The National Health Service (NHS) in England has approved Gedeon Richter’s Ryeqo (relugolix + estradiol + norethisterone), the first long-term pill available for endometriosis, marking a significant breakthrough in treatment. However, it will only be available for patients who have tried all other treatment options.
Endometriosis is a chronic condition in which tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, leading to symptoms such as chronic pelvic pain, painful menstruation (dysmenorrhea) and pain during intercourse (dyspareunia). It can also affect fertility. Ryeqo is a combination medication containing relugolix (a gonadotropin-releasing hormone [GnRH] antagonist), estradiol (a form of oestrogen) and norethisterone (a synthetic progestin). Together, these three components help regulate levels of oestrogen and progesterone, which are key hormones involved in endometriosis, effectively reducing symptoms and improving overall disease management.
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According to key opinion leaders (KOLs) interviewed by GlobalData, injectable treatments for endometriosis often present challenges in patient adherence and comfort. Ryeqo’s approval as a standard NHS treatment improves its accessibility, reduces the need for invasive procedures gives patients more control in managing their condition. By eliminating the need for multiple medications and frequent clinic visits for injections, this oral treatment offers a more convenient alternative.
Unlike injections, which may initially worsen symptoms, the pill is taken at home and combines all necessary hormones into one convenient tablet. The oral route of administration offers greater clinical control over treatment, as dosages can be adjusted and the medication can be quickly discontinued if necessary. This flexibility provides a significant advantage over long-acting injectable medications, allowing for easier management of side effects and treatment interruptions when needed.
Helen Knight, director of medicines evaluation at the UK National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, stated: “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. 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.”
KOLs also highlighted the lack of long-term treatment options for endometriosis, as most available medications are only approved for short-term use. Ryeqo helps address this gap by offering sustained, long-term therapy, providing continuous symptom relief through hormonal regulation. This makes Ryeqo a valuable, non-invasive alternative for patients seeking effective, ongoing management of their condition, ultimately improving their quality of life.
The UK joins other nations in expanding access to endometriosis treatment, with this approval offering hope for continued progress in patient care. This approval enhances patients’ quality of life while also reducing strain on the NHS by decreasing hospital visits and the need for surgical procedures. Ryeqo’s approval brings the UK in line with global advancements in endometriosis treatment, ensuring that women have access to a more effective and convenient option.
