Women Warned of HRT Shortages and Risks of Switching Brands

Women relying on hormone replacement therapy (HRT) are being cautioned about potential anxiety and side effects arising from shortages and necessitated brand switches, according to health professionals. The Department of Health has acknowledged supply disruptions affecting several HRT medications across the UK, specifically citing ongoing issues with Estradot transdermal patches and recent disruptions impacting FemSeven Conti patches.

Dr. Ursula Mason, chair of the Royal College of General Practitioners Northern Ireland, highlighted the anxiety patients can experience when a familiar and effective medication is unavailable. "This can be particularly so for HRT medication when a woman has found a preparation that works well for them," she said. She assured patients that any permitted substitution involves the exact same active ingredient at the same dose. However, she stressed the importance of consulting a GP if a new formulation causes side effects or does not manage symptoms effectively.

To address the Estradot transdermal patches shortage, Serious Shortage Protocols (SSPs) are in place until January 8, 2027. These protocols allow pharmacists to dispense alternative products without a new prescription, provided the patient agrees. The Department of Health stated that communications have been issued to healthcare professionals with advice on suitable available alternatives.

Roisin Hillman, co-founder of Menopause Together, a Northern Ireland-based support charity, noted that some women switching brands due to shortages have reported adverse effects, including itchy skin and patches detaching. She described the ongoing HRT patch shortages as "deeply frustrating" for women who have found a working treatment only for it to become scarce. Hillman advised women to request longer-term prescriptions from their GPs to mitigate the impact of supply gaps.

Crucially, Hillman warned against sharing HRT medication. "Please do not share HRT with other women because what is prescribed to you may not suit someone else," she urged. She emphasized that if a prescribed medication is unavailable, patients should seek advice from their healthcare provider regarding suitable alternatives. The disruption can significantly impact a woman's mental health, as HRT often plays a vital role in managing symptoms and improving overall well-being. "I know that when women have that fear and anxiety that the HRT they are on is helping so many aspects of their life and in particular a woman's mental health," she added. "If she on HRT that works for her and then if she is not getting that HRT it can be really hard."