Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is used by many women transitioning through the menopause to replace lower levels of hormones. We’re sure you have all been following the headlines on the current shortages of HRT and many of you may be experiencing the effects of these shortages first-hand.
There are around 2.5 million prescriptions of HRT made in England every year and the latest reports suggest these HRT supply problems could continue well into next year which can have devastating implications on women who are dependant on it to manage their symptoms.
A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said: “We know how distressing this shortage is for patients and it is our priority to ensure they can access the medicines they need. We are aware of ongoing supply issues with some HRT preparations due to manufacturing issues and are working closely with all suppliers to maintain overall flow of medicines to patients. Supplies of alternative HRT products are available, and any patient affected should discuss alternatives with their doctor.”1
“The British Menopause Society (BMS) has advised prescribers to find equivalent types by looking at the oestrogen and progestogen component and matching it as closely as possible to another brand,” said Haitham Hamoda, chair of the BMS. 2 You can visit their website for the latest over-view and advice on the HRT shortage situation here.
If you are looking for an alternative to HRT or can’t take it due to medical history, have you thought about discussing natural alternatives with your GP?
Did you know phytoestrogens such as soy and red clover isoflavones are a recognised natural alternative? Promensil standardised red clover is the most researched red clover isoflavones available and backed by over 20 years of scientific research. There is a range of supplements for each stage of the menopause and a clinically approved cooling spray to help with hot flushes and night sweats. In a survey carried out on over 500 women, 9 out of 10 women found Promensil worked for them3. To understand more about Promensil click here.
1 https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/hrt-hormone-therapy-shortage-women-menopause-mental-health-a9091981.html
2 https://www.europeanpharmaceuticalreview.com/news/97582/hrt-shortage-in-uk-expected-to-continue-until-next-year/
3 Survey carried out by PharmaCare on 501 women who had tried Promensil