UK Faces Extended HRT Product Shortages Amid Growing Demand

Women across the UK are once again facing notable shortages of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) products, with some items expected to remain out of stock for weeks. The Department of Health and Social Care has confirmed that FemSeven Conti patches, which contain estradiol and levonorgestrel, are currently unavailable and are not expected to be restocked until late November. Additionally, various Estradot patches are also in short supply, with no resolution anticipated until January.

HRT is a critical treatment for many women experiencing menopause symptoms, helping to alleviate issues such as hot flashes and sleep disturbances. The therapy typically involves the administration of oestrogen and progestogen, which are essential for managing these symptoms. According to the NHS Business Services Authority, nearly 2 million women aged 40 and above in England were prescribed HRT in the 2025-26 period, indicating a significant reliance on these products. However, access to HRT has been inconsistent, leading to ongoing frustrations among patients and healthcare providers alike.

The current shortages are not an isolated incident; they have been a recurring issue, particularly with Estradot patches, which have faced supply disruptions since December 2024. Pharmacists like Sobia Qasim have expressed concern about the impact of these shortages on patients, stating that finding an effective treatment only to discover it is unavailable can be distressing. Sehar Shahid from the National Pharmacy Association echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need for specialized HRT products that cannot be easily replaced with alternatives.

In response to the shortages, healthcare professionals suggest several alternatives for those affected. Options such as Evorel Conti and Estradot Conti patches are available, which contain estradiol and a different synthetic progestogen, norethisterone. Experts like Paula Briggs have reassured patients that maintaining the same dose of estradiol is crucial, and switching progestogens should not adversely affect symptom management. Patients are advised to consult their clinicians for guidance on alternative treatments and to avoid improper use of patches.

Looking ahead, experts warn that HRT shortages may continue as demand rises, with a reported annual increase of over 10% in usage. Shahid has called on the government to establish a task force to address the supply chain issues comprehensively. As the situation develops, it remains essential for women relying on HRT to stay informed and seek professional advice regarding their treatment options.