Ryeqo- The Solution to Endo?

manuelladanso
5 days ago
2 min read

Relugolix-estradiol-norethisterone, short name Ryeqo, has recently been approved by the FDA for use in the NHS as a treatment for endometriosis. This pill, though not a cure, may revolutionise how endometriosis symptoms are managed in the UK, potentially provding relief to thousands of patients.

Endometriosis is a condition, commonly affecting women between puberty age and menopause, where the lining of the uterus (the endometrium) grows outside of it. Endometriosis is typically found in the pelvic region, but in some cases it can spread to further regions i.e. diaphragm, lungs, etc. Common sympotms include severe period pains, pain during sex and heavy periods. Currently there is no cure for endometriosis, the current treatment manages the symptoms.

reference:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Endometriosis

The first line of treatment to manage endometriosis symptoms in pain medication in addition to hormonal treatment i.e. contraceptive pills. Contraceptive pills act to stop the shedding on the endometrium during the menstrual cycle, managing the symptoms caused by endometriosus. After pain medication and hormonal treatment, gonadotrophin hormone agonist (given by injection at the hospital or gp practice) and surgery are the next options. However these are invasive and often not long term. Hence, the need for a treatment that is more "bearable" for patients.

Ryeqo works by blocking hormones that contributes to endometriosis (oestrogen) and replaces the required ones. Trials have shown that it reduces pelvic pain as effectively as Gonadotrophin Releasing Hormone (GnRH) agonists but no comparison between surgery. It is to be prescribed to patients that have had and surgical/medical treatments with no relief. It is a combination therapy (containing relugolix, estradiol and norethisterone acetate) used to treat symptoms of endometriosis in patients.

A key advantages of this treatment are:

Treatments can be taken at home instead of going in to hospitals for injections.
Treatment can be stopped and started when necessary, allowing for pregnancy and managing side effects.

There are no known side effects declared, deeming it to be a relatively safe treatment. Of course, prolonged use of this medication in the NHS will provide better insight into its true effectiveness.

Could this pill be a new life changing treatment for endometriosis patients?

Assessed and Endorsed by the MedReport Medical Review Board