Orilissa Pros and Cons

Orilissa (elagolix) is a prescription medicine used to treat women suffering from mild to severe endometriosis pain. Orilissa is available in the form of a tablet that should be taken once or twice daily by mouth depending upon the direction of your healthcare provider. 

In July 2018, the Food and Drug Authority (FDA) approved Orilissa. After 3 months, of therapy Orilissa lowered signs of dysmenorrhea (excruciating menstruation) in 43 to 72 percent of women with endometriosis in clinical tests.  In 50 percent to 58 percent of women, it also lowered pelvic pain that was not linked to the menstrual cycle.

Orilissa contains the active ingredient elagolix. Elagolix is a GnRH receptor antagonist. Orilissa is an FDA-approved medication for the treatment of mild to severe endometriosis pain in women. Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue identical to the uterine lining develops outside of the uterus in the lower abdomen.

In uterine fibroids, Orilissa can be used off-label for treating severe menstrual bleeding. Orilissa lowered menstrual blood loss by approximately 98 percent in women with uterine fibroids, according to one research study.

The dosage of Orilissa that your doctor prescribes will be determined by the type and severity of the condition as well as your medical history. Orilissa should be used for no more than 24 months at a time. This is because Orilissa has been shown to lower bone density. This means that it has the potential to weaken your bones.

When endometriosis occurs, a layer of tissue that resembles the uterine lining grows outside the uterus. When a woman's hormone levels change rapidly, the tissue in her uterus can thicken and may rupture. In most cases, this occurs around the time of menstruation, and the tissue is shed with the flow of the menstrual cycle.

Orilissa Pros

Orilissa is approved and tested by US FDA for the treatment of painful endometriosis and data shows that about 40-70% of women who used this drug as prescribed by their healthcare experienced a reduction in severity due to stabilization of hormone levels.

This drug effectively provides relief from the excruciating pain of endometriosis. Moreover, Orilissa is a choice of drug in persons who have no contraindications for this drug and you will notice a gradual relief start from the first day of therapy.

Orilissa Cons

There are some serious side effects associated with Orilissa if it is used for the long term e.g. low density of bone leading to an increased risk of bone fracture. So, long-term usage of this drug should be avoided unless and otherwise prescribed by a doctor.

This drug sometimes causes sudden mood swings e.g. aggressive behavior, mania, or suicidal thoughts in already stressed people. Other side effects include discomfort of the digestive system, nausea, vomiting.