Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what recent assessment he has made of the adequacy of the availability of Estradot hormone replacement therapy patches; and what steps he is taking to ensure consistent supply for patients.

There are over 70 hormone replacement therapy (HRT) products, and the vast majority are in good supply. Previously there has been issues with the supply of a limited number of these products, primarily driven by very sharp increases in demand. Following the Department’s intensive engagement with industry, the supply position has improved considerably. As part of this we have previously met with suppliers on a very regular basis and have held nine HRT supply roundtables since April 2022, with the most recent in September 2024, with suppliers, wholesalers, and community pharmacists, to provide updates on the supply position and the actions being taken to address them, to share data, and to discuss relevant policy developments and potential impacts.

Currently, there are limited supplies of Estradot (estradiol) 37.5, 50, 75, and 100 microgram/24 hour patches, which may be available to local pharmacies to order. We are working with the sole supplier of Estradot to expedite further resupplies where possible. Further deliveries of all patches are expected in late April 2025, except for the 37.5 microgram/24 hour patches, which will be resupplied in July 2025.

We have issued comprehensive management guidance to the National Health Service, including Serious Shortage Protocols for some, allowing community pharmacists to supply the equivalent strength patch of an alternative brand without the need for a new prescription.