Treatment for uterine fibroid symptoms recommended by NICE

iStock.com/Charday Penn

By Kaye McIntosh

Up to 30,000 women could benefit from linzagolix, a new treatment option for moderate-to-severe symptoms of uterine fibroids, guidance from the National Institute of Health and Care Excellence has recommended.

The gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist is a single tablet, taken once a day.

Clinical trials show it is effective in reducing the bleeding caused by uterine fibroids, and shrinking the fibroids themselves, compared with placebo.

Linzagolix is recommended for use as a longer-term treatment – more than 6 months – not for people who need short-term treatment, such as before planned uterine fibroid surgery.

Jonathan Benger, NICE chief medical officer, said: “Uterine fibroids can have many debilitating symptoms including pain and heavy menstrual bleeding. If left untreated they can lead to infertility and have a substantial effect on quality of life.

“Linzagolix offers greater flexibility as it can be taken either with or without hormone therapy and means clinicians can provide more personalised care in the treatment of this often debilitating condition.”