Novel pharmacological therapies for the treatment of endometriosis. Issue 9 (2nd September 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Buggio, Laura; Dridi, Dhouha; Barbara, Giussy; Merli, Camilla E.M.; Cetera, Giulia Emily; Vercellini, Paolo
• Is Part Of: Expert review of clinical pharmacology. Volume 15:Issue 9(2022)
• Page Start: 1039
• Page End: 1052
• Publication Date: 2022-09-02
• Subjects: elagolix -- endometriosis -- GnRH antagonist -- linzagolix -- relugolix -- SPRM -- SERM; Clinical pharmacology -- Periodicals; 615.105
• DOI: 10.1080/17512433.2022.2117155
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1751-2433

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Introduction: Endometriosis is a chronic, estrogen-dependent, inflammatory disease associated with pelvic pain, infertility, impaired sexual function, and psychological suffering. Therefore, tailored patient management appears of primary importance to address specific issues and identify the appropriate treatment for each woman. Over the years, abundant research has been carried out with the objective to find new therapeutic approaches for this multifaceted disease. Areas covered: This narrative review aims to present the latest advances in the pharmacological management of endometriosis. In particular, the potential role of GnRH antagonists, selective progesterone receptor modulators (SPRMs), and selective estrogen receptors modulators (SERMs) will be discussed. We performed a literature search in PubMed and Embase, and selected the best quality evidence, giving preference to the most recent and definitive original articles and reviews. Expert opinion: Medical therapy represents the cornerstone of endometriosis management, although few advances have been made in the last decade. Most studies have focused on the evaluation of the efficacy and safety of GnRH antagonists (plus add-back therapy in cases of prolonged treatment), which should be used as second-line treatment options in selected cases (i.e. non-responders to first-line treatments). Further studies are needed to identify the ideal treatment for women with endometriosis.