Several types of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) are experiencing supply shortages and clinicians may need to help women switch to alternative options, the Australasian Menopause Society says.

There are currently and/or anticipated shortages of various doses of oestrogen patches including Estradot, Estalis Sequi and Climara patches in Australia, the Society notes.

And according to the TGA’s Medicines Shortage website there are also shortages of oral products such as Angeliq (drospirone/estradiol) and Duavive (conjugated estrogens; bazedoxifene)

The AMS says supplies of products such as Estraderm, Sandrena and Estrogel have not been affected and may be good alternatives for Estradot and Climara.

“If substituting Estraderm, Sandrena or Estrogel for Estalis Sequi, a progestogen will need to be added,” it says in a statement released on 22 May

“Alternative options are also available for these (such as Femonston-Conti and Livial) so please check the AMS Guide to Equivalent MHT/HRT Doses to review alternative options.”

Patients who are having issues with filling their prescription are encouraged to see their doctors to discuss alternative options.