‘First-of-Its-Kind’ Endometriosis Tablet Approved for NHS Use

For the 1.5 million women in the UK living with endometriosis, a groundbreaking new treatment could be a game-changer. The first daily tablet for long-term management of the condition has now been approved for use on the NHS, offering a more convenient and potentially more effective alternative to existing treatments.

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has reversed its initial rejection and given the green light for relugolix-estradiol-norethisterone—also known as relugolix combination therapy or Ryeqo—to be routinely prescribed.

This approval marks a major milestone for endometriosis care, which has long been hindered by delayed diagnoses, limited treatment options, and a lack of awareness.

Why This Approval Matters

Endometriosis is a chronic, painful condition caused by tissue similar to the womb lining growing outside the uterus. This tissue behaves like the womb lining—building up, breaking down, and bleeding—but with no way to leave the body, leading to severe pain, inflammation, and scarring.

Despite affecting 1 in 10 women of reproductive age, diagnosis can take up to a decade, and treatments remain limited. There is no known cure, and current medical therapies—including hormonal injections—can initially worsen symptoms and require regular clinic visits.

This new tablet offers a faster-acting, more convenient solution that could transform treatment for thousands.

How the New Treatment Works

Unlike current injectable treatments, which require regular NHS appointments and can cause temporary symptom flares, Ryeqo:

• Works faster than injections.

• Can be taken at home, reducing the need for hospital visits.

• Combines all necessary hormones in one tablet.

• Allows easier stopping and restarting, which is beneficial for those planning pregnancy.

The cost of the treatment is listed at £72 for a 28-day supply, though NHS agreements could make it more accessible for patients.

A ‘Step-Change’ in Endometriosis Treatment

Experts say the approval represents a major breakthrough for endometriosis care.

Helen Knight, Director of Medicines Evaluation at NICE, described the decision as a "potential step-change" in treatment:

“Instead of travelling to clinics for injections, there is now a daily tablet that can be taken at home. This convenience benefits patients while also reducing pressure on NHS services.”

Dr Sue Mann, NHS National Clinical Director for Women’s Health, echoed this sentiment:

“This first-of-a-kind treatment will give women greater control over their own health by allowing them to get the treatment they need in the comfort of their own homes, without the need for regular appointments.”

Who Will Be Eligible?

Ryeqo will be available to patients for whom both medical and surgical treatments have failed. While it is not a cure, it is expected to offer significant relief for many women struggling with pain, fatigue, and other debilitating symptoms.

What’s Next?

This approval comes amid growing awareness of women’s health inequalities and increased investment in research and treatments for female-specific conditions. However, campaigners argue that more funding and faster diagnoses are still needed to truly transform endometriosis care.

For now, the approval of Ryeqo is a promising step forward—one that empowers women with more control over their own treatment and offers hope for better endometriosis management in the future.