Last Updated on January 14, 2023 by Shabnam Sengupta
Endometriosis is a lifelong condition. So, it is crucial to develop a plan to manage it depending certain factors. These factors include the age of the patient, extent of the disease, the severity of pain and potential plans for pregnancy. In this article, we will learn if medicines can treat and how they can help manage the condition.
Can endometriosis be treated with medicines?
No. Unfortunately, as of now, medicines cannot treat endometriosis completely. However, the available treatment is usually to control the symptoms. For endometriosis, the aim of the treatment options, such as medications, is to alleviate pain and infertility.
However, there are a few studies that challenge that if it can help with infertility. Research on treatment options for infertility due to endometriosis states that medical or hormonal treatment alone has barely any effect. It should only be used in conjunction with assisted reproductive technology (ART). Another research indicates that suppressive medical treatment of endometriosis does not benefit fertility. Additionally, the drug research and development (R&D) for endometriosis has been painfully slow. There is a lack of proper studies in medical treatment for the condition.
How does medical treatment help with endometriosis?
Medical treatments focus on either lowering estrogen or increasing progesterone so that hormonal environments that promote endometriosis can be changed. The hormonal therapies include the combined oral contraceptive pill, progestins, and GnRH-analogues.
The main goal of medical treatment of endometriosis is to pause the growth and activity of its lesions. The most widely utilised medical treatment for endometriosis is gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists and oral contraceptives. Conventional agents also include androgen derivates and progestins. However, these won’t eliminate the disease and are associated with side effects. Endometriosis may reappear after therapy discontinuation in some rare cases. The choice of drug will depend upon the effectiveness, adverse side effects, long-term safety, costs, and if one wants to get pregnant or not. Other than this, pain management is a primary concern. Drugs to manage pain can be helpful, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen.
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