First Daily Pill for Endometriosis Approved for NHS Use

Introduction:

Endometriosis affects approximately 1.5 million women in the UK, causing chronic pain and fatigue when tissue similar to the womb lining grows elsewhere in the body. Despite its widespread impact, diagnosis typically takes nine years from when symptoms first appear. The approval of relugolix-estradiol-norethisterone offers a new treatment option that starts working more quickly than injectable alternatives, can be taken at home, combines all necessary hormones in one pill, and allows hormone levels to return to normal faster when stopped.

Benefits of the New Treatment:

• Rapid Onset: Begins working more quickly than injectable alternatives.
• Home Administration: Can be taken at home, eliminating the need for clinic visits.
• Comprehensive Hormone Therapy: Combines all necessary hormones in a single pill.
• Flexible Treatment: Allows hormone levels to return to normal faster upon discontinuation.

Patient Autonomy and NHS Efficiency:

Patient experts highlighted the importance of having additional treatment options that can be taken at home, giving people more autonomy in managing their condition. This convenience not only benefits patients but also reduces pressure on NHS services.

Conclusion:

The approval of relugolix-estradiol-norethisterone represents a major step forward in the treatment of endometriosis, offering an effective, more accessible, and flexible option for patients. By reducing the need for hospital-administered treatments, this decision supports both patient wellbeing and NHS efficiency.

Citation:

National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. (2025, March 13). First daily pill for endometriosis approved for NHS use. Read more.