New Oral Treatment for Endometriosis Approved in New Zealand

New Zealand has gained a new option for managing endometriosis symptoms with the approval of a treatment called Ryeqo. This oral medication, which is taken once daily, contains Relugolix, a component that reduces estrogen levels, a hormone known to exacerbate endometriosis symptoms such as pain and subfertility.

Endometriosis affects an estimated one in ten women in New Zealand, translating to over 120,000 people, including girls and those assigned female at birth. Despite the absence of a cure for the condition, the introduction of Ryeqo is viewed positively. Tanya Cooke, chief executive of Endometriosis New Zealand, emphasized the need for equitable access to effective treatments. “To provide truly effective care, we must ensure equitable access to the full spectrum of evidence-based therapies,” she stated.

While the approval of Ryeqo marks progress, it is not without limitations. The treatment is currently not publicly funded and is only available through private prescriptions. The monthly cost of Ryeqo is approximately $250, which patients must pay out of pocket, in addition to any healthcare fees. According to Pharmac, New Zealand’s pharmaceutical management agency, it has not yet received an application to consider funding this new treatment.

Dr. Orna McGinn, a general practitioner and chair of the NZ Women in Medicine, noted that while the treatment is available through procurement, there is a lack of communication regarding its accessibility in primary care settings. “If a doctor or medical professional has a patient who may benefit from this, they can apply to have it made available, and then the patient pays privately,” she explained.

Dr. McGinn highlighted the pressing need for more comprehensive information about this treatment option, particularly for general practitioners who frequently encounter patients with suspected endometriosis. “It would be really good to get some good information out about where this sits in the pantheon of treatments,” she said. Currently, many women with endometriosis rely on oral contraceptives or anti-inflammatory painkillers to manage their symptoms.

The impact of endometriosis on women’s lives can be significant. Dr. McGinn remarked that painful periods are often normalized, despite the fact that for those with endometriosis, the pain can be debilitating. “Often, we’re talking about absolutely dreadful, debilitating pain, which prevents women from being able to get to work or study and impacts on fertility,” she noted.

She further emphasized that recognition and timely diagnosis are crucial for effective treatment. “We know that every dollar spent on women is returned up to ten times,” Dr. McGinn added. Yet, she expressed concern that without a comprehensive women’s health strategy—legislated over two years ago—women’s health issues, including endometriosis, continue to lag behind those in other comparable countries.

The introduction of Ryeqo in New Zealand follows similar treatments in the UK, where it has reportedly led to a significant reduction in endometriosis symptoms for women. As more patients navigate the complexities of this condition, the ongoing discourse surrounding access, funding, and effective treatment options remains vital in improving health outcomes for women across the nation.