Reassurances about shortage of hormone replacement products

Reassurances about shortage of hormone replacement products

Around half of the most commonly prescribed HRT products, which replace hormones including oestrogen that naturally decline during the menopause, are out of stock.

Consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist Fiona Nelson said Jersey’s supply lines mostly stemmed from the UK, where manufacturing and supply issues for some producers had caused the shortage.

Dr Nelson said there were many different types of therapy available via prescription, and that it should be possible for patients to obtain alternatives to the products they usually took.

‘We do understand that women may be worried by this shortage, but this is a Europe-wide issue. We would advise women to discuss alternative brands of HRT with their GP to ensure their supply is not interrupted.’

Dr Nelson added that the Royal College of Gynaecologists and the British Menopause Society were aware of the shortage and were suggesting alternative preparations which could be used. She said she believed it was ‘highly unlikely’ that Jersey would run out of all products, as some manufacturers were still reporting business as usual.

‘It should be possible to find a similar HRT product, or perhaps two products that together will have the same effect as a product that’s out of stock,’ she said.

A spokesperson for the LV Pharmacy in Beresford Street said there had been concern among some female customers, and echoed the advice for anyone concerned to talk to their GP.

The UK Department of Health confirmed that it was aware of ongoing supply issues caused by manufacturing delays and was working closely with all suppliers to maintain overall flow of medicines to patients.

More information is available on the British Menopause Society website: thebms.org.uk.

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