FEARS GROW OVER HRT PRODUCT SHORTAGE..
Maker says supply ‘intermittent’
FEARS are growing that there could be a shortage of some of the most popular hormone Replacement Therapy products.
The maker of one of the most widely used treatments said yesterday it is continually monitoring the situation to ensure an adequate supply.
In a statement to RTE, Novartis said: “Supply is intermittent at present, but we hope this situation will be resolved in July.” The company, which makes Estradot, said it very much acknowledged the current unprecedented demand for menopause treatment here.
The statement added: “We have significantly increased supplies of our HRT medication into Ireland, on a number of occasions since 2021, to reflect the increased demand.”
The shortage of supply in HRT medication has hit a number of countries in recent months.
It has raised questions about the support and expertise available to women requiring treatment for the symptoms of menopause. Common symptoms include, hot flashes, night sweats and brain fog.
A number of specialised clinics run by the HSE are opening across the country to deal with more complex cases. HRT products are available to those on medical cards, but the Irish College of General Practitioners says women who do not qualify for one can find the treatments very expensive.
Co-chair of Irish Pharmacy Union Kathy Maher said the demand for Estradot has risen dramatically since 2020 and it is now at a point where demand is exceeding supply.
She added: “When one particular patch went into short supply, another went into short supply.”