Endometriosis is a chronic condition affecting approximately one in seven Australian women.
It's known for the growth of uterine tissue OUTSIDE the uterine cavity. Often leading to significant pain and sometimes fertility issues.
In a landmark move, the Australian government has announced that, starting May 1, 2025, a new medication, Ryeqo®, will be subsidised under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). This initiative aims to make effective treatment more accessible and affordable for those suffering from MODERATE to SEVERE ENDOMETRIOSIS PAIN.
Endometriosis Treatment: What is this new drug?
It's a medication designed to manage moderate to severe pain associated with endometriosis. It combines three active ingredients:
Relugolix: A gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) receptor antagonist. It reduces the production of oestrogen, a hormone that can exacerbate endometriosis symptoms.
Estradiol: A form of oestrogen. It helps mitigate potential side effects from low oestrogen levels, such as bone density loss.
Norethisterone: A progestin. It works to balance the hormonal environment, further alleviating endometriosis symptoms.
What are the Financial Implications of this Endometriosis Treatment?
- Prior to this subsidy, the annual cost of Ryeqo® was approximately $2,700, making it a financial burden for many.
- With its inclusion in the PBS, patients will now pay between $92 and $380 per year, depending on their individual circumstances.
- This substantial reduction is expected to benefit around 8,500 Australian women annually.
Expert Insights
Medical professionals and advocacy groups have highly praised this development.
Anusch Yazdani, Medical Director at Endometriosis Australia, highlighted that the listing of this drug would increase its uptake, especially among women facing financial hardships or those residing in rural, remote, and Indigenous communities.
He noted that the cost had been a significant barrier to access. He also mentioned Ryeqo® offers a more convenient oral administration with a favourable side-effect profile compared to some existing treatments. endometriosisaustralia.org
Government's Commitment
This subsidy is part of a broader commitment by the Australian government to enhance women's healthcare. Building upon a previous $573 million investment aimed at improving access to contraceptives, menopause treatments, and endometriosis care, the government continues to address long-standing healthcare challenges faced by women. news.com.au
The inclusion of this drug in the PBS marks a significant advancement in the management of endometriosis in Australia. By alleviating the financial burden, this initiative offers hope. Especially for improved quality of life to thousands of women dealing with this chronic condition.
While this is a step in the right direction, having an experienced Gynaecologist in the field of Endometriosis is a crucial part of your support team.
There is no cure for Endometriosis, not even hysterectomy or menopause relieves a woman of the condition, with symptoms reappearing around 5 years after surgery or into the post-menopause phase.
What else can you do?
Building a team of practitioners around you to help manage pain, symptoms and discomfort can help you feel proactive about having Endometriosis. Adjunct therapies including Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine can offer natural options for self care and mental wellbeing. Any chronic pain condition can wear you down over time, causing stress, anxiety and depression. The wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine gives a holistic and heartfelt approach to your experience.
There are many clinical trials reporting the benefit of Acupuncture for Pain relief. Chinese Herbs can be used to break up clotty period flow and build the blood after your bleed. These are the causative factors in severe period pain and low iron levels due to extreme haemorrhaging and blood loss.
I'm a Chinese Medicine Doctor based on Sydney's Northern Beaches in Brookvale and Warriewood. I have 21 years experience in privtae practice, of which a proportion of my work is based around cycle regulation, pain relief and women's health. If you're looking for more options regarding your health and wellbeing and Endometriosis, reach out to begin a conversation about your story. You can reach me via the website and make an appointment here.
