Women warned not to self-medicate amid ‘worrying’ HRT supply shortages

Women in the UK have been warned that shortages of Hormone Replacement Treatment (HRT) could continue for weeks.

Around two million women in England aged 40 and above regularly rely on HRT to manage symptoms triggered by menopause, according to the NHS.

It works to replace or top up falling levels of hormones – primarily oestrogen and progesterone – and is vital for women contending with menopause symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, brain fog, mood swings, anxiety, and vaginal dryness.

In the UK alone, there are over 70 different types of HRT products available – ranging from skin patches, sprays, gels, creams, pessaries, and intrauterine systems.

Most women tend to try out a few different kinds, ultimately settling on the method they find the most effective.

But in a recent statement shared by The Department of Health and Social Care, officials revealed that there are a number of HRT products currently out of stock – with FemSeven Conti patches and Estradot patches flagged as two of the medications most affected by the supply issue.

Experts emphasise that it’s crucial the government take action before women begin seeking out alternative solutions – potentially putting their health at risk in the process.

Which HRT products are affected by the supply issues?

According to multiple reports, two major HRT patch brands, Estradot and FemSeven Conti, are currently experiencing the worst disruption.

While pharmacies are hopeful that FemSeven Conti patches will be back on shelves by the end of November, access to Estradot is expected to remain limited until January 2027.

To try and minimise impact, the Department of Health has approved for Estradot to be put under serious shortage protocols (SSPs) – emergency regulatory measures in the UK that allow pharmacists to supply specified alternative medicines without needing to contact the original prescriber.

Dr Louise Newson, physician and hormone specialist, tells Metro that the Estradot shortage is indeed very ‘worrying’.

‘For many women hormones are an essential treatment that helps ease symptoms and protect their long-term health, so it’s worrying that women are still struggling to get their HRT.’

As experts point out, this isn’t the first time the UK has faced HRT shortages. In fact, supply chain disruption driven by surging consumer demand has been an issue since 2024.

‘Manufacturers and the government need to work together on a lasting solution,’ Dr Louise shares. ‘No woman should have to ring round pharmacies to find her medicine.’

What to do if your HRT is in short supply

If you find yourself running low on your medication, Dr Louise shares the following guidance:

• Don’t stop your treatment. Keep using your current supply while you investigate options
• Order repeat prescriptions early, but avoid stockpiling, as this can make shortages worse
• Ask your pharmacist whether an SSP covers your product and what alternatives they can offer
• Talk to your clinician about switching to a similar product, such as another brand of patch or an estradiol gel. Absorption varies between products, so your dose may need adjusting.
• Don’t borrow from friends or buy online, as you may not get the right product

If you’re ever concerned about your treatment, the best step forward is always to consult a professional.

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