MP calls for action to release HRT medicine

SWANSEA MP Carolyn Harris has written to Secretary of State Sajid Javid outlining a solution to the current crippling hormone replacement therapy (HRT) shortages, and expressing concerns about importing unlicensed medication.

The Swansea East politician has pointed out that there is existing and Mhra-licensed stock currently in UK warehouses, but it can’t be released because of bureaucracy.

She said that this could be in pharmacies in a matter of days, but is currently on warehouse shelves because it’s not listed on local formularies. There are two types of formulary, the British

National Formulary and the local ones. Any medicine passed by the MHRA can be prescribed anywhere in the UK, but a doctor’s database will only show what has been passed locally.

“We are asking that HRT products are made automatically available on the local formulary so that doctors know they are available,” said Mrs Harris.

“Allowing medical professionals across the country to prescribe medication from a list of all licensed products would surely expedite distribution and ultimately allow all those who need HRT to receive it quickly and easily.”

She welcomed meetings with manufacturers and pharmacies, but is concerned about the suggestion that unlicensed products might be imported from abroad.

She added: “Given that we hold the stock on our own shores, surely we should look closer to home for the solution.”

It is understood that this stock might include older forms of HRT, which are not those currently in short supply.

Mrs Harris also says that she is asking that pharmacists be given the autonomy to change HRT prescriptions to the most suitable alternative available: “We need to stop this ping-pong between GP and pharmacist.”