Health
A Sudden Demand Surge Leaves Menopause Treatments in Short Supply
Women across the country are facing frustrating delays at the pharmacy as estrogen patches go on backorder. Increased demand and manufacturing limits mean some shortages could last up to three years.
The surge in prescriptions follows a major FDA decision to remove safety warnings that previously discouraged hormone replacement therapy. Many women are now seeking treatment after years of avoiding it due to overstated health concerns.
Health Points
- Estrogen patch use tripled between 2018 and 2026 as more women began seeking menopause relief.
- Top alternatives to patches include daily estrogen gels, sprays, and widely available oral tablets.
- Localized vaginal rings or creams are excellent options for those primarily treating dryness rather than systemic symptoms.
“We removed the black box warnings on hormone replacement therapy to tell women the truth about the short-term and profound long-term public health benefits,” explained FDA Commissioner Marty Makary, MD.
Experts recommend checking with independent pharmacies or asking your doctor about different patch brands to bridge the gap.
While waiting for supply to stabilize, maintaining close contact with a menopause specialist ensures your symptoms remain under control.