:
- pain in your lower tummy and back (pelvic area)
- pain during or after sex
- extreme tiredness (fatigue)
- pain or bleeding in other areas, such as in the chest, which may cause shortness of breath and coughing up blood
- severe period pain
- heavy periods
- pain when you poo or pee.
What is the new drug for Endometriosis called?
The tablet is known as relugolix-estradiol-norethisterone, or relugolix combination therapy.
It will cost £72 for a 28-day supply, Nice has said.
How does the pill work?
Relugolix-estradiol-norethisterone works by blocking specific hormones causing the condition, as well as providing crucial replacement hormones.
Previous injectable treatments could initially make symptoms worse and required regular trips to clinics.
This new pill can be taken at home, works faster and combines the necessary hormones in one pill.
Helen Knight, the director of medicines evaluation at Nice, said: ‘This new treatment marks a potential step-change in how we manage endometriosis, putting control back in patients’ hands while ensuring value for the taxpayer.
‘Instead of travelling to clinics for injections, there is now a daily tablet that can be taken at home.
‘The treatment can also be stopped and started more easily, which is particularly important for those planning to have children and for managing side effects.
‘This convenience not only benefits patients but reduces pressure on NHS services.’
Who is eligible for the new treatment?
Relugolix-estradiol-norethisterone is only available for those who have tried all other options.
Patients who have exhausted other medical and surgical treatments will be offered the drug.
Nice has estimated that will mean 1,000 women a year will be able to take the pill.
A spokesperson for Endometriosis UK welcomed the approval of Relugolix-estradiol-norethisterone.
They added: ‘Endometriosis UK believes that women and those assigned female at birth in the UK should be able to choose the right treatment and management options for them.
‘We recommend that treatment decisions are always made in partnership with the individual and their medical practitioner. There are far too few options available due to the historic lack of research into endometriosis.’
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