Earlier this year, we announced that Endometriosis New Zealand had submitted applications to Pharmac seeking public funding for two hormonal treatments for endometriosis: Visanne (dienogest), as a first-line treatment option, and Ryeqo (relugolix with estradiol and norethisterone acetate), as a second-line option.
These applications form part of our ongoing advocacy to improve endometriosis care in Aotearoa New Zealand. Despite being used internationally, both medicines remained unfunded here, leaving many people facing significant out-of-pocket costs.
Visanne is recommended as a first-line medication, yet its cost remains a barrier for many. Ryeqo offers an additional option for people experiencing moderate to severe endometriosis pain who have not achieved sufficient relief from other medical or surgical treatments. We have worked alongside both medicine suppliers to help make these treatments available in New Zealand, including playing an influential role in bringing Visanne to the local market. Our funding applications reflect our continued commitment to ensuring people with endometriosis have a wider range of treatment options and can receive care tailored to their individual needs, regardless of their financial circumstances.
Both applications progress to the next stage
Pharmac has confirmed that both applications will be considered by its Pharmacology and Therapeutics Advisory Committee (PTAC) at its upcoming meeting on 12–13 November 2026.
PTAC reviews the clinical evidence for medicines and makes recommendations on whether applications should progress further towards funding. Consideration by PTAC is therefore a significant milestone for both applications.
We expect Pharmac to publicly release PTAC’s recommendations within a couple of months of the meeting. We will share an update with our community once these are available.
If either or both applications receive a positive recommendation, they will move into Pharmac’s prioritisation process, where they will be considered alongside other medicines Pharmac is seeking to fund as budget becomes available.
A positive PTAC recommendation does not guarantee funding or determine when it might happen. However, it would represent another important step towards making these hormonal treatment options more affordable for people with endometriosis in Aotearoa New Zealand.
We will continue to advocate for improved treatment options and keep our community informed as the applications progress.