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Medications for Endometriosis

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By Editorial Team

3 min read

Reviewed by: HU Medical Review Board | Last reviewed: March 2025 | Last updated: March 2025

Endometriosis is a condition where endometrial tissue, which lines the inside of the uterus, grows outside of the uterus. This tissue can grow on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and other areas in the pelvis. It can cause pain, heavy bleeding, and other problems. Medicine can help manage the symptoms of endometriosis.1

Pain medicines

One of the main symptoms of endometriosis is pain. This pain can be very bad. Pain medicines can help reduce this pain. These medicines work in different ways.1

Why are they used?

Pain medicines are used to relieve the pain caused by endometriosis. They do not cure the disease. They help manage the pain so that people can do their daily activities. This can help improve a person's quality of life.1

Examples of pain medicines

Examples of pain medicines include:1-3

  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) – These are common pain relievers. Examples include ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®) and naproxen (Aleve®). These medicines help reduce inflammation and pain. People can buy these medicines over the counter.
  • Acetaminophen – A nonprescription pain reliever that is available over the counter and can help manage pain. Examples include Tylenol®.
  • Prescription pain relievers – For more severe pain, a doctor may prescribe stronger pain medicines. Examples include codeine, oxycodone, and hydrocodone. These medicines should be taken exactly as directed by a doctor.

Some pain medicines can cause side effects. These side effects can include stomach upset, headaches, and drowsiness. Some pain medicines can be harmful if taken in large doses or for a long time.1,3

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These are not all the possible side effects of pain medicines. Talk to your doctor about what to expect when taking pain medicines. You also should call your doctor if you have any changes that concern you when taking pain medicines.

Hormone therapy drugs

Hormone therapy drugs are another type of medicine used to treat endometriosis. These drugs work by changing the levels of hormones in the body. This can help shrink the endometrial tissue and reduce pain.1,2

Why are they used?

Hormone therapy drugs are used to reduce the growth of endometrial tissue. They can also help reduce pain and heavy bleeding. Hormone therapy drugs can be very effective in reducing the symptoms of endometriosis and help improve a person's quality of life.1,2

Examples of hormone therapy drugs

Examples of hormone therapy drugs include:1,2

  • Birth control pills – These pills contain hormones that can help regulate the menstrual cycle. They can reduce pain and heavy bleeding.
  • Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists and GnRH antagonists – These drugs stop the body from producing estrogen. This can shrink endometrial tissue and reduce pain.
  • Progestin therapy – This type of therapy uses progestin, a hormone that plays a role in menstruation and pregnancy, to help stop and reduce the growth of endometrial tissue.
  • Aromatase inhibitors – These medicines reduce the amount of estrogen the body makes.

Hormone therapy drugs can cause side effects. These side effects can include weight gain, mood changes, and hot flashes. Some hormone drugs can also cause bone thinning.1,2

These are not all the possible side effects of hormone therapy drugs. Talk to your doctor about what to expect when taking hormone therapy drugs. You also should call your doctor if you have any changes that concern you when taking hormone therapy.

While hormone therapy can help with endometriosis symptoms, they are not a cure for endometriosis. Talk to a doctor about the risks and benefits of these drugs and which type of hormone therapy is right for you.1,2

Things to know

Medicine is not the only treatment for endometriosis. Other treatments include surgery such as laparoscopy and complementary therapies like acupuncture. Talk to your doctor about all treatment options. They can help create a treatment plan that is right for each person.1,2

Regular checkups with a doctor are important for managing endometriosis. Tell your doctor of any side effects that you experience while taking medicines.

Before beginning treatment for endometriosis, tell your doctor about all your health conditions and any other drugs, vitamins, or supplements you take. This includes over-the-counter drugs.

Endometriosis can be a difficult condition. But with the right treatment, you can manage your symptoms and live a healthy life.1,2

Treatment results and side effects can vary from person to person. This treatment information is not meant to replace professional medical advice. Talk to your doctor about what to expect before starting and while taking any treatment.