Patient leaflets and SmPCs, drug interaction checker, official dosages and NHS pharmacy opening hours — all in one place.
Patient leaflets and SmPCs, drug interaction checker, official dosages and NHS pharmacy opening hours — all in one place.
The electronic medicines compendium (emc) no longer publishes a Summary of Product Characteristics for this product, which usually means it is no longer marketed in the UK. The patient leaflet below is kept for reference, but the product may not be available.
If you were prescribed this medicine, other products containing Estradiol hemihydrate, Norethisterone acetate, Relugolix may still be available. Do not stop your treatment — ask your pharmacist or GP what to use instead.
for
Ryeqo contains the active substances relugolix, estradiol and norethisterone acetate. It is used to treat moderate to severe symptoms of uterine fibroids (commonly known as myomas), which are non-cancerous tumours of the uterus (womb). symptoms associated with endometriosis in women with a history of previous medical or surgical treatment for their endometriosis (endometriosis is an often painful disorder in which tissue similar to the tissue that normally lines the inside of your uterus – the endometrium grows outside your uterus). Ryeqo is used in adult women (over 18 years of age) before they reach menopause. In some women, uterine fibroids may cause heavy menstrual bleeding (your 'period') and pelvic pain (pain below the belly button). Ryeqo is used for the treatment of your fibroids to stop or reduce bleeding and to decrease pain and pelvic discomfort associated with uterine fibroids. Women with endometriosis can experience pelvic or lower abdominal pain, pain with menstrual periods and pain with intercourse. Ryeqo is used for the treatment of endometriosis to decrease the symptoms due to displaced tissue of the lining of the womb. This medicine contains relugolix, which blocks certain receptors in the brain and this reduces the production of hormones that in turn stimulate the ovaries to produce estradiol and progesterone. When blocked, the levels of estrogen and progesterone circulating in the body are reduced. This medicine also contains two types of female hormones, estradiol which belongs to a group of medicines called estrogens and norethisterone which belongs to a group of medicines called progestogens. The
inclusion of these hormones in Ryeqo maintains a hormonal state similar to the beginning of your menstrual cycle and thus relieves your symptoms while helping to protect the strength of your bones.
2.
e Ryeqo
Do not take Ryeqo Do not take Ryeqo if you have any of the conditions listed below. If you do have any of the conditions listed below, you must tell your doctor: − if you are allergic to relugolix, estradiol, norethisterone acetate or any of the other ingredients of this medicine (listed in section 6). − if you have or previously have had a blood clot in a blood vessel in the legs (deep vein thrombosis), lungs (pulmonary embolism), heart (heart attack), brain (stroke) or any other parts of the body. − if you have or previously have had a disease caused by blood clots in the arteries, such as a heart attack, stroke or angina. − if you have a blood clotting disorder (such as protein C deficiency, protein S deficiency, antithrombin-III deficiency, or Factor V Leiden). − if you have osteoporosis. − if you suffer from headaches with focal neurological symptoms such as paralysis or loss of muscle control, or migraines with visual disturbance. − if you have any type of cancer which might be made worse by exposure to female sex hormones, such as cancer of the breast or the genital organs. − if you have or ever had liver tumours. − if you have or ever had a liver disease and your liver function tests have not returned to normal. − if you are pregnant or if you think you might be pregnant or if you are breastfeeding. − if you have any genital bleeding of unknown origin. − if you are taking hormonal contraception (for example birth control pills) and unwilling to discontinue its use. If any of the above conditions appear for the first time while taking Ryeqo, stop taking it at once and consult your doctor immediately. If you are not sure about any of the points above, talk to your doctor before taking Ryeqo. Warnings and precautions Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking Ryeqo. You should know that most women have reduced or no menstrual bleeding (period) during treatment and for a few weeks afterwards. Your doctor will discuss your medical and family history with you. Your doctor will also need to check your blood pressure and make sure you are not pregnant. You may also need a physical examination and additional checks, such as breast examination and a scan to measure how strong your bones are, that will be specific to your medical needs and/or concerns. Stop taking Ryeqo and get urgent medical attention if you notice: − any of the conditions mentioned in the "Do not take Ryeqo" section. − if you notice signs of liver disease: − yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes (jaundice). − nausea or vomiting, fever, severe tiredness. − dark urine, itching or upper abdominal pain. − a large rise in your blood pressure (symptoms may be headache, tiredness, dizziness). − migraine for the first time or unusually bad headaches occurring more often than before. − if you notice possible signs of a blood clot that may mean you are suffering from a clot in the leg (i.e. deep vein thrombosis), or in the lung (i.e. pulmonary embolism), a heart attack or a 2
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stroke. For a description of the symptoms of these serious conditions please go to 'Ryeqo and risk of blood clots'. if you become pregnant.
Tell your doctor if any of the following conditions apply to you: − if you have one or more of the risk factors for developing a blood clot listed below. − if you have high blood pressure. − if you have osteoporosis. − if you suffer from migraines. − if you think you might be pregnant. Treatment with Ryeqo usually leads to a significant reduction or may even stop your menstrual bleeding (your 'period'), making it difficult to recognise pregnancy. − if you have or previously suffered from depression. − if you have renal (kidney) disease. Ryeqo and risk of blood clots The use of other medicines containing an estrogen and a progestogen increases the risk of blood clots. The risk of blood clots with Ryeqo has not been established. Ryeqo reduces the estrogen to levels similar to those at the beginning of your normal menstrual cycle. Factors that can increase your risk of a blood clot in your vein and/or artery: − as you get older (particularly above about 35 year of age). − if you are overweight (body mass index > 30 kg/m2). − if you have had major surgery or prolonged time off your feet (e.g. your leg is in a cast). − if you have recently given birth. − if anyone in your close family has had a blood clot in the leg, lung or other organ, a heart attack or a stroke at a young age (e.g. below the age of 50 years). − if you smoke. − if you have a problem with your heart (valve disorder, disturbance of the rhythm called atrial fibrillation). − if you have diabetes. − if you have certain medical conditions such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE – a disease affecting your natural defence system), sickle cell disease (an inherited disease of the red blood cells), Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis (chronic inflammatory bowel diseases), or cancer. The risk of developing a blood clot increases the more factors you have. The symptoms of a blood clot will depend on where the blood clot has occurred. Symptoms of a blood clot in your leg (deep vein thrombosis; DVT) The symptoms of a blood clot in the leg known as a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can include: − swelling in your leg and/or foot or along a vein in your leg. − pain or tenderness in your leg which feels worse when you stand up or are walking. − increased heat in the affected leg with red or discoloured skin. Symptoms of a blood clot in your lung (pulmonary embolism; PE) The symptoms of a blood clot in the lung known as a pulmonary embolism (PE) can include: − a sudden onset of unexplained shortness of breath or rapid breathing. − sudden coughing which may be associated to a sharp pain in your chest. − coughing up of blood. − severe dizziness or feeling lightheaded. − a rapid or irregular heartbeat. Symptoms of a heart attack The symptoms of a heart attack, also known as a myocardial infarction, may be temporary and can include: 3
− − − − − −
pain, discomfort, pressure, heaviness, sensation of squeezing or fullness in your chest, arm, or below your breastbone. discomfort radiating to your back, jaw, throat, arm, stomach. feeling of being full, having indigestion or choking. sweating, nausea, vomiting or dizziness. extreme weakness, anxiety, or shortness of breath. rapid or irregular heartbeats.
Symptoms of a stroke The symptoms of a stroke can include: − a sudden numbness or weakness in your face, arm of leg, especially on one side of your body. − sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination. − sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding others. − sudden trouble seeing in one or both of your eyes. − sudden, severe or prolonged headache with no known cause. − loosing consciousness or fainting with or without a seizure. Surgery If you are going to have surgery, tell the surgeon that you are taking Ryeqo. Liver tumours or liver disease In rare cases liver tumours or liver disease has been reported in women taking estrogens and progestogens. If you experience any symptoms of jaundice contact your doctor for further medical advice. Renal (kidney) impairment If you experience any decrease in urine production or notice any fluid retention causing swelling in your legs, ankles or feet, please contact your doctor for further medical advice. Change in menstrual bleeding pattern (your 'period') Treatment with Ryeqo usually leads to a significant reduction or may even stop your menstrual bleeding (your 'period') within the first 30 days of treatment. However, if you continue to experience excessive bleeding, tell your doctor. Depression If you experience mood changes or any depressive symptoms contact your doctor for further medical advice. Increased blood pressure In rare cases treatment with Ryeqo may lead to small increases in blood pressure. If you experience any symptoms of increased blood pressure, contact your doctor for further medical advice. Uterine fibroid prolapse and expulsion Uterine fibroids may develop anywhere within the muscular wall of the uterus, including the submucosa, a thin layer of tissue in the uterus. In some women, the uterine fibroid may protrude or slip through the cervix into the vagina and may lead to significant worsening of uterine bleeding or pain. If you re-experience severe uterine bleeding after your symptoms have improved while being treated with Ryeqo, contact your doctor for medical advice. Gallbladder disorders Some women taking estrogen and progestogen hormones including Ryeqo have reported gallbladder disorders (gallstones or inflammation of your gallbladder). If you experience unusually severe pain below your rib cage or in your upper abdomen contact your doctor for medical advice. Children and adolescents Ryeqo should not be taken by children under 18 years of age since the safety and efficacy of Ryeqo has not been established in this age group. 4
Other medicines and Ryeqo Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking, have recently taken or might take any other medicines. Talk to your doctor if you are taking any of the medicines listed below, as these medicines can affect Ryeqo or be affected by Ryeqo: − Certain medicines used to treat epilepsy (e.g. carbamazepine, topiramate, phenytoin, phenobarbital, primidone, oxcarbazepine, felbamate). − Certain medicines used to treat human immunodeficiency virus infection/ acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) (e.g. ritonavir, efavirenz). − Certain medicines used to treat Hepatitis C virus (HCV) (e.g. boceprevir, sofosbuvir, velpatasvir, voxilaprevir, telaprevir, glecaprevir). − Certain medicines used to treat fungal infections (e.g. ketoconazole, itraconazole, fluconazole, griseofulvin). − Certain medicines used to treat bacterial infections (e.g. rifampicin, rifabutin, clarithromycin, erythromycin, gentamicin, tetracycline, griseofulvin). − Certain medicine used to treat high blood pressure in the arteries in the lung (e.g. bosentan). − Certain medicines used to treat high blood pressure (e.g. diltiazem, carvedilol, verapamil). − Certain medicines used to treat irregular heartbeats (e.g. amiodarone, dronedarone, propafenone, quinidine, verapamil). − Certain medicines used to treat angina (e.g. ranolazine, carvedilol, verapamil). − Certain medicines to prevent organ rejection after transplantion (e.g. cyclosporine). − Herbal remedies containing St John's wort (Hypericum perforatum). Pregnancy and breast-feeding Do not take Ryeqo if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. If you think you may be pregnant or are planning to have a baby, ask your doctor for advice before taking this medicine. If you become pregnant, stop taking Ryeqo and contact your doctor. Ryeqo stops ovulation and thus you are not likely to become pregnant while using Ryeqo if used as recommended. Ovulation and menstrual bleeding will return rapidly after discontinuing Ryeqo and alternative birth control needs to be started immediately after discontinuation of Ryeqo. Depending on when in your cycle you start taking Ryeqo, it may take time to obtain the full inhibition of ovulation by Ryeqo; therefore, nonhormonal birth control (e.g. condoms) should be used for the first month after starting Ryeqo. If you miss two or more tablets in a row, nonhormonal birth control (e.g. condoms) should be used for the next 7 days of treatment. Driving and using machines Ryeqo has no known effect on the ability to drive and use machines. Laboratory tests If you need a blood or urine test, tell your doctor or the laboratory staff that you are taking Ryeqo because this medicine can affect the results of some tests. Ryeqo contains lactose If you have been told by your doctor that you have an intolerance to some sugars, contact your doctor before taking this medicine.
3.
Ryeqo
Always take this medicine exactly as your doctor has told you. Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure. 5
The recommended dose is one tablet per day. The tablet must be taken orally every day, at about the same time, with or without food with a little liquid. It is recommended that you start taking Ryeqo within the first 5 days after the start of bleeding due to your period. If you start at another time of your menstrual cycle, you may initially experience irregular or heavier bleeding. If you take more Ryeqo than you should There have been no reports of serious harmful effects from taking several doses of this medicine at once. Large doses of estrogen may cause nausea and vomiting, and vaginal bleeding. If you have taken too many Ryeqo tablets ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice. If you forget to take Ryeqo If you miss one tablet, take it as soon as you remember and then resume taking your tablet the next day as usual. Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten tablet. If you miss two or more tablets in a row, consult with your doctor and use a nonhormonal contraceptive (e.g. condoms) for the next 7 days of treatment. If you stop taking Ryeqo If you would like to stop taking Ryeqo, talk to your doctor first. Your doctor will explain the effects of stopping treatment and discuss other possibilities with you. If you have any further questions on the use of this medicine, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
4.
Like all medicines, this medicine can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Get urgent medical attention if you get any of the following signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction: − swelling of your lips, face or throat. The following side effects have been reported with Ryeqo and are listed below according to the frequency which they occur. Very common side effects (may affect more than 1 in 10 people) − headache, − hot flush. Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people): − irritability, − decreased interest in sex, − dizziness, − nausea, − hair loss, − increased sweating, − night sweats, − joint pain, − excessive, irregular, or prolonged bleeding from the womb (uterine bleeding), − dryness of the genital area. − −
Uncommon side effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people): indigestion, 6
− − − −
hives (urticaria), angioedema (rapid swelling of the mucous membranes or the skin that may occur in the face, mouth, tongue, abdomen or arms and legs), a lump in the breast tissue (breast cyst), uterine myoma expulsion (fibroid comes out either completely or partially through the vagina, usually with increased bleeding from the vagina).
Reporting of side effects If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. This includes any possible side effects not listed in this leaflet. You can also report side effects directly: for United Kingdom (Great Britain and Northern Ireland) Yellow Card Scheme Website: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store for Ireland HPRA Pharmacovigilance Website: www.hpra.ie By reporting side effects you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.
5.
Ryeqo
Keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children. Do not use this medicine after the expiry date which is stated on both the outer carton and bottle after EXP. The expiry date refers to the last day of that month. This medicine does not require any special storage condition. Do not throw away any medicines via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to throw away medicines you no longer use. These measures will help protect the environment.
6.
What Ryeqo contains − The active substances are relugolix, estradiol and norethisterone acetate. One film-coated tablet contains 40 mg relugolix, 1 mg estradiol and 0.5 mg norethisterone acetate. − The other ingredients are lactose monohydrate, mannitol (E421), sodium starch glycolate, hydroxypropyl cellulose (E463), magnesium stearate (E572), hypromellose type 2910 (E464), titanium dioxide (E171), triacetin (E1518), iron oxide yellow (E172). What Ryeqo looks like and contents of the pack Ryeqo is light yellow to yellow, round, film-coated tablet of 8 mm with "415" on one side, and plain faced on the other side. It is available in high-density polyethylene (HDPE) bottles with desiccant, closed with an induction-sealed, child-resistant polypropylene cap or PVC/Al blister with desiccant packed in PET/Al/PE triplex foil sachet. Each box contains one or three bottles with 28 tablets; or two or six blisters with 14 tablets. Not all pack sizes may be marketed. Marketing Authorisation Holder Gedeon Richter Plc. Gyömrői út 19-21. 1103 Budapest 7
Hungary Manufacturer (batch release site) Gedeon Richter Plc. Gyömrői út 19-21. 1103 Budapest Hungary This leaflet was last revised in July 2024. Other sources of information Detailed information on this medicine is available on the European Medicines Agency web site: http://www.ema.europa.eu.
8
Ryeqo 40mg/1mg/0.5mg film-coated tablets comes as tablet containing 40mg / 1mg / 0.5mg. Always follow the dose your doctor or pharmacist has given you, and read the leaflet that comes with the medicine.
The active substance in Ryeqo 40mg/1mg/0.5mg film-coated tablets is estradiol hemihydrate, norethisterone acetate, relugolix.
This leaflet reproduces the patient information leaflet approved for Ryeqo 40mg/1mg/0.5mg film-coated tablets, as published on the electronic medicines compendium (emc). The version printed inside your medicine’s packaging is the one that applies to you.
Whether a medicine is available over the counter or on prescription only depends on its licence. Check the leaflet, or ask your pharmacist — they can tell you straight away.
The text above reproduces the patient information leaflet approved for this medicine, restructured for easier reading.
Ryeqo is indicated in adult women of reproductive age for:
- treatment of moderate to severe symptoms of uterine fibroids,
- symptomatic treatment of endometriosis in women with a history of previous medical or surgical treatment for their endometriosis (see section 5.1).
Ryeqo treatment should be initiated and supervised by a physician experienced in the diagnosis and treatment of uterine fibroids and/or endometriosis.
Posology
One tablet of Ryeqo must be taken once daily, at about the same time with or without food. Tablets should be taken with some liquid as needed (see section 5.2).
BMD loss and osteoporosis
A dual X ray absorptiometry (DXA) scan is recommended after 1 year of treatment. In patients with risk factors for osteoporosis or bone loss, a DXA scan is recommended prior to starting Ryeqo treatment (see section 4.4).
Initiation of treatment
Pregnancy must be ruled out prior to initiating treatment with Ryeqo.
When starting treatment, the first tablet must be taken within 5 days of the onset of menstrual bleeding. If treatment is initiated on another day of the menstrual cycle, irregular and/or heavy bleeding may initially occur.
Ryeqo can be taken without interruption. Discontinuation should be considered when the patient enters menopause, as the symptoms of both uterine fibroids and endometriosis are known to regress when menopause begins.
Contraceptive properties of Ryeqo
Any hormonal contraception needs to be stopped prior to initiation of treatment, as concomitant use of hormonal contraceptives is contraindicated (see section 4.3).
Nonhormonal methods of contraception must be used for at least 1 month after initiation of Ryeqo.
After at least one month of Ryeqo use, Ryeqo inhibits ovulation in women taking the recommended dose and provides adequate contraception.
Women of childbearing potential must be advised that ovulation will return rapidly after discontinuing treatment. Therefore, a discussion with the patient, regarding appropriate contraceptive methods, must therefore take place prior to discontinuing treatment and alternative contraception needs to be started immediately after discontinuation of treatment (see section 4.4).
Missed tablets
If one tablet is missed, the missed tablet must be taken as soon as possible and then continue the next day by taking a tablet at the usual time.
If two or more tablets are missed for consecutive days, contraceptive protection may be reduced. A nonhormonal method of contraception is to be used for the next 7 days of treatment (see section 4.6).
Special populations
Elderly
There is no relevant use of Ryeqo in the elderly population in the indications.
Renal impairment
No dose adjustment for Ryeqo in patients with mild, moderate, or severe renal impairment is required (see section 5.2).
Hepatic impairment
No dose adjustment for Ryeqo in patients with mild or moderate hepatic impairment is required (see section 5.2). Ryeqo is contraindicated in women with severe liver disease if liver function values have not returned to normal (see section 4.3).
Paediatric population
There is no relevant use of Ryeqo in children aged under 18 years for the treatment of symptoms of uterine fibroids.
The safety and efficacy of Ryeqo in children aged under 18 years for the treatment of endometriosis has not been established. No data are available.
Method of administration
Oral use.
Ryeqo can be taken with or without food. Tablets should be taken with some liquid as needed.
− Hypersensitivity to the active substance(s) or to any of the excipients listed in section 6.1.
− Venous thromboembolic disorder, past or present (e.g. deep venous thrombosis, pulmonary embolism).
− Arterial thromboembolic cardiovascular disease, past or present (e.g. myocardial infarction, cerebrovascular accident, ischemic heart disease).
− Known thrombophilic disorders (e.g. protein C, protein S or antithrombin deficiency or activated protein C (APC)-resistance, including Factor V Leiden (see section 4.4)).
− Known osteoporosis.
− Headaches with focal neurological symptoms or migraine headaches with aura (see section 4.4).
− Known or suspected sex -steroid influenced malignancies (e.g. of the genital organs or the breasts).
− Presence or history of liver tumours (benign or malignant) (see section 4.4).
− Presence or history of severe hepatic disease as long as liver function values have not returned to normal.
− Pregnancy or suspected pregnancy and breastfeeding (see section 4.6).
− Genital bleeding of unknown aetiology.
− Concomitant use of hormonal contraceptives.
Ryeqo must only be prescribed after careful diagnosis.
Medical examination/consultation
Prior to the initiation or reinstitution of Ryeqo, a complete medical history (including family history) must be taken. Blood pressure must be measured and a physical examination must be performed guided by the contraindications (see section 4.3) and warnings for use (see section 4.4). During treatment, periodic check-ups must be carried out according to standard clinical practice.
Any hormonal contraception needs to be stopped prior to initiation of Ryeqo (see section 4.3). Nonhormonal methods of contraception must be used for at least 1 month after initiation of treatment. Pregnancy must be ruled out prior to administering or re-initiation of Ryeqo.
Risk of thromboembolic disorders
The use of medicinal products containing an estrogen and a progestogen increases the risk of arterial or venous thromboembolism (ATE or VTE) compared with no use.
The risk of ATE/VTE with Ryeqo has not been established. Ryeqo contains doses of estrogen and progestogen lower than the doses used in combined hormonal contraceptives and are provided in combination with relugolix, a gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) receptor antagonist that suppresses ovarian production of estrogen and progesterone. Estradiol levels with Ryeqo are in the range observed in the early follicular phase of the menstrual cycle (see section 5.1).
If an ATE/VTE occurs, treatment must be discontinued immediately. Ryeqo is contraindicated in women with past or present venous or arterial thromboembolic disease (see section 4.3).
Risk factors for venous thromboembolism (VTE)
The risk for venous thromboembolic complications in women using a product with an estrogen and progestogen may increase substantially in a woman with additional risk factors, particularly if there are multiple risk factors (see Table 1 below).
Table 1. Risk factors for VTE
Risk factor
Comment
Obesity (body mass index [BMI] over 30 kg/m2)
Risk increases substantially as BMI rises.
Prolonged immobilisation, major surgery or major trauma
In these situations, it is advisable to discontinue use of the medicinal product (in the case of elective surgery at least four weeks in advance) and not resume until two weeks after complete remobilisation.
Positive family history (VTE) ever in a sibling or parent especially at a relatively early age e.g. before 50 years.
If a hereditary predisposition is suspected, the woman must be referred to a specialist for advice before using the medicinal product.
Other medical conditions associated with VTE
Cancer, systemic lupus erythematosus, haemolytic uraemic syndrome, chronic inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis) and sickle cell disease.
Increasing age
Particularly above 35 years.
The increased risk of thromboembolism in pregnancy, and particularly the 6-week period of the puerperium, must be considered (for information on “Pregnancy and lactation” see section 4.6).
Symptoms of VTE (deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism)
In the event of symptoms, women must be advised to get urgent medical attention and to inform the physician that she is taking Ryeqo.
Symptoms of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can include:
− unilateral swelling of the leg and/or foot or along a vein in the leg;
− pain or tenderness in the leg which may be felt only when standing or walking;
− increased warmth in the affected leg; red or discoloured skin on the leg.
Symptoms of pulmonary embolism (PE) can include:
− sudden onset of unexplained shortness of breath or rapid breathing;
− sudden coughing which may be associated with haemoptysis;
− sharp chest pain;
− severe light headedness or dizziness;
− rapid or irregular heartbeat.
Some of these symptoms (e.g. “shortness of breath”, “coughing”) are non-specific and might be misinterpreted as more common or less severe events (e.g. respiratory tract infections).
Risk factors for arterial thromboembolism (ATE)
Epidemiological studies have associated the use of estrogen/progestogen products with an increased risk for arterial thromboembolism (myocardial infarction) or for cerebrovascular accident (e.g. transient ischaemic attack, stroke). Arterial thromboembolic events may be fatal.
The risk for arterial thromboembolic complications in women using a product with an estrogen and progestogen may increase substantially in a woman with additional risk factors, particularly if there are multiple risk factors (see Table 2 below).
Table 2. Risk factors for ATE
Risk factor
Comment
Increasing age
Particularly above 35 years.
Smoking
Women are to be advised not to smoke if they wish to use the medicinal product.
Hypertension
Obesity (body mass index [BMI] over 30 kg/m2)
Risk increases substantially as BMI increases.
Positive family history (ATE) ever in a sibling or parent especially at relatively early age e.g. before 50 years.
If a hereditary predisposition is suspected, the woman must be referred to a specialist for advice before using the medicinal product.
Migraine
An increase in frequency or severity of migraine during use of the medicinal product (which may be prodromal of a cerebrovascular event) may be a reason for immediate discontinuation.
Other medical conditions associated with adverse vascular events
Diabetes mellitus, hyperhomocysteinaemia, valvular heart disease and atrial fibrillation, dyslipoproteinaemia and systemic lupus erythematosus.
Symptoms of ATE
In the event of symptoms, women must be advised to get urgent medical attention and to inform the physician that she is taking Ryeqo.
Symptoms of a cerebrovascular accident can include:
− sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body;
− sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination;
− sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding;
− sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes;
− sudden, severe or prolonged headache with no known cause;
− loss of consciousness or fainting with or without seizure.
Temporary symptoms suggest the event is a transient ischaemic attack.
Symptoms of myocardial infarction can include:
− pain, discomfort, pressure, heaviness, sensation of squeezing or fullness in the chest, arm, or below the breastbone;
− discomfort radiating to the back, jaw, throat, arm, stomach;
− feeling of being full, having indigestion or choking;
− sweating, nausea, vomiting or dizziness;
− extreme weakness, anxiety, or shortness of breath;
− rapid or irregular heartbeats.
Risk of bone loss
Following an initial non-clinically relevant decrease in bone mineral density (BMD), it stabilized after 12-24 weeks of treatment and thereafter remained stable (as measured up to 2 years). The mean decrease in BMD during the first year of treatment with Ryeqo was 0.69%.
However, decreases of > 3% were seen in 21% of the patients. Therefore, a DXA scan is recommended after the first 52 weeks of treatment and as considered appropriate thereafter. Depending on the degree of change in BMD, the benefit and risks of Ryeqo may need to be reconsidered.
The benefits and risks of Ryeqo in patients with a history of a low trauma fracture or other risk factors for osteoporosis or bone loss, including those taking medications that may affect BMD, should be considered prior to initiating treatment. It is recommended to perform a DXA scan before commencing treatment with Ryeqo in these patients. Ryeqo should not be initiated if the risk associated with BMD loss exceeds the potential benefit of the treatment.
Liver tumours or liver disease
Ryeqo is contraindicated in women with liver tumours, benign or malignant; or liver disease as long as liver function values have not returned to normal (see section 4.3). Treatment must be discontinued if jaundice develops.
In clinical trials, asymptomatic transient elevations of serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) at least 3 times the upper limit of the reference range occurred in < 1% of participants treated with Ryeqo. Acute liver test abnormalities may necessitate the discontinuation of Ryeqo use until the liver tests return to normal.
Renal impairment
The exposure to relugolix is increased in patients with moderate or severe renal impairment (see section 5.2), although no dose adjustment is required (see section 4.2). The amount of relugolix removed by haemodialysis is unknown.
Change in menstrual bleeding pattern
Patients must be informed that treatment with Ryeqo usually leads to a reduction in menstrual blood loss or amenorrhoea within the first 2 months of treatment.
Women receiving Ryeqo, for the treatment of uterine fibroids, were likely to have amenorrhoea (51.6%) or cyclic bleeding (15.4%), with the rest (31.9%) having an irregular bleeding pattern at the Week 24 assessment. Furthermore, at the Week 52 and Week 104 assessments 70.6%, and 58.3% of women respectively receiving Ryeqo were likely to have amenorrhoea.
For those patients with endometriosis, the majority of patients (65.2%) were likely to have amenorrhoea at the Week 24 assessment, with a subsequent 76.6% at the Week 52 assessment and 82.3% at the Week 104 assessment.
In case of persistent excessive bleeding, patients must notify their physician.
Contraceptive properties of Ryeqo
Ryeqo provides adequate contraception when used for at least 1 month (see section 4.2). However, women of childbearing potential must be advised that ovulation will return rapidly after discontinuing treatment. Therefore, alternative contraception needs to be started immediately after discontinuation of treatment.
Reduced ability to recognise pregnancy
Women who take Ryeqo commonly experience amenorrhoea or a reduction in the amount, intensity, or duration of menstrual bleeding.
This change in menstrual bleeding pattern may reduce the ability to recognise the occurrence of a pregnancy in a timely manner. Perform pregnancy testing if pregnancy is suspected and discontinue treatment, if pregnancy is confirmed.
Uterine fibroid prolapse or expulsion
Submucosal uterine fibroids are common (15% to 20% of women with uterine fibroids) and some may prolapse through the cervix or be expelled, sometimes with transient worsening of uterine bleeding. Women known or suspected to have submucosal uterine fibroids must be advised regarding the possibility of uterine fibroid prolapse or expulsion when treated with Ryeqo, and should contact their physician if severe bleeding reoccurs after bleeding symptoms have improved while being treated with Ryeqo.
Depression
Carefully observe women with a history of depression and discontinue Ryeqo if depression recurs to a serious degree. Data are limited on the association of Ryeqo or other products containing estradiol and progestins with onset of depression or exacerbation of existing depression. Women must be advised to contact their physician in case of mood changes and depressive symptoms, including shortly after initiating the treatment.
Hypertension
Although small increases in blood pressure have been reported in women taking Ryeqo, clinically relevant increases are rare. However, if sustained clinically significant hypertension develops during the use of Ryeqo, hypertension should be treated, and the benefit of continued therapy should be assessed. If treatment with Ryeqo is discontinued, use may be resumed if normotensive values can be achieved with antihypertensive treatment.
Gallbladder disease
Conditions such as gallbladder disease, cholelithiasis and cholecystitis have been reported to occur or worsen with estrogen and progestogen use, including Ryeqo, but the evidence of an association with Ryeqo is inconclusive.
Laboratory tests
The use of estrogens and progestogens may influence the results of certain laboratory tests, including biochemical parameters of liver, thyroid, adrenal and renal function, plasma levels of (carrier) proteins, e.g. corticosteroid binding globulin and lipid/lipoprotein fractions, parameters of carbohydrate metabolism and parameters of coagulation and fibrinolysis. Changes generally remain within the normal laboratory range.
Lactose
Patients with rare hereditary problems of galactose intolerance, total lactase deficiency or glucose-galactose malabsorption should not take this medicinal product.
Recommendations regarding interactions with Ryeqo are based on evaluations of interactions for the individual components.
Potential for other medicinal products to affect the components of Ryeqo
Relugolix
Oral P-glycoprotein (P-gp) inhibitors:
Concomitant use of Ryeqo with oral P-gp inhibitors is not recommended. Relugolix is a substrate of P-gp (see section 5.2) and in an interaction study with erythromycin, a P-gp and moderate cytochrome P450 (CYP) 3A4 inhibitor, the area under the curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of relugolix were increased by 4.1-fold and 3.8-fold, respectively. Concomitant use of P-gp inhibitors may increase the exposure of relugolix, including certain anti-infective medicinal products (e.g. erythromycin, clarithromycin, gentamicin, tetracycline), anti-fungal medicinal products (ketoconazole, itraconazole), antihypertensive medicinal products (e.g. carvedilol, verapamil), antiarrhythmic medicinal products (e.g. amiodarone, dronedarone, propafenone, quinidine), antianginal medicinal products (e.g. ranolazine), cyclosporine, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or hepatitis C virus (HCV) protease inhibitors (e.g. ritonavir, telaprevir). If concomitant use with once or twice daily oral P-gp inhibitors is unavoidable (e.g. azithromycin), take Ryeqo first, and separate dosing with the P-gp inhibitor by at least 6 hours and monitor patients more frequently for adverse reactions.
Strong cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) and/or P-gp inducers:
Co-administration of Ryeqo with strong CYP3A4 and/or P-gp inducers is not recommended. In a clinical interaction study with rifampicin, a strong CYP3A4 and P-gp inducer, the Cmax and AUC of relugolix were reduced by 23% and 55%, respectively. Medicinal products that cause strong CYP3A4 and/or P-gp induction, such as anticonvulsants (e.g. carbamazepine, topiramate, phenytoin, phenobarbital, primidone, oxcarbazepine, felbamate), anti-infective medicinal products (e.g. rifampicin, rifabutin, griseofulvin); St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum); bosentan and HIV or HCV protease inhibitors (e.g. ritonavir, boceprevir, telaprevir) and non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (e.g. efavirenz), may reduce the plasma concentrations of relugolix and may result in a decrease in therapeutic effects.
CYP3A4 inhibitors
Concomitant use of relugolix with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors devoid of P-gp inhibition (voriconazole) did not increase the exposure of relugolix in a clinically-meaningful manner. Furthermore, in a clinical interaction study, concomitant administration with atorvastatin, a weak CYP3A4 enzyme inhibitor, did not change the exposure of relugolix in a clinically meaningful manner.
Effect of co-administered medicinal products on relugolix exposure from clinical trials and recommendations are summarised in Table 3.
Table 3. Effect of co-administered medicinal products on relugolix exposure (AUC0-∞, Cmax; in order of decreasing magnitude) from clinical trials and recommendations
Interacting drug dose regimen
Relugolix dose regimen
Change in relugolix AUC0-∞
Change in relugolix Cmax
Recommendation
erythromycin 500 mg QID, multiple doses
40 mg single dose
4.1 -fold ↑
3.8 -fold ↑
Concomitant use of Ryeqo with erythromycin and other oral P-gp inhibitors is not recommended.
If concomitant use with once or twice daily oral P-gp inhibitors is unavoidable (e.g. azithromycin), take Ryeqo first, followed by administration of the P-gp inhibitor at least 6 hours thereafter and monitor patients more frequently for adverse reactions.
azithromycin 500 mg single dose
120 mg single dose**
1.5 -fold ↑
1.6 -fold ↑
azithromycin 500 mg single dose 6 hours after administration of relugolix
1.4 -fold ↑
1.3 -fold ↑
voriconazole 200 mg BID, multiple doses
40 mg single dose
51% ↑
21% ↑
No dose modifications recommended for coadministration of relugolix and CYP3A4 inhibitors devoid of P-gp inhibition.
fluconazole 200 mg QD, multiple doses
40 mg single dose
19% ↑
44% ↑
atorvastatin 80 mg QD, multiple doses
40 mg single dose
5% ↓
22% ↓
rifampicin 600 mg QD, multiple doses
40 mg single dose
55% ↓
23% ↓
Coadministration of Ryeqo with rifampicin and other combined P-gp and strong CYP3A4 inducers is not recommended as the efficacy of the relugolix component of Ryeqo could be reduced.
*Data given as x-fold change represent a ratio between co-administration and relugolix alone. Data given as % change represent % difference relative to relugolix alone.
**For further details check Orgovyx SmPC, effect for the 40 mg dose not investigated, but expected to be larger.
Increase is indicated as “↑”, decrease as “↓”.
AUC = area under curve; Cmax= maximum concentration; QD = once daily; BID = twice daily; TID = three times daily; QID = four times daily
Estradiol and norethisterone acetate
CYP3A4 inhibitors:
Medicinal products that inhibit the activity of hepatic drug-metabolising enzymes, e.g. ketoconazole, may increase circulating concentrations of the estrogen and norethisterone components in Ryeqo.
CYP enzyme inducers:
The metabolism of estrogens and progestogens may be increased by concomitant use of substances known to induce drug-metabolising enzymes, specifically cytochrome P450 enzymes, such as anticonvulsants (e.g. phenobarbital, phenytoin, carbamazepine) and anti-infectives (e.g. rifampicin, rifabutin, nevirapine, efavirenz).
Ritonavir, telaprevir and nelfinavir, although known as strong inhibitors, are also inducers and may decrease the exposure of estrogens and progestogens.
Herbal preparations containing St John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum) may induce the metabolism of estrogens and progestogens. Clinically, an increase in estrogen metabolism may lead to decreased effectiveness with regard to protection of bone loss. Therefore, long-term concomitant use of liver enzyme inducers with Ryeqo is not recommended.
Potential for the components of Ryeqo to affect other medicinal products
Relugolix:
Relugolix is a weak inducer of CYP3A4. After co-administration with daily 40 -mg doses of relugolix, the AUC and Cmax of midazolam, a sensitive CYP3A4 substrate, were decreased by 18% and 26%, respectively. However, based on the clinical study with midazolam, clinically meaningful effects of relugolix on other CYP3A4 substrates are not expected.
Relugolix is an inhibitor of breast cancer resistant protein (BCRP) in vitro, therefore, an interaction study was conducted with rosuvastatin, a BCRP and organic anion transporting polypeptide 1B1 (OATP1B1) substrate. After co-administration with daily 40-mg doses of relugolix, the AUC and Cmax of rosuvastatin were decreased by 13% and 23%, respectively. The effects are not considered clinically meaningful and therefore no dose-adjustments of rosuvastatin upon concomitant use are recommended. Clinical effects of Ryeqo on other BCRP substrates have not been evaluated and the relevance for other BCRP substrates is unknown.
Relugolix may cause saturation of intestinal P-gp at the 40 mg dose, as relugolix exhibits more than dose proportional pharmacokinetics over the dose range of 10-120 mg, which could result in increased absorption of co-administered medicines that are sensitive substrates of P-gp. No clinically significant differences in the pharmacokinetics of dabigatran etexilate (P-gp substrate) were observed upon co-administration with relugolix, clinically meaningful effects of relugolix on other P-gp substrates are not expected.
Estradiol and norethisterone acetate:
Estrogen and progestogen medicinal products may affect the metabolism of certain other active substances. Accordingly, plasma concentrations may either increase (e.g. cyclosporin) or decrease (e.g. lamotrigine) with use of Ryeqo. Dose adjustment of these medicinal products may be necessary.
Women of childbearing potential
Ryeqo inhibits ovulation in women taking the recommended dose and provides adequate contraception. A nonhormonal contraceptive method is recommended for use for 1 month after initiation of treatment and for 7 days following 2 or more missed consecutive doses. Concomitant use of hormonal contraceptives is contraindicated (see section 4.3).
Women of childbearing potential must be advised that ovulation will return rapidly after discontinuing Ryeqo. A discussion with the patient, regarding appropriate contraceptive methods, must therefore take place prior to discontinuing treatment and alternative contraception needs to be started immediately after discontinuation of treatment (see section 4.4).
Pregnancy
There is a limited amount of data from the use of relugolix in pregnant women. Studies in animals have shown that exposure to relugolix early in pregnancy may increase the risk of early pregnancy loss (see section 5.3). Based on the pharmacological effects, an adverse effect on pregnancy cannot be excluded.
Ryeqo is contraindicated during pregnancy (see section 4.3). Discontinue use of treatment if pregnancy occurs.
There appears to be little or no increased risk of harmful effects in children born to women who have used estrogens and progestogens as an oral contraceptive inadvertently during early pregnancy. The increased risk of VTE during the postpartum period must be considered when re-starting Ryeqo (see section 4.4).
Breast-feeding
Results from nonclinical studies indicate that relugolix is excreted into the milk of lactating rats (see section 5.3). No data are available regarding the presence of relugolix or its metabolites in human milk or its effect on the breastfed infant. Detectable amounts of estrogen and progestogens have been identified in the breast milk of women receiving estrogen plus progestogen therapy. An effect on breastfeeding newborns/infants cannot be excluded.
Breastfeeding is contraindicated during the use of Ryeqo (see section 4.3) and for 2 weeks following discontinuation of Ryeqo.
Fertility
Ryeqo inhibits ovulation and often causes amenorrhoea. Ovulation and menstrual bleeding will return rapidly after discontinuing treatment (see section 5.1).
Ryeqo has no or negligible influence on the ability to drive and use machines.
Summary of the safety profile
The most frequent adverse drug reactions, in patients being treated for uterine fibroids or endometriosis, were headache (13.2%), hot flush (10.3%) and uterine bleeding (5.8%).
Adverse drug reactions listed in Table 4 are classified according to frequency and system organ class. Within each frequency grouping, adverse drug reactions are presented in order of decreasing seriousness. Frequencies are defined as very common (≥ 1/10), common (≥ 1/100 to < 1/10), uncommon (≥ 1/1,000 to < 1/100), rare (≥ 1/10,000 to < 1/1,000), very rare (< 1/10,000), and not known (cannot be estimated from available data).
Tabulated list of adverse drug reactions
Table 4. Adverse drug reactions in patients with uterine fibroids and endometriosis
Psychiatric disorders
Common
Irritability
Libido decreased*
Nervous system disorders
Very common
Headache
Common
Dizziness
Vascular disorders
Very common
Hot flush
Gastrointestinal disorders
Common
Nausea
Uncommon
Dyspepsia
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders
Common
Alopecia
Hyperhidrosis
Night sweats
Uncommon
Angioedema
Urticaria
Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders
Common
Arthralgia
Reproductive system and breast disorders
Common
Uterine bleeding**
Vulvovaginal dryness
Uncommon
Breast cyst
Uterine myoma expulsion
* includes libido decreased, libido loss and libido disorder.
** includes menorrhagia (heavy menstrual bleeding), metrorrhagia (intermenstrual bleeding), vaginal haemorrhage, uterine haemorrhage, polymenorrhoea, and menstruation irregular
Reporting of suspected adverse reactions
Reporting suspected adverse reactions after authorisation of the medicinal product is important. It allows continued monitoring of the benefit/risk balance of the medicinal product. Healthcare professionals are asked to report any suspected adverse reactions:
for United Kingdom (Great Britain and Northern Ireland)
Yellow Card Scheme
Website: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store
for Ireland
HPRA Pharmacovigilance
Website: www.hpra.ie
Single doses of relugolix up to 360 mg (9 times the recommended clinical dose of 40 mg) have been administered to healthy men and women and were generally well tolerated.
Overdoses up to 2 times the recommended dose have been reported during the clinical development of relugolix in combination with estradiol and norethisterone acetate without reports of adverse events.
Supportive care is recommended if an overdose occurs. The amount of relugolix, estradiol or norethisterone removed by haemodialysis is unknown.
Serious ill effects have not been reported following acute ingestion of large doses of estrogen-containing drug products by young children. Overdose of estradiol and norethisterone acetate may cause nausea and vomiting, and withdrawal bleeding may occur in women.
Medicines sold in Romania with the same active substance: Cunoscut în România ca
⚠ Not the same combination. This medicine contains Estradiol hemihydrate, Norethisterone acetate, Relugolix. The products below do not contain exactly the same set of active substances — they are not direct substitutes.
Some of these do not contain exactly the same active substances — check each one. The strength, the form and whether you need a prescription can differ. Always ask a pharmacist before you switch. Romanian medicines in the UK →
Medicines sold in Poland with the same active substance: W Polsce znany jako
Same active substance. The strength, the form and whether you need a prescription can differ. Always ask a pharmacist before you switch. Polish medicines in the UK →
Ask anything about Ryeqo 40mg/1mg/0.5mg film-coated tablets. The assistant answers only from this leaflet — if the leaflet does not cover it, it will say so. It does not give medical advice.
Answers come from the patient leaflet published on the electronic medicines compendium (emc). They are not medical advice. Ask a pharmacist or your GP if you are unsure. For urgent help call NHS 111, or 999 in an emergency.
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