Endometriosis Medication Options

Endometriosis is a chronic condition that affects millions of women worldwide. It happens when endometrial tissue grows outside of the uterus, leading to severe pain and other symptoms. While there's no cure for endometriosis, there are several medications used to treat the pain and improve quality of life.

For mild symptoms, doctors may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or naproxen. These are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) that can ease pain and inflammation. If these medications don't provide enough relief, your doctor may prescribe stronger pain medications. 

Hormonal birth control is a common treatment for endometriosis. It works by stopping the heavy menstrual bleeding that often comes with the condition. Your doctor may recommend taking hormonal birth control continuously for 3 or more months to prevent periods. This can help reduce pain and other symptoms. 

If NSAIDs and hormonal birth control don't help manage your pain, your doctor may prescribe a gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogue. This medication blocks estrogen production, causing the endometrial tissue to shrink. It reduces pain in over 80% of women, including those with severe pain. But it can also cause temporary menopause, so it isn't recommended if you're trying to get pregnant. 

These medications aren't routinely used to treat endometriosis, but they may be recommended for some people. They block the production of aromatase, a chemical that increases estrogen levels in the body. While it isn't a primary treatment for endometriosis pain, it may be used along with hormonal therapy. 

As with any medication, there may be side effects and risks associated with endometriosis treatments. Hormone therapy can cause side effects such as weight gain, depression, acne, body hair, and irregular bleeding. GnRH analogues can also cause bone density loss, which may increase the risk of fractures. Work closely with your doctor to develop a treatment plan that works for you.