Menopause Matters Forum
Menopause Discussion => All things menopause => Topic started by: pepperminty on August 09, 2019, 07:35:17 PM
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Hi Ladies , see link on supply shortage - yikes mine is on there amongst others, what to do? I have enough for a while, but then what.
https://thebms.org.uk/2019/08/british-menopause-society-update-on-hrt-supply-shortages/
Peppermintyx
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Thanx Pepperminty
Mines ok on the list.....nearly had a breakdown then...xxxx
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Phew! :D
Thanks for posting Pepperminty
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Got my supply of Evorel Conti patches this week from my pharmacist
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I do hope that they sort the issues out, seeing my Gp in a weeks time and I am going to ask him what to do as there are no alternatives to my type as the progesterone is not available in anything else.
It makes my blood boil as I couldn't see it happening with drugs aimed at men- These are life savers for many women - what exactly is causing this issue? I would like to see the BBC put this on the news - THEN SEE HOW QUICKLY IT MAY BE RESOLVED. Or maybe not. Surley this is news worthy ?
Peppermintyx
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I agree Pepperminty, this should never be allowed to happen. They may not consider it saving lives stuff like blood pressure med or something but for the hundreds of thousands of women it is life changing.
Thank you for sharing :)
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There's this article in today's Daily Mail, pepperminty:
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-7343287/Tens-thousands-menopausal-women-hit-nationwide-shortage-HRT-drugs.html
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Vicky do you live in UK if so what part, I am in West Mids and found difficulty in getting my last prescription filled.. :'(
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Vicky do you live in UK if so what part, I am in West Mids and found difficulty in getting my last prescription filled.. :'(
Rosebush. I have been having problems for several weeks. I have a part prescription still with a local pharmacy. That is in London.
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Thanks peppermint x
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Hi Ladies , see link on supply shortage - yikes mine is on there amongst others, what to do? I have enough for a while, but then what.
https://thebms.org.uk/2019/08/british-menopause-society-update-on-hrt-supply-shortages/?fbclid=IwAR0eaFmW3QY5HF6EThupDjO-9PNBa-6H4eTV5AWygQ5soxUzuNIVKAanRPo
Peppermintyx
Thanks so much for this info pepperminty - great that the BMS is onto it with the manufacturers and saves us all writing to or phoning them!
I agree it should never be allowed to happen....
Heaven knows what will happen after Brexit (if...she says hopefully?)
Hurdity x
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Hi Rosebush
I waited 2 weeks to get them after putting my order in at the chemist, but my pharmacist managed to get them for me in the end, thankfully. I live in Bournemouth.
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This fills me with fear! I've had so much trouble with hrt in the past now my patch is not sticking like it use to and worried I won't be able to get it anyway.
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The BBC have picked up on it now:
https://www.menopausematters.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=post;topic=44773.0;last_msg=719684
I don't know what the answer is but I can't see it getting better soon.
Our doctors are confused as to which ones to prescribe as an alternative (partly due to lack of information but also not enough training etc).
The pharmacies can only go on what the suppliers tell them on that particular day/time.
And the government are just turning a blind eye & covering their ears & hoping it will all go away.
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Hi ladies,
Great it was on the news, but I wonder what the goverment would do if it were anti depressants effecting both sexes- Can you see a GP saying "try these as all anti depressants do the same thing!!!!!" Again bet if men were effected it would be sorted post haste! ::).
PMX
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p
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for some reason it wont let me read the BBC thread
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There is an article on the BBC News website about this.
Sorry can't do links on my phone but it's easy to find.
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This makes me so angry! I would not be having a menopause at 25 had I'd been looked after probably after the birth of my daughter, now I have ostriprina and ME to all thanks to that so I'm trying to use hrt to help with problems cause by this.I'm not happy.
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It is happening again, it is the mm website ,just keeps telling me someone has posted and to review my post,but when i click on the link takes me back to this warning
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I think it's meant to be this:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-49308083
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The summary on the British Menopause Society link is really useful and remember our decision tree at www.menopausematters.co.uk/tree.php where you can click on a red box most relevant to yourself and see the HRT products. It is usually possible to find an equivalent regimen to those not currently available.
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Thanks for that Dr Currie!
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Thank you 😊
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Ahh, thank you Jenna, read it :)
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That is a useful link, but unfortunately some progesterones have no equivalent - it would be trial and error and we all know how changing regimes can start a whole can of worms.
PMX
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I have just seen this on the FB VA discussion https://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-britain-eu-medicines/no-deal-brexit-could-deepen-europes-shortage-of-medicines-experts-idUKKCN1V20FQ?utm_source=applenews
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Kathy Abernethy - Menopause Specialist has just been on the ITV lunchtime news, saying find out about equivalents and also leave enough time when putting prescription in, but said no one really seems to know the cause of it x
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Kathy Abernethy - Menopause Specialist has just been on the ITV lunchtime news, saying find out about equivalents and also leave enough time when putting prescription in, but said no one really seems to know the cause of it x
That relies on the GP's willingness to let us have a prescription early. I made such a request but they have only allowed me one for 16 patches to cover the shortfall from my last prescription which I still haven't got (pharmacy still out of stock now).
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I get one box of 8 at a time and replace patch every 3 days, so can't see how I will ever get ahead on having any back up either x
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I have written to my MP about this! Feel free to cut and paste / amend my letter:
Dear Joanna
Can you help apply pressure to pharmaceutical companies that make HRT to resolve the issue of shortages as a matter of some urgency? I, like many of your constituents I am sure, am on HRT which provides a massive quality of life improvement for me. This is not just about reducing hot flushes. I have a wide range of symptoms, the most debilitating of which is severe joint pain which means I am unable to walk for more than 10 minutes when it is not being controlled by my HRT patches - I use Evorel 50 made by Janssen. Janssen are currently projecting that they will run out of this product in early November. https://thebms.org.uk/2019/08/british-menopause-society-update-on-hrt-supply-shortages/?fbclid=IwAR0eaFmW3QY5HF6EThupDjO-9PNBa-6H4eTV5AWygQ5soxUzuNIVKAanRPo (https://thebms.org.uk/2019/08/british-menopause-society-update-on-hrt-supply-shortages/?fbclid=IwAR0eaFmW3QY5HF6EThupDjO-9PNBa-6H4eTV5AWygQ5soxUzuNIVKAanRPo) Some women that I know are already unable to get their prescriptions of other preparations fulfilled.
Professor Helen Stokes-Lampard, chair of the Royal College of GPs https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/health-and-families/hrt-shortage-menopausal-women-hormone-replacement-therapy-menopause-a9052726.htmlhttp:// today commented that because the information about shortages is commercially sensitive 'nobody will be honest with the public and the NHS'.
It is not as simple as swapping one product for another, as has been suggested - it took many months for me to be referred to a specialist menopause clinic and find the correct drug regime after some trial and error. We need to understand what exactly these shortages are being caused by and what is being done to resolve the situation.
I am happy to discuss this with you further and would appreciate your urgent attention to this matter.
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I get one box of 8 at a time and replace patch every 3 days, so can't see how I will ever get ahead on having any back up either x
1 box of 8 won't last long at all. My last prescription was for 24 (ie 12 weeks as I apply 2 a week). I only got 16 due to the supply problem. I tried asking my GP to make an exception and advance me the next one because of the shortages (to try an online pharmacy which has stock). They did do one but only for enough to complete the previous prescription.
You must have to request a new prescription every 2 weeks.
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da66, nice letter. I hope lots of ladies follow your example.
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I am surprised that my HRT isnt on the list cos I have had issues trying to get my prescription filled. My HRT is Indivina 2mg/5mg. My chemist told me that due to the shortages of other HRTs, the docs had been prescribing my HRT in replacement and it caused a shortage and that the wholesale supplier wont get any more in until hopefully start of Sept. I have just enough to last me until end of Sept!
So the shortages isnt just patches and that they are not telling the whole story about this!
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I use cut down Evorel Conti patches (as agreed with GP) and am very concerned about the current HRT shortage.
If Evorel Conti does become difficult to get, what other conti patch could I use?
I suppose what I'm asking is are there any patches or indeed any products aimed at the er older post menopausal woman?
I don't use a lot of HRT but would really miss the little I use if it were no longer available.
I asked the meno consultant this in July and he immediately said Femseven Conti upon which I told him that it wasn't available either. He replied that I knew more than he did!
I might have to go back to half patches (as were originally prescribed to me as a low dose) just to avoid running out. However they didn't have much effect on me.
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Apparently it was a domino effect caused by Theramex sudden removing FemSeven Conti and Sequi from market without previous warning. If they are really coming back next Spring, things must return to normal. Hope you all can get hold of alternatives until then.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-7349605/Why-supplies-HRT-drugs-running-low.html
BeaR.
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Another link https://en.brinkwire.com/health/why-supplies-of-hrt-drugs-are-running-low/
BeaR.
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Re Everol Conti 50, Boots Pharmacy have no stock, 3 of my local Pharmacies have no stock, all stated "they have them on order with suppliers" but no delivery dates yet !!
My head is so foggy trying to work out alternatives, looks like tabs or gel, but what type/brand?? will check out info on here too see if things become any clearer. :'( xx
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Re Everol Conti 50, Boots Pharmacy have no stock, 3 of my local Pharmacies have no stock, all stated "they have them on order with suppliers" but no delivery dates yet !!
My head is so foggy trying to work out alternatives, looks like tabs or gel, but what type/brand?? will check out info on here too see if things become any clearer. :'( xx
Have you seen my other email about supplies today? The Independent Pharmacy has replied to say that they do have stock of Evorel Conti.
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Thanks Kate I am now making phones calls..emails etc..xx
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Hi Rosebush.
It's easy to order evorel conti from the independent pharmacy on line. Just feel in a questionnaire, it's a big expensive but at least you will have the patches. Hopefully it will all be okay soon and back to normal for all of us.
Vicky x
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Hi Rosebush.
It's easy to order evorel conti from the independent pharmacy on line. Just feel in a questionnaire, it's a big expensive but at least you will have the patches. Hopefully it will all be okay soon and back to normal for all of us.
Vicky x
vicky You don't pay those high charges if you have an NHS prescription. It is just the usual prescription charge or nothing if you have exemption. Also no need to complete the questionnaire.
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Hi Katejo
Thanks. Thats right I know they do take prescriptions. I just meant if you wanted a few extra supplies and you didn't have a prescription it would be nice to have some extra in stock. The price is high without a prescription too. It took a few weeks for my pharmacist to get my evorel contii recently, so just nice to not have to worry about it all.
X
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Hi Katejo
Thanks. Thats right I know they do take prescriptions. I just meant if you wanted a few extra supplies and you didn't have a prescription it would be nice to have some extra in stock. The price is high without a prescription too. It took a few weeks for my pharmacist to get my evorel contii recently, so just nice to not have to worry about it all.
X
They told me to send my prescription to a Freepost address but I am cautious in case it goes missing. Will at least make a photocopy of the prescription first.
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Hi Katejo. My pharmacist got my patches for me. I'd let your pharmacist organise getting them for you. X
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Hi Katejo. My pharmacist got my patches for me. I'd let your pharmacist organise getting them for you. X
I haven't had any success with that. They just say that they are out of stock and have no idea when they will get any. That is why I started investigating the online pharmacist.
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Hi
Phone the manufacturers, Janssen, *nd ask for advice
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Hi
Phone the manufacturers, Janssen, *nd ask for advice
I have heard from others that Janssen has said that they can respond to orders from pharmacies but that pharmacies have refused to contact them. I think there is a middleman in the process. There has been a discussion on FB about this.
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Yes I did read that but I would give it a go and phone them
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Just chiming in to say have been prescribed estrogel and utrogestan and my local Boots say that they're completely out of the utro >:( Have had to order it from another pharmacy and it won't be here until tomorrow. Feeling upset 'cos I'm struggling and really wanted to get on with this right away (doctor says I could start with the utro part straight away, as I'd had nearly 2 weeks of estrogen patches before coming out in a nasty rash due to the adhesive and today would have been the day I started with the prog part of the cycle). :'(
I know it's only one more day but...you ladies know how it is, right?
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Hello - just to say thanks, these updates have been really useful. I just cried at my pharmacist with the stress of trying to get HRT patches :(
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Hi Ladies,
Does anyone know if any pharmacies have femosten 1/10 in stock?
Peppermintyx
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Managed to find some 1/10 Femosten by ringing around, now need Zumenon, but that isn't so vital. I got told by my normal pharmacist there were no stocks anywhere- so just try another type! I pointed out that the progesterone would be different and she replied well the estrogen is all the same JUST TRY ANOTHER ONE THEY DO THE SAME THING -Wait til she gets to meno- CANNOT BELIEVE THE IGNORANCE.
PMX
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Thanks Kate I am now making phones calls..emails etc..xx
Hi Rosebush I have just taken the plunge and sent off a prescription to the Independent Pharmacy online. It is only a part prescription for 16 patches because that is all the GP would give me. It will do as a test.
I will add a comment here when I get it. if it goes missing in the post then...... Cross that bridge when I get to it! I have kept a photocopy of the prescription as a precaution.
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Hi
Phone the manufacturers, Janssen, *nd ask for advice
I was at the pharmacy today to pick up other routine prescriptions so I took the opportunity to ask about this. As I expected the answer is no. The pharmacy is only allowed to order from the supplier with which it has a contract and they can't make exceptions and order direct from the manufacturer.
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Hi katejo. It's good you tried with your pharmacist. My pharmacist was okay doing that for me. But who knows next time, best to look at other options as we don't know how long this shortage is going to last. It's bad we have to be doing all this! Let me know when you get your patches from your on-line pharmacy. Hope you are fine x
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Yep it is bad that we have to do all this, I rang 15 chemists today and my GP 4 times and managed to get my HRT - 3 months extra, incase this goes on a long time. I wonder just how long it will go on? I couldn't see this happening with any other meds!
PMX
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Yep it is bad that we have to do all this, I rang 15 chemists today and my GP 4 times and managed to get my HRT - 3 months extra, incase this goes on a long time. I wonder just how long it will go on? I couldn't see this happening with any other meds!
PMX
Surprised that you got 3 months extra. My GP won't do that. The Evorel prescription sent today only allows me 16 patches. If it arrives safely, I will have enough to last me about 3 months in total.
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Yep it is bad that we have to do all this, I rang 15 chemists today and my GP 4 times and managed to get my HRT - 3 months extra, incase this goes on a long time. I wonder just how long it will go on? I couldn't see this happening with any other meds!
PMX
Surprised that got 3 months extra. My GP won't do that. The Evorel prescription sent today only allows me 16 patches. If it arrives safely, I will have enough to last me about 3 months in total.
I showed my GP print outs including advice to stock up- ask for extra well in advance etc - he is pretty good at giving me what I need/want. I said that I would be getting some advive from a private meno specialist eventually ( when I can afford it) ref testosterone/Hrt eventually as the local NHS specialist is clueless and looked blankly when I mentioned testosterone, he said that he would be willing to support me etc.
Scary that we have to panic about this vital medication.
PMX
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Kate really hope you get your script filled okay and receive it quickly. :-*
Just made a new post re make up of sequi, one Pharmacy offered me those, as no conti in stock, but don't know how they work? x
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Kate really hope you get your script filled okay and receive it quickly. :-*
Just made a new post re make up of sequi, one Pharmacy offered me those, as no conti in stock, but don't know how they work? x
I have just read your query and added a comment to it. I have never used Sequi but think you would get a regular bleed if you used both parts. I will let you know if my order arrives successfully from Independent Pharmacy. I emailed them to say that I was sending it to them.
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I started HRT this week, I wanted gel but my gp wanted me to have patches,she phoned several pharmacies but not of them had patches,she then prescribed me the gel oestrogel and utrogestan and sent the script to my local Boots,when I went to pick it up they didn't have either,they could order the utrogestan but when they tried to order the oestrogel it said it was unavailable,they use Alliance healthcare to get their products from
They gave me my script back and I went to surper drug,they had the gel and half the amount of utrogestan that I needed and were able to order the other half which I'm picking up today
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https://www.chemistanddruggist.co.uk/news/list-of-HRT-shortages The comments are priceless... This one made me want to shoot the bastard's bollocks.
"Lucky Ex-Locum, Superintendent Pharmacist
Posted on Fri, 16/08/2019 - 10:50
Just remember the demographic that needs HRT. Us blokes of a certain age have been putting up with unreasonableness for years. Just sayin....."
(https://i.imgur.com/NXYommY.gif)
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https://www.chemistanddruggist.co.uk/news/list-of-HRT-shortages The comments are priceless... This one made me want to shoot the bastard's bollocks.
"Lucky Ex-Locum, Superintendent Pharmacist
Posted on Fri, 16/08/2019 - 10:50
Just remember the demographic that needs HRT. Us blokes of a certain age have been putting up with unreasonableness for years. Just sayin....."
(https://i.imgur.com/NXYommY.gif)
Have just had a look . Wow!
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I put in my repeat prescription last week and went to pick up my 6 months supply of Femoston 1/10 this afternoon. The pharmacist apologised and told me they only had 5 months worth which they gave me. They told me the problem was Brexit and that they would expect it to be resolved by the time my 5 months run out! When I enquired what I could take instead they told me I could have patches instead. I thought the shortage of patches had caused the shortage of pills? Was pleased I managed to get most of my prescription though :)
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I am on Zumenon & that is out of stock & I can't get it.
It's crazy that this should be allowed to happen
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I put in my repeat prescription last week and went to pick up my 6 months supply of Femoston 1/10 this afternoon. The pharmacist apologised and told me they only had 5 months worth which they gave me. They told me the problem was Brexit and that they would expect it to be resolved by the time my 5 months run out! When I enquired what I could take instead they told me I could have patches instead. I thought the shortage of patches had caused the shortage of pills? Was pleased I managed to get most of my prescription though :)
Ask your GP for a 3 month back up and ring around the local chemists if you are worried perhaps- I did and managed to get some more incase.
PMX
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Menopause news
Title
Continuing shortage of HRT
Date
19 August 2019
Full Story
A significant national shortage of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) was described as "incredibly concerning" by GPs.
The Royal Pharmaceutical Society said it was: "Worrying and frustrating," for patients.
The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) said it was aware of the problem and was working closely with suppliers to maintain availability to patients.
Prof Helen Stokes-Lampard, chair of the Royal College of GPs (RCGP), said in a statement: "It's not entirely clear why there is currently a shortage of these HRT drugs – it seems as though there are several factors at play – or how long it'll last, but it is already having a massive impact on our patients' lives, and needs to be addressed as a matter of urgency so that patients across the UK are able to continue accessing the care and treatment they need and deserve."
Supply and manufacturing problems
The British Menopause Society (BMS) said some of the supply problems were down to manufacturing shortages, while others were related to supply issues.
On 9 August 2019, it listed products which it said were currently unavailable. These included:
·Evorel patches (Janssen - estradiol) most of which could remain out of stock until the autumn. It said the manufacturer had indicated that shortages were caused by an unusual increase in demand.
·Mylan was experiencing shortages of Elleste Solo: 2mg oestradiol; Elleste Duet 1mg oestradiol + 1mg norethisterone acetate; Elleste Duet Conti 2mg oestradiol + 1mg norethisterone; Femoston 1mg oestradiol + 10mg dydrogesterone; Zumenon 1mg oestradiol and 2mg oestradiol; Elleste Solo MX patches 40mcg transdermal oestradiol; Elleste Solo MX patches 80mcg transdermal oestradiol
·Estraderm MX 50 (Novartis) patches (pack of 8) were available but in short supply.
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I have read tonight on mumsnet that someone at a private hospital has told someone tht it is the Home office that is restricting HRT and told KIM whoever they are not to let so much out
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Didn't notice this thread! I posted about it here:
https://www.menopausematters.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,43817.msg722120.html#msg722120 (https://www.menopausematters.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,43817.msg722120.html#msg722120)
"It gets worse >:(. For those of you not on Twitter:
From Dr Anne Henderson:
I have just been advised by our Pharmacy Team at KIMS that there is now an @DHSCgovuk embargo on ordering #HRT patches and supplies are being severely restricted to only 10% of previous orders. I have never come across such an utterly disgraceful situation. Truly unbelievable!"
and
"Further update from Dr Anne Henderson:
I have been in touch with @Novartis who manufacture one of the leading brands of #HRT patch and I understand that they have adequate supplies of the products but the “middle men†in the equation - let me guess who they are! @DHSCgovuk - are restricting distribution."
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Didn't notice this thread! I posted about it here:
https://www.menopausematters.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,43817.msg722120.html#msg722120 (https://www.menopausematters.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,43817.msg722120.html#msg722120)
"It gets worse >:(. For those of you not on Twitter:
From Dr Anne Henderson:
I have just been advised by our Pharmacy Team at KIMS that there is now an @DHSCgovuk embargo on ordering #HRT patches and supplies are being severely restricted to only 10% of previous orders. I have never come across such an utterly disgraceful situation. Truly unbelievable!"
and
"Further update from Dr Anne Henderson:
I have been in touch with @Novartis who manufacture one of the leading brands of #HRT patch and I understand that they have adequate supplies of the products but the “middle men†in the equation - let me guess who they are! @DHSCgovuk - are restricting distribution."
Disgraceful indeed- if it were men it wouldn't happen - why aren't the goverment doing something? How long will his last? What will happen 6 months down the line?
PMX
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I hate to say it but perhaps this is 'stockpiling', as with other products, due to you know what!!
I'm not going to say the word. ::)
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Well finally has happened again to me and with a product not on the current shortages list.
I use Estradot 75 mcg ( cut down) and was only given 1 pack instead of 3 when I renewed the other day. They said they could only release one pack at a time and would continue to order it - and for me to ring again in a month. This did happen (nothing to do with Brexit or refromulation of other brands having a knock-on effect) a few years ago with Estradot 50 and continued for several months but until very recently have had no problem.
Really don't like that violent cat image!
Hurdity x
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What is KIMS? sorry no idea ?in regard to the HRT problem
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What is KIMS? sorry no idea ?in regard to the HRT problem
It's a hospital, NHS & private. I imagine Dr Henderson works there. KIMS stands for Kent Institute of Medicine and Surgery.
JP x
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Ahh thank you,i did google it but didn't realise it was connected with th, at hospital
I thought it was a Government thing
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I've just been told by pharmasist he cant get estradot 100 at moment!!!
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No more Estraderm for me, 20 years menopause and have never had such bad luck with hrt.😢
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Miracle! I had to buy the Evorel conti patch privately, but I got the last box of 24 patches of Evorel 50 Boots had. Thankful to be sorted for the next 6 months, and I still have 3 weeks worth of patches left from my last prescription.
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I do have Estradot spare as was given them by mistake!
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I agree I've had 20 years of this, but never this bad. It disgusting this is happening. I have depression and ME and at the moment I feel like I'm not far of losing it. Xx
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I've just been told by pharmasist he cant get estradot 100 at moment!!!
Aaarrgh!! Was this Boots? There's not supposed to be any issues with Estradot >:(
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Latest update from the BMS:
https://thebms.org.uk/2019/08/british-menopause-society-further-update-on-hrt-supply-shortages/ (https://thebms.org.uk/2019/08/british-menopause-society-further-update-on-hrt-supply-shortages/)
There are no shortages of Estradot >:(.
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It was a local pharmacy. He ga e me what he had in stock and said when he tried to order more he couldnt. I will ring round another couple pharmacies and check
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He is still saying he cant get it. But I just 0honed lloyds and they can get it. Cant fill myscrip though as hes already part filled it. So back to the docs !!!
It just shows it's worth asking around.
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Same here it took me a while to get on the patches I am using and be okay. I tried other HRT regimes and nothing else suited me. When they say to go on a different HRT because of the shortages, there is nothing else for me. Hope I don't have to go to Spain to get them eventually. I've got about 6 months of patches. Hopefully it will all get sorted, who knows. It's a bad situation for us, nothing much is being said about it now in the news.
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hi all,
I managed to get 3 boxes of estradot 50mcgs/ 24hr patches, ( could of had more) but, no hassel , no probs , no begging the unenlightened GP, ordered them in the morning picked them up im the afternoon, but... im in SPAIN! bought them without prescription, @19euros per box The hassel in the uk with it all is enbarassing to say the least! Only hope it is all sorted soonest!
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I was told just use an HRT that they have in stock! Would they say that if it were anti depressants? SHOCKING!
Peppermintyx
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That's exactly it pepperminty, we are all different and react differently, but according to the powers that be one size fits all when it comes to an hrt shortage x
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Hi Countrygirl,
just seen the news and some doctor that runs a meno clinic kept on saying women can't get the HRT that they WANT- shouldn't she being saying NEED! She said they can explore alternatives! She made it sound like we are a bunch of crazies demanding thier favorite sweeties. OMG - women are really treated differently.
PMX
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It's a joke to be honest, I feel HRT is treat like it's a vitamin or something. Like PMT can be very serious for some ladies the menopause can be too.
Everytime im settled on a HRT it's discontinued! There has never been consistency or help needed.
This carry on now dose not surprise me I guess, I'm use to it.
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Morning ladies. I've just caught something on BBC news about the HRT shortages. They are saying that Everol might not now be available until the middle of next year. I'm not taking this particular HRT because I didn't tolerate the progesterone. I'm still trying to find something that works for me after being on Prempak for years with no problems. This particular HRT was discontinued a couple of years ago so I can totally relate to how ladies are feeling with not being able to source a regime that suits them.
I think it's a total disgrace that the shortages have been allowed to happen. I'm not sure if it's due to Brexit but wonder if it's more to do with the fact that more ladies are choosing to take HRT now that it is deemed to be safer than previously thought. Surely the manufacturers concerned must have been aware of this increase in demand and could have upped production to meet the increasing demand.
Sorry to rant but I feel really enraged that so many women will be at their wits end trying to get their HRT and the impact it will have on their lives !!
Rosie63x
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Morning ladies. I've just caught something on BBC news about the HRT shortages. They are saying that Everol might not now be available until the middle of next year. I'm not taking this particular HRT because I didn't tolerate the progesterone. I'm still trying to find something that works for me after being on Prempak for years with no problems. This particular HRT was discontinued a couple of years ago so I can totally relate to how ladies are feeling with not being able to source a regime that suits them.
I think it's a total disgrace that the shortages have been allowed to happen. I'm not sure if it's due to Brexit but wonder if it's more to do with the fact that more ladies are choosing to take HRT now that it is deemed to be safer than previously thought. Surely the manufacturers concerned must have been aware of this increase in demand and could have upped production to meet the increasing demand.
Sorry to rant but I feel really enraged that so many women will be at their wits end trying to get their HRT and the impact it will have on their lives !!
Rosie63x
Yes I saw that too as I was having breakfast. Shocked to hear that there may not be any until next year. I go to Italy soon and will ask whether I can buy them there as you can in Spain.
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Hi Rosie,
I was on premique which was discontinued same time as the prempak. Like you I find it hard as I have ME so chemical sensitivity. I was on nouvelle 10 yrs that was discontinued, took four years to finally settle on premique, two years on this then discontinued!
After another bumpy couple of years I settled on duavine but a year on this had to stop as was not strong enough (I have ostperina due to early meno) so it's Important I get the right amount! Then patches for about 8 months and yep can't get them as a knock on effect due to one brand not available. It's a disgrace. X
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Rosie was sad to read your post as I am on Evorel Conti due to Femseven going off the market, got my prescription filled last week after making 15 phone calls and my hubby driving miles to get them for me, a very kind member had 14 patches she know longer required and posted them to me ( :-*) so they will help my HRT usage up to 5months, so come end of year and I will be back in panic mode, so bloody angry as to why we have not been given a full explantion as to why there is a shortage!!! :'( :'(
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Hi Countrygirl,
just seen the news and some doctor that runs a meno clinic kept on saying women can't get the HRT that they WANT- shouldn't she being saying NEED! She said they can explore alternatives! She made it sound like we are a bunch of crazies demanding thier favorite sweeties. OMG - women are really treated differently.
PMX
Actually I thought that she came across ok and appreciated the problem. I don't think she was disputing the need for specific types.
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Update. Spoke to.original pharmasist who still insists he cant get estradot 100 and he doesnt know how Lloyd's have got them. He told me to go back doc for new scrip and he said "doctors are aware of the situation". I said "im not so sure about that" and he said "they are now". . Which I thought was weird thing to say.
But Then I spoke Lloyd's again and she said
GPs have had a memo in the last couple of days informing them about which HRT are out of stock and which are low and likely to become unavailable.
She said she is wary of how stable the supply of estradot 100 will be and advised me to get as many written up as I can.to try to cover myself for the next 6 months. Yikes!!!!.
I realy would like to know what's in that memo and who it originated from!!!!!
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Dont know why the link is so long, but i just read this.
https://www-dailymail-co-uk.cdn.ampproject.org/v/s/www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/pa/article-7389751/amp/Medical-experts-call-action-HRT-patch-shortages.html?amp_js_v=a2&_gsa=1&usqp=mq331AQEKAFwAQ%3D%3D#aoh=15666466215824&_ct=1566646647803&referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com&_tf=From%20%251%24s&share=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dailymail.co.uk%2Fwires%2Fpa%2Farticle-7389751%2FMedical-experts-call-action-HRT-patch-shortages.html
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Dont know why the link is so long, but i just read this.
https://www-dailymail-co-uk.cdn.ampproject.org/v/s/www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/pa/article-7389751/amp/Medical-experts-call-action-HRT-patch-shortages.html?amp_js_v=a2&_gsa=1&usqp=mq331AQEKAFwAQ%3D%3D#aoh=15666466215824&_ct=1566646647803&referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com&_tf=From%20%251%24s&share=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dailymail.co.uk%2Fwires%2Fpa%2Farticle-7389751%2FMedical-experts-call-action-HRT-patch-shortages.html
This one was discussed on the BBC News 24 Papers discussion last night. They didn't believe that there was a connection to Brexit but I am far from convinced.
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Here is some more info from the BBC News website.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-49452029
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It all started with FemSeven conti and sequi patches...
Teva had decided to discontinue these products but soon afterwards Teva sold its Women's Health division to Theramex, that has decided to continue selling them, but with changes in adhesive structure (it's not clear what the problem is exactly, the patches have two adhesive matrix, one with hormones and the other with glue. Theramex says it's the glue one that's having issues, but FemSeven Estradiol only patches doesn't seem to have any issues). All FemSeven combi sold after that was the ones in stock, there has been no new manufacturing. The unavailability has caused previous users to switch to Evorel which in turn became unavailable due to increasing demand. The odd thing is that these companies are always spying on each other and this situation should have been anticipated, so there must be other things going on, one of them is China's and EU's medicine legislation's recent changes. Most raw ingredients come from China plants.
Apparently Teva had been selling FemSeven and equivalents only in some European countries and the UK, so that's why other countries are not experiencing HRT shortages.
Teva and Theramex financial issues www.fiercepharma.com/regulatory/teva-closing-up-women-s-health-unit-theramex-thanks-to-lousy-zoely-sales
Estradiol+Levonorgestrel transdermal therapeutic system (TTS), known as 'patch' patent expiration https://patents.google.com/patent/DE19728516C2/en
Patches leaflet errors: www.thieme-connect.com/products/ejournals/abstract/10.1055/a-0722-7419
Patches leaflet omission www.pharmacytimes.com/contributor/alexander-kantorovich-pharmd-bcps/2016/08/transdermal-patches-that-must-be-removed-before-mri
Many different reasons contributing to the current state of affairs.
BeaR.
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I'm so worried about this having heard it on the news today and Evorel saying they had national shortages which wouldn't be resoved until the middle of next year. . I'm taking evorel sequi have put a prescription in but am really worried about whether I'll be able to get any. I've looked on line and all the chemists (that you pay for privately) are saying out of stock. I saw one seemed to have evorel conti so I may try and buy that as it would be better than nothing.
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Bear - I'm sure there are behind the scenes politics going on but I can't quite understand the significance of any of the links in relation to current shortages of HRT in UK, especially the last 3. I think I'm missing something here? :-\ I agree I am sure there are complex reasons though!
However I don't buy the argument put about generally in the media (eg BBC) that it's all down to Femseven being temporarily unavailable (although granted there must be some effect) - after all HRT products are being discontinued all the time and women shift to something else. Also it would not explain the shortages of Elleste - this must be something to do with that company Janssen who makes both the products (Evorel and Elleste). We have never seen the like of this before. There surely must be another explanation? At least we know that RCOG and BMS are looking into it but whether we will get the whole picture who knows? Could it be to do with Brexit?
When HRT shortages become number two story on Radio 4 first thing and lunchtime and there are spokespeople from RCOG and BMS then it must be serious! However to look on the positive side - see how much publicity menopause and HRT is getting - that can only be a good thing (she says as we prepare to sweat and snarl our way through the next few months!).
Let's hope everyone facing difficulties manages to get hold of something that enables them to continue functioning well and happily....
Hurdity x
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I'm so worried about this having heard it on the news today and Evorel saying they had national shortages which wouldn't be resoved until the middle of next year. . I'm taking evorel sequi have put a prescription in but am really worried about whether I'll be able to get any. I've looked on line and all the chemists (that you pay for privately) are saying out of stock. I saw one seemed to have evorel conti so I may try and buy that as it would be better than nothing.
Hi Shropshire Lass I have just got hold of some Evorel Conti from the Independent Pharmacy. I can see however that they are now out of stock as well! I only ordered it a week ago and it was posted to me on Wednesday. I have collected it from the post office depot today. The one which they sent me appears to have been obtained from Belgium and has a different brand name (Systen Conti) but in the same Evorel pink box. I only got 2 boxes of 8 from them.
If they do get more stock in, you don't have to pay the private supply price if you send them an NHS prescription (signed on the back and ticked if you get free prescriptions). I made a photocopy of mine in case it got lost in the post!
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Thanks Katejo x
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hi all,
I managed to get 3 boxes of estradot 50mcgs/ 24hr patches, ( could of had more) but, no hassel , no probs , no begging the unenlightened GP, ordered them in the morning picked them up im the afternoon, but... im in SPAIN! bought them without prescription, @19euros per box The hassel in the uk with it all is enbarassing to say the least! Only hope it is all sorted soonest!
I am going to Spain soon Tracey - do you have any advice? Any particular pharmacy chain to try? Do the products have the same names there? Am assuming if I take in an old packet (I'm on Evorel 50) they will be able to find it on their system.
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Bear - I'm sure there are behind the scenes politics going on but I can't quite understand the significance of any of the links in relation to current shortages of HRT in UK, especially the last 3. I think I'm missing something here? :-\ I agree I am sure there are complex reasons though!
However I don't buy the argument put about generally in the media (eg BBC) that it's all down to Femseven being temporarily unavailable (although granted there must be some effect) - after all HRT products are being discontinued all the time and women shift to something else. Also it would not explain the shortages of Elleste - this must be something to do with that company Janssen who makes both the products (Evorel and Elleste). We have never seen the like of this before. There surely must be another explanation? At least we know that RCOG and BMS are looking into it but whether we will get the whole picture who knows? Could it be to do with Brexit?
When HRT shortages become number two story on Radio 4 first thing and lunchtime and there are spokespeople from RCOG and BMS then it must be serious! However to look on the positive side - see how much publicity menopause and HRT is getting - that can only be a good thing (she says as we prepare to sweat and snarl our way through the next few months!).
Let's hope everyone facing difficulties manages to get hold of something that enables them to continue functioning well and happily....
Hurdity x
Patent expiration means other pharmaceutical companies will have the same product available soon at lower prices, hence Teva's decision to discontinue FemSeven. When Theramex assumed the Women's Health division, it decided to continue producing FemSeven, but supply issues followed and manufacturing stopped.
Patches leaflet's omissions and errors are subject to the new EU medicine legislation, as well as new safety features on medicine packaging. All these factors have influenced the current shortages.
Of course Brexit has a lot to do with it, as a complicating factor, but specialists in the pharmaceutical field say that Brexit is not the main reason, because shortages were already expected due to a number of issues, as pointed out here: https://www.pharmaceutical-journal.com/opinion/editorial/brexit-is-not-the-only-reason-for-medicines-shortages/20206450.article
One more evidence that Brexit is not the main culprit is that HRT drugs are also experiencing shortages in other European countries where FemSeven (other brand names) have become unavailable (Germany, Italy).
Evorel is made by Janssen, Elleste is made by Mylan.
Janssen has already explained that the unavailability of FemSeven was the main reason for an increased demand for Evorel. I have no reason to doubt their explanation. Remember that Janssen is a company headquartered in Belgium but they provide the same product, although with different brand names, to many other countries round the world, they can't just switch products to the UK market to meet the increasing demand, that'll take time (different packages, leaflets, logistics)
Mylan's Elleste raw components come from China that has been experiencing plant closures (mainly due to air pollution) with consequent disruption of supply chains. There are other issues going on at Mylan, but that's beyond this discussion.
BeaR.
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Bear - I'm sure there are behind the scenes politics going on but I can't quite understand the significance of any of the links in relation to current shortages of HRT in UK, especially the last 3. I think I'm missing something here? :-\ I agree I am sure there are complex reasons though!
However I don't buy the argument put about generally in the media (eg BBC) that it's all down to Femseven being temporarily unavailable (although granted there must be some effect) - after all HRT products are being discontinued all the time and women shift to something else. Also it would not explain the shortages of Elleste - this must be something to do with that company Janssen who makes both the products (Evorel and Elleste). We have never seen the like of this before. There surely must be another explanation? At least we know that RCOG and BMS are looking into it but whether we will get the whole picture who knows? Could it be to do with Brexit?
When HRT shortages become number two story on Radio 4 first thing and lunchtime and there are spokespeople from RCOG and BMS then it must be serious! However to look on the positive side - see how much publicity menopause and HRT is getting - that can only be a good thing (she says as we prepare to sweat and snarl our way through the next few months!).
Let's hope everyone facing difficulties manages to get hold of something that enables them to continue functioning well and happily....
Hurdity x
Patent expiration means other pharmaceutical companies will have the same product available soon at lower prices, hence Teva's decision to discontinue FemSeven. When Theramex assumed the Women's Health division, it decided to continue producing FemSeven, but supply issues followed and manufacturing stopped.
Patches leaflet's omissions and errors are subject to the new EU medicine legislation, as well as new safety features on medicine packaging. All these factors have influenced the current shortages.
Of course Brexit has a lot to do with it, as a complicating factor, but specialists in the pharmaceutical field say that Brexit is not the main reason, because shortages were already expected due to a number of issues, as pointed out here: https://www.pharmaceutical-journal.com/opinion/editorial/brexit-is-not-the-only-reason-for-medicines-shortages/20206450.article
One more evidence that Brexit is not the main culprit is that HRT drugs are also experiencing shortages in other European countries where FemSeven (other brand names) have become unavailable (Germany, Italy).
Evorel is made by Janssen, Elleste is made by Mylan.
Janssen has already explained that the unavailability of FemSeven was the main reason for an increased demand for Evorel. I have no reason to doubt their explanation. Remember that Janssen is a company headquartered in Belgium but they provide the same product, although with different brand names, to many other countries round the world, they can't just switch products to the UK market to meet the increasing demand, that'll take time (different packages, leaflets, logistics)
Mylan's Elleste raw components come from China that has been experiencing plant closures (mainly due to air pollution) with consequent disruption of supply chains. There are other issues going on at Mylan, but that's beyond this discussion.
BeaR.
I haven't heard anything about HRT being unavailable in other European countries (except Femseven). I have heard of women here contacting Janssen about the supply problem and being told that they don't have a problem.
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Hello Katejo,
There are shortages of many drugs worldwide, HRT is just one of them. Two discussion forums, one in Germany https://bfriends.brigitte.de/foren/frauengesundheit/528454-hormonpflaster-nicht-mehr-lieferbar-ich-steh-auf-dem-schlauch.html
another in Italy https://menopausaprecoce.forumfree.it/'t=76171613
The unavailability of Theramex's combi patches will eventually impact on the demand for similar products in all countries where Teva used to sell these products.
Regarding Janssen telling ladies that they don't have a problem, I hope that's true, but why would they submit a press release saying the opposite?
(https://i.imgur.com/Zpe73Acl.png)
BeaR.
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Latest update from the BMS:
https://thebms.org.uk/2019/08/british-menopause-society-further-update-on-hrt-supply-shortages/ (https://thebms.org.uk/2019/08/british-menopause-society-further-update-on-hrt-supply-shortages/)
There are no shortages of Estradot >:(.
Thanks for the update Saffy. I also note that there has been a joint statement from RCOG, BMS and the Faculty of Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare about all of this:
https://www.rcog.org.uk/en/news/rcog-bms-and-fsrh-position-on-ongoing-hrt-shortages/
Speculation aside, it does sound like the reasons for the shortages are several and complex but whatever the reasons (including commercial) at least we know that these organisations and the professional gynaecologists are doing their best firstly to find out what the issues are and also putting the pressure on the Department of Health and Social Care to attempt to resolve the situation. Let's hope for better news soon!
Hurdity x
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This situation has become a debacle.
The pharmasist told me this morning the availability lists are already outdated by the time they are circulated. Things are changing daily. He couldnt order estradot 100 on the system so has contacted manufacturer direct but has not received any a week later. Yet on the list they show as available.
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hi da66
I used the independant pharmacy in the town i was holidaying in. I just took the orignial box the patches came in and asked if they could supply me with them. As I said no hassal at all, they were very helpful. The packaging is the same except the info is in Spanish .Hope you get what you need.
:)
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Hello Katejo,
There are shortages of many drugs worldwide, HRT is just one of them. Two discussion forums, one in Germany https://bfriends.brigitte.de/foren/frauengesundheit/528454-hormonpflaster-nicht-mehr-lieferbar-ich-steh-auf-dem-schlauch.html
another in Italy https://menopausaprecoce.forumfree.it/'t=76171613
The unavailability of Theramex's combi patches will eventually impact on the demand for similar products in all countries where Teva used to sell these products.
Regarding Janssen telling ladies that they don't have a problem, I hope that's true, but why would they submit a press release saying the opposite?
(https://i.imgur.com/Zpe73Acl.png)
BeaR.
Hello BeaR I have just had a quick read through a few of the comments in Italian and German. they certainly seem to be having problems. Re Janssen claiming to have stock: I was just referring to a recent discussion on FB in which 1 member was told to ask her pharmacy to contact Janssen directly to order. At that time they did have stock. Maybe they don't now.
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Dr Sarah Jarvis on radio 2 just now talking about shortages and the reasons why. She suggested shortages of evorel started it, and that's had a knock on effect on other hrt's as GP's try to find alternatives. She suggested also that it's a knock on effect from the now famous previously flawed studies, as that has resulted in stocks being low as hrt use has actually gone down in this country (due to said flawed studies)! Apologies if this has already been covered.
I'm going to Spain next week and as evorel is one of the ones affected I'm going to try to stock up. Life is too busy to not be able to function x
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The whole thing is an absolute mess. I cannot manage without Estradot 75ug (no ovaries and after a hormone 'crash' finally settled with this product and took 6 months to get back to normal). The thought of been unable to get this is keeping me awake at night.
I have emailed the MHRA, no response yet. Novartis say that no supply issues, but none appear to be on system at Wholesalers.
Yes, I wish I was going to Spain on holiday to stock up, but Im not (went earlier in year, if hindsight were foresight etc.....).
Rhiner
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I'm feeling very frustrated. I've looked at the list on the BMS website and whilst there are shortages listed it suggests a good number of products are available, specifically ones I have not been able to get hold of for weeks ie, Elleste Solo. So to my mind this list can't be accurate - if there was so much available we wouldn't all be struggling and it wouldn't be so topical in the media.
I've been cold turkey for nearly 3 weeks now and am very distressed, trying Menopace which isn't really doing much. Bad symptoms have really started to kick in again now. I have a GP appointment next week to discuss alternatives and intend to go to the pharmacy first to ask what's available. Already tried this a few times though and the back and forth is difficult ie, the wait for a GP appointment, back & forth to pharmacies, and then some pharmacies not inclined to tell you what they do have in stock.
Really fed up.
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I'm feeling very frustrated. I've looked at the list on the BMS website and whilst there are shortages listed it suggests a good number of products are available, specifically ones I have not been able to get hold of for weeks ie, Elleste Solo. So to my mind this list can't be accurate - if there was so much available we wouldn't all be struggling and it wouldn't be so topical in the media.
I've been cold turkey for nearly 3 weeks now and am very distressed, trying Menopace which isn't really doing much. Bad symptoms have really started to kick in again now. I have a GP appointment next week to discuss alternatives and intend to go to the pharmacy first to ask what's available. Already tried this a few times though and the back and forth is difficult ie, the wait for a GP appointment, back & forth to pharmacies, and then some pharmacies not inclined to tell you what they do have in stock.
Really fed up.
I saw another comment earlier from someone who said that the BMS (and maybe similar sites) are out of date before we get to see them! The Independent Pharmacy (online) does tell you what is in stock. However Evorel Conti has run out there now too. I have enough to last me until about November/early December but then I am stuck. :(
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Estradot are also out of stock at The Independent Pharmacy with this message:
There has been a nationwide shortage with all Estradot products due to a delay in manufacturing.
Currently, the manufacturers are estimating that the item will be available in late 2019.
So, basically, it seems there are no HRT patches available at all?!
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This may explain the source of the problem regarding FemSeven patches and the domino effect on other brands.
https://www.chemistryworld.com/news/chinese-plant-closures-disrupt-supply-chains/3009954.article
Particularly this:
'Preserving supplies
The Chinese government aims to improve air quality by forcibly closing the country's most polluting
factories, which is having knock-on effects around the world.
The crackdown has already triggered a full-fledged supply crisis.
US trade body the Household & Commercial Products Association (HCPA) has been sounding alarm bells
over a shortage of benzisothiazolinone (BIT), a widely used preservative.
US manufacturers obtain a BIT precursor, o-chloronitrobenzene, almost exclusively
from China. A few months after plants producing the substance have been closed down,
the industry is dealing with ‘complete supply destruction', says Steve Bennett, the
HCPA's senior vice president of scientific affairs.
‘This is a situation that has evolved over the past six to eight months and now we are at
a point where there is virtually no BIT – or formulations containing BIT – remaining in
the supply chain,' he says.
Bennett says formulators are switching to alternatives where possible. But BIT – which
is used in paints, cleaning products, adhesives and other consumer products – is tricky
to replace. It has a fairly long lifetime, high utility and fewer of the skin sensitisation
concerns that keep other preservatives from being used in skin-contact products.
In Europe, the substance is one of few preservatives available to the paints and
detergents industries. Here, too, the responsible trade bodies – the International
Association for Soaps, Detergents and Maintenance Products (Aise) and the European
Council of the Paint, Printing Ink and Artists' Colours Industry (Cepe) – are on edge
over what Aise calls a ‘very fragile supply chain'.
BeaR.
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Yes I heard Sarah Jarvis on Radio 2, talking about Everol. I'm on Everol 100mg and have had no problems getting hold of it over the 2.5 years I've been on it! Just lucky I guess.
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Yes I heard Sarah Jarvis on Radio 2, talking about Everol. I'm on Everol 100mg and have had no problems getting hold of it over the 2.5 years I've been on it! Just lucky I guess.
I only started Evorel in April and first became aware of shortages in May!
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I have a week's evorel sequi left. None to be found in my area and my GP's pharmacist is meant to be phoning me to discuss what to do. Can anyone tell me what would be an equivalent to use? I'm so annoyed as it took me so long to go down the patches route and having made my decision am now trying to get on with life and slowly starting to feel a bit better!
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Production of FemSeven Conti was stopped due to the unavailability of the adhesive, yet the Evorel Conti patch is still being manufactured. I wonder what adhesive Janssen use for that then and why can't Theramex use it for their patch? There's probably some patent involved.🤔
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Yes, just as I thought and posted earlier on this thread, it appears to be the main cause of these shortages is a supply and demand issue. It beggars belief that the manufacturers didn't see this coming down the track and increase production before it got to this, what I personally see as, a very serious situation 😡
Rosie x
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Just reading that has made my blood pressure shoot right up countrygirl. Honest to god, when will the message get through? Flax seed oil (was once told to use that by a hospital gynae) will not touch my severe VA and neither will anything other than estrogen. What utter tripe will he suggest when supplies finally run dry... tiptoeing through the early morning dew ,whilst chanting mantras, when the planets are aligned correctly? . Bah! 😡
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😂😂 linz57. I also thought his comments about going to your GP to get something else was a bit flippant. If only it was that simple ! I thought he would have appreciated that it's not as easy as just changing, even if you can get something else, and then going merrily on your way. As we all know, it can take forever to find something else that works for an individual........arggghhh!!!
Rosiex
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I've started a new thread today as I didnt want to butt in on this one too much about myself and I need help deciding what to do.
But just to share, I've basically been told this morning there is only one alternative patch available.(at the moment it is anyway, but pharmasist said "who knows for how long!!!) And one tablet. I was advised when I started not to take the tablet.
I'm so worried as everyone is.
I had my ovaries removed last year and had a huge hormone crash without HRT which made me feel suicidal, my life was literally in danger and I'm not being overdramatic l so it makes me boiling mad that this issue seems to be being treated so flippantly.
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Tc is that the estraderm mx one ? I'm on evorel and was struggling to get it a few weeks ago and was told they were prescribing estradot so I'm guessing it's had a domino effect x
I was the same a real mess before hrt Tc I think the worry of feeling like that again is fuelling my anxiety, that's why I get so upset when they are so flippant about it all x
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CG. He said eastraderm MX is unavailable. Not sure if he was only looking at 100 though.
X
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I've started a new thread today as I didnt want to butt in on this one too much about myself and I need help deciding what to do.
But just to share, I've basically been told this morning there is only one alternative patch available.(at the moment it is anyway, but pharmasist said "who knows for how long!!!) And one tablet. I was advised when I started not to take the tablet.
I'm so worried as everyone is.
I had my ovaries removed last year and had a huge hormone crash without HRT which made me feel suicidal, my life was literally in danger and I'm not being overdramatic l so it makes me boiling mad that this issue seems to be being treated so flippantly.
Hi TC,
can you get your GP to prescribe now and ring round chemists- that is what I did. Look at the HRT treatments at the top of the page also. But I would even ask for a second back up prescription with an alternative and get that too. Hopefully your GP will support you .
PMX
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I went to all the pharmacies in town today to find out which patches are obtainable, prior to a gp appt I have booked for monday. Was told after much searching and waiting that there are none available to order of any type/brand/strength. And most tablets are out of stock too now. Gobsmacked. I'm 42 with a premature menopause diagnosis, and will be struggling to function at all without hrt.
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Hello ladies
It looks like I chose a good time to come off HRT, at least for a while. Mind you, if the wheels come off anytime soon I'll be battering on the pharmacy doors along with the rest of you!
I know someone who works in Boots and at sixty five has finally been prescribed HRT. It happens to be one that's now in short supply. Maybe she should start hiding it under the counter while there's still time!
The flippant attitude of some medics is incredible! We would not be making a fuss if the problem was so easy to fix!
Wishing everyone well.
K.
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Aerogirl try the little ones in small towns or out of the way places as people tend to not want to travel, one lot for me was a 20 mile round trip and another 30 mile round trip, but guessing the next lot will be further than that x
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Thanks Countrygirl. I won't get a new prescription until monday, but am not sure what type to request. Evorel seems to be the worst hit at the moment. I will do some more research and will certainly try some quieter independents.
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I got mine yesterday from an independent. They said they didn't have much call for it, so you just never know where a few boxes may be available. Good luck Aerogirl.
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Again, would this happen if it were men? These tablets can make the difference between being able to function or not. Again would they say just swop if it were anti depressants?
PMX
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Ladies. Since last week .a scrip that couldnt be filled replaced by another scrip that couldnt be filled. And I tried loads of places, sat on the phone best part of the day today.
tThen I thought "this is ar*se about face". It's pointless docs stabbing in the dark at what is available. Their information is out of date. The situation is changing daily. And pharmacists can tell you what they can and cant order if they want to take the time. Mine did. He agreed (after i got on his nerves) that it's the wrong way round to do things In this situation..
So got on his computer, went through everything and told me what IS ACTUALLY available.from manufacturers (in my case it was a choice of one alternative!!) and then in a phone call with GP I filled her in. She accepted that her screen was showing things available which arent and took the pharmacists word. She wrote me a scrip and sent it to pharmacy. Ifingers crossed it doesnt become unavailable by tommorow.
Ladies I believe The GPS information is out of date by the time it reaches them. If a pharmacist will take the time with you as mine did with me they can look at what they are able to order there and then.
I will let you all know if I get my scrip filled tommorow.
And yes. It's always worth making phone calls as you never know what an independent pharmacy might be holding in stock
. Good luck with your efforts everyone xxx
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I found a pharmacist today who actually knew what was going on and had taken some initiative. She told me something that may be helpful to those of you in severe need. She said that Janssen have a small back up supply of Evorel at their own HQ and that a pharmacist may, in a case of serious need, fax the prescription direct to Janssen who will send the patches direct to that pharmacist. She also said that they expect to run out of their back up supply in October and that they told her it will be October 2020 before they are back in stock. Sorry to be the bearer of bad news on that front but hope that the worst off amongst us might be able to get hold of some patches with the direct fax to Janssen 💪 to all!
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The tablets are now in short supply no then are they ?
I see the Viagra ad is back on TV no shortage of them then ? ::)
I wonder how the men who have to have hormone therapy after prostate cancer will go on , as i believe they are given Oestrogen injections
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I found a pharmacist today who actually knew what was going on and had taken some initiative. She told me something that may be helpful to those of you in severe need. She said that Janssen have a small back up supply of Evorel at their own HQ and that a pharmacist may, in a case of serious need, fax the prescription direct to Janssen who will send the patches direct to that pharmacist. She also said that they expect to run out of their back up supply in October and that they told her it will be October 2020 before they are back in stock. Sorry to be the bearer of bad news on that front but hope that the worst off amongst us might be able to get hold of some patches with the direct fax to Janssen 💪 to all!
I heard the same suggestion from someone on the FB VA group. I asked about it when I went to Boots to collect my other medication. The pharmacist explained (as I had predicted to myself) that they were absolutely NOT allowed to do that because it would break their contract with their provider (the middleman who is restricting supplies?). :(
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According to the mail online, Drs are up in arms about this new report and say it might stop women who really need it going off it now through fear
It seems too much of a coincidence to me.that this report has now come out, when the previous one said there wasn't the danger first thought,and NICE approved Drs giving it to patients
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hi all
feel like im in a pastiche of 'midnight express' returning home from holiday with boxes of estradot taped to my midrif 😂😂😂
on the plus side have got twelve months supply 😃
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hi all
feel like im in a pastiche of 'midnight express' returning home from holiday with boxes of estradot taped to my midrif 😂😂😂
on the plus side have got twelve months supply 😃
Was it really easy to find the exact same product? I am a bit envious that you have managed to get a whole year's supply. Approx how much did you have to pay (if you don't mind me asking)?
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I found a pharmacist today who actually knew what was going on and had taken some initiative. She told me something that may be helpful to those of you in severe need. She said that Janssen have a small back up supply of Evorel at their own HQ and that a pharmacist may, in a case of serious need, fax the prescription direct to Janssen who will send the patches direct to that pharmacist. She also said that they expect to run out of their back up supply in October and that they told her it will be October 2020 before they are back in stock. Sorry to be the bearer of bad news on that front but hope that the worst off amongst us might be able to get hold of some patches with the direct fax to Janssen 💪 to all!
I really hope some women have pharmacists who will do this for them. I too contacted Janssen recently and was told my pharmacist could ring them and they would send them direct. All the ones I visited refused to do this 😫
Great news Traceylr, that's got to be a relief. I'm off to Spain shortly and am hoping to buy some patches but it will all depend on the cost. I'll probably only be able to afford around three months supply
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hi all,
I started 'stocking up' in April as had as i mentionined on here had issues getting supplies before then .( fortunately i am prescribed six months supply at each appointment) so usually have a box over before a new script is issued. i ordered 6 boxes from my local lloyds pharmacy before i went on holiday , which they miracuously had no probs getting! i had no probs either getting the exact same patch from the pharmacy in Spain , no hassle and they were very helpful . they cost @19 euros a box so was able to get 9 boxes within 2 weeks plus my stock in hand .
I could have bought more in Spain at the time but hopefully this supply issues will be resolved by the time i need to re stock. Its been a 3 year battle with my gp and finally getting what works for me so theres no way im giving it up without a fight 😂😂Hope others can get whay they need
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20 year fight for me and still not settled on something. Xx I feel this hrt journey has been a joke xx
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20 year fight for me and still not settled on something. Xx I feel this hrt journey has been a joke xx
Hello Butterfly22,
Are you trying to settle on HRT for 20 years? Poor thing, have a hug :hug:
I will read your previous posts, as I'm trying to learn how HRT works (or not).
BeaR.
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Ah thanks bear, I did start early but this carry on with hrt is nothing new to me, just had problems all the time.
I was on nouvelle for about 9 yrs discontinued, then few years to find premique which I was on for two yrs then discontinued yet again.
Took couple more years to take duavine which was hard to get some months then hot flushes came back when I had my hormone levels tested it was to low a dose so I started Estraderm and what do ya know,, can't bloody get it.
I'm so fed up which I could just say to hell with it but I'm still only 45 and could have a long way to go with symptoms plus I have osteopenia and can tell my skin is losing a lot of elasticity compared to others my age and my mum, sis ect.
I just feel like HRT has never been stable. And not enough choice ect. And now this! Xx
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Hello ladies
As I've said before, I seem to have chosen a good time to take a break from HRT. However I still have my stash if I do need to return to it!
I wonder why production problems haven't affected Spain? Perhaps it is just a UK problem or only certain products affected?
Nevertheless let's hope these issues resolve soon. The meno is stressful enough without having this to worry about.
Take Care ladies.
K.
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Hello ladies
As I've said before, I seem to have chosen a good time to take a break from HRT. However I still have my stash if I do need to return to it!
I wonder why production problems haven't affected Spain? Perhaps it is just a UK problem or only certain products affected?
Nevertheless let's hope these issues resolve soon. The meno is stressful enough without having this to worry about.
Take Care ladies.
K.
Hi Kathleen. Another member recently sent me links to 2 forums similar to MM in Germany and Italy. I browsed the comments. It seems that the problem is affecting other countries. Why Spain has escaped I don't know.
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Collected my prescription of Evorel Conti and been told all they can give me is 16 patches due to the shortage. They said they are not hopeful that they will get anymore in when i go back for more :'(. I told them there are going to be a lot of angry out of control women if they don't get them ;D. I have been on these for the last 8 years and they have worked well for me, the thought of trying to find a replacement fills me with dread knowing how it can take a wee while to find the one that works for you. Think i might try coming off these over the next two months to see how i will do without.
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Collected my prescription of Evorel Conti and been told all they can give me is 16 patches due to the shortage. They said they are not hopeful that they will get anymore in when i go back for more :'(. I told them there are going to be a lot of angry out of control women if they don't get them ;D. I have been on these for the last 8 years and they have worked well for me, the thought of trying to find a replacement fills me with dread knowing how it can take a wee while to find the one that works for you. Think i might try coming off these over the next two months to see how i will do without.
I had exactly the same when i tried to get some from a local pharmacy in July. They still owe me a pack of 8. Since then I have managed to get 16 from the Independent Pharmacy (online) but they have since run out. I only started using them in April.
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Having switched from Fem7 to Evorel earlier this year due to supply problems (related to the adhesive component, NOT Brexit!) I am now scrabbling around trying to find Evorel Conti 🙄
If I am advised by one more Pharmacist to "see my GP regarding alternatives" I am going to explode 😡
It is as if you are changing your brand of coffee, not a prescription medication.
From what I gather, it seems that the shortages will be with us (UK) for at least 6 months, if not longer?
Fem7 is now 12/12 out of supply already, and Theramex is still faffing about with its 'chemistry set' trying to get the glue sorted; you could not make it up ....
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Ah thanks bear, I did start early but this carry on with hrt is nothing new to me, just had problems all the time.
I was on nouvelle for about 9 yrs discontinued, then few years to find premique which I was on for two yrs then discontinued yet again.
Took couple more years to take duavine which was hard to get some months then hot flushes came back when I had my hormone levels tested it was to low a dose so I started Estraderm and what do ya know,, can't bloody get it.
I'm so fed up which I could just say to hell with it but I'm still only 45 and could have a long way to go with symptoms plus I have osteopenia and can tell my skin is losing a lot of elasticity compared to others my age and my mum, sis ect.
I just feel like HRT has never been stable. And not enough choice ect. And now this! Xx
Butterfly22,
So sorry you have been through this hell, not fair. Have you ever considered sharing your story with the BBC or other media? It could be really interesting to tell your story of many years on HRT, suffering with discontinuations and shortages, especially during this huge shortage.
BeaR.
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Hello ladies
As I've said before, I seem to have chosen a good time to take a break from HRT. However I still have my stash if I do need to return to it!
I wonder why production problems haven't affected Spain? Perhaps it is just a UK problem or only certain products affected?
Nevertheless let's hope these issues resolve soon. The meno is stressful enough without having this to worry about.
Take Care ladies.
K.
Hi Kathleen. Another member recently sent me links to 2 forums similar to MM in Germany and Italy. I browsed the comments. It seems that the problem is affecting other countries. Why Spain has escaped I don't know.
Hello Katejo and Kathleen,
It was me, I think Spain has been spared because FemSeven (or equivalent) has not been marketed over there.
You can see all FemSeven equivalents in this site, which by the way is Spanish.
https://www.vademecum.es/equivalencia-lista-femseven+sequi+transdermal+patch+50+%C3%A3%C2%A2%C3%A2%C2%B5g%2F24+h+-+50+%C3%A3%C2%A2%C3%A2%C2%B5g%2F24+h+10+%C3%A3%C2%A2%C3%A2%C2%B5g%2F24+h-reino+unido-g03fb09-gb_1
Sorry, had to modify the post, link was page 2 instead of page 1.
BeaR.
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Eesh I've never thought about that, would not know where to start xx
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Eesh I've never thought about that, would not know where to start xx
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/10725415
BeaR.
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Thank you 😘
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BBC Breakfast spent a lot of time on menopause fairly recently:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p079jdfl
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Brilliant, Jenna. I hope your story gets published, 🦋22!
BeaR.
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Thank you xx
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I have a gp appt tomorrow morning. Currently on evorel 75mg patches with utrogestan tablets. I don't expect to be able to source evorel now. The BMS list says Elleste patches, Estraderm, and Estradot patches are all still available. Is that the case in reality? I'm trying to opt for a prescription I have a chance of filling.
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I called my nearest largest boots store and they said any patches are hard to get if anyone dose get any it's luck. Xx
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A couple of days ago someone on another site had a response from Janssen re Evorel conti and I am sure it's OK to reproduce it here as it's a standard letter with nothing personal. Apologies if this has been written before as it's a long thread - which I have read but not all in one go so have forgotten some of the posts! (Brain or rather memory doesn't work like it used to now I'm getting older!). I have put in bold the important bit. Note they state also that the unavailability of Femseven is only partly the reason for increased demand...
"Thank you for your recent enquiry regarding Evorel®(estradiol) and the reasons behind the interruption to supply.
As you may be aware, the stock situation around estradiol transdermal patches in Europe has evolved rapidly over recent months and continues to do so, impacting several manufacturers, including Janssen. We continue to experience an unprecedented increase in demand for the Evorel range of products, due in part to the lack of availability of alternative hormone replacement therapies (HRT) not produced by Janssen.
So far this year, demand in the UK has already exceeded that of the whole of 2018 depleting all surplus stock. As a result, we are unfortunately anticipating a complete interruption to supply across the product range from October 2019, although certain patches may stock out earlier than this date. We are working on a return to full supply by mid-2020.
We understand the urgency of the situation and have already taken steps to prolong continuity of supply for as long as possible; including diverting as much Evorel stock as possible to the UK from countries where demand is not as high. This additional stock consists largely of Evorel Conti patches which has the highest demand. We have, and will continue to, allocate all available stock to those countries with the highest unmet need including the UK.
Evorel products are still being supplied whilst available. If your pharmacy is encountering problems in ordering the product, they can contact our Customer Services team directly on 01494 567400 for further information on availability. We also recommend that you consult your healthcare professional directly with regard to HRT options and potential alternatives.
The charity organization British Menopause Society, an independent service to advise, reassure and educate women have published a summary update which is very helpful and provides up to date information on availability of HRT products in the UK: https://thebms.org.uk/
The ABPI Code of Practice for the Pharmaceutical Industry does not allow pharmaceutical companies to provide medical advice to patients, comment on their personal medical matters, or suggest the most appropriate medicine for their treatment. We recommend you contact your prescribing/treating physician, GP, pharmacist or nurse to discuss such matters instead; they will have access to your medical history and are best placed to advise you on the most appropriate course of action. If they require specialist information on any of our products we would be happy to help.
If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor, pharmacist or nurse. This includes any possible side effects not listed in the package leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the Yellow Card Scheme at: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store. You can also call Janssen-Cilag Ltd Drug Safety on +44 (0) 1494 567447.
By reporting side effects you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.
I hope this information is useful.
Sent on behalf of
Medical Information Department
Janssen-Cilag Ltd
50-100 Holmers Farm Way
High Wycombe
Bucks
HP12 4EG
Tel: +44 (0) 1494 567 444
Fax: +44 (0) 1494 567 445
Hope this helps :)
Hurdity x
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Thank you for that information. I use the evorel conti patches. I did speak to janssen a month ago regarding the shortage and my pharmacist did get them directly from them. Just hope when I ask again in a month they still have some in stock
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Hi vickypk, is yours a small independent chemist or part of a big chain? The reason I ask is because Lloyd's refused to ring Janssen on the phone number provided, so I can't get the patches that way :(
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Hi vickypk, is yours a small independent chemist or part of a big chain? The reason I ask is because Lloyd's refused to ring Janssen on the phone number provided, so I can't get the patches that way :(
Boots said the same. They have a contract with a provider and have to stick to it.
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Yes it's an independent chemist. My pharmacist was happy to do this for me. I am surprised to hear some pharmacists won't do this. I found it all very straight forward. Hope this is all sorted out soon.
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I found an independent pharmacy this morning that had two packs of evorel 75mg patches. Thank goodness I'm ok now for a couple of months, and have an order waiting in case more supplies are found. Boots had no patches of any sort!
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Yep - an independent chemist got 12 Evorel 50 patches for me direct from Janssen today but said that Janssen told her that they expect to run out of their own stock by end of next week. I suppose that might be different for other dosages.
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Hi vickypk, is yours a small independent chemist or part of a big chain? The reason I ask is because Lloyd's refused to ring Janssen on the phone number provided, so I can't get the patches that way :(
Boots said the same. They have a contract with a provider and have to stick to it.
Not very customer friendly are they? I'll not forget the unhelpful attitude and will take my custom elsewhere in the future.
Glad to hear your pharmacist helped you out Vickypk👍
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My pharmacy attached to GP practise cant get me any more Everol 100 patches, despite them being shown on their system as available to order. They order them for me, then they dont come in. Ive tried independent pharmacies and Boots without success. Boots wont ring Janssen as say they have to follow their procedure and I need to submit a script first. But of course, no point asking for another script if they cant get them, as will then have to go back to GP to change the script to another product, which will probably also be out of stock because pharmacies cant tell me what, if anything, they can get!!!
I heard on Radio 2 phone in last week that a woman had got Everol 25 patches at a pharmacy in Italy for 8 euros, while on holiday there. So I've asked my daughter in Luxembourg to try to get some for me.
Does anyone know if they are still available in USA, as going to visit my son there next week?
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My pharmacy attached to GP practise cant get me any more Everol 100 patches, despite them being shown on their system as available to order. They order them for me, then they dont come in. Ive tried independent pharmacies and Boots without success. Boots wont ring Janssen as say they have to follow their procedure and I need to submit a script first. But of course, no point asking for another script if they cant get them, as will then have to go back to GP to change the script to another product, which will probably also be out of stock because pharmacies cant tell me what, if anything, they can get!!!
I heard on Radio 2 phone in last week that a woman had got Everol 25 patches at a pharmacy in Italy for 8 euros, while on holiday there. So I've asked my daughter in Luxembourg to try to get some for me.
Does anyone know if they are still available in USA, as going to visit my son there next week?
Do you know whether the lady in Italy was able to buy them OTC? I am going to Italy very soon and intended to investigate this.
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Hi My mum is going to spain in October
I am on evoerel 75, but am prepared to take any other oestrogen only patch.
Can anyone tell me what patches spanish pharmacies sell so I can ask my mum if she will buy me some.
Thanks
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Does anyone know if they are still available in USA, as going to visit my son there next week?
Hi Rose B,
I've asked a friend in US and apparently there's no HRT shortages over there. All products available.
BeaR.
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Hi My mum is going to spain in October
Boots and Lloyds have ran out of the evorel 75 that I use.
I'm now cutting a quarter of the old evorel 100 patches I got before my doctor reduced them in July due to abnormal bleeding.
The patches are in date but I have some questions about getting oestrogen only patches in spain please as my mum is going in October.
1) I am prepared to use other brand patches if she can't get evorel, she doesn't speak spanish, what patches can you get in spain please?
2) How will she know what to ask for with not speaking spanish as they have to be pure oestrogen as I am on utrogestan.
Thanks.
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Dandelion they are called evopad in Spain, but are the same x
I've asked someone to see if they can get me some so sent them with a evorel box and repeat form so hopefully they can see I've been prescribed them, didn't know what else to do x
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Dandelion they are called evopad in Spain, but are the same x
I've asked someone to see if they can get me some so sent them with a evorel box front with gps label on and my repeat prescription form so hopefully they can see I've been prescribed them, didn't know what else to do x
Hi countrygirl, sorry you are going through trouble.
Sorry to ask more questions, is evopad oestrogen only?
Do I need to give my mum a prescription form to get them?
Do they do evopad 75, I googled it but could only find spanish info
Thanks
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Another lady on here bought some last month over there, if you pop evopad in the search it should bring it up I think the thread was about buying patches in Spain.
Evopad is the brand name, I had no idea what was needed or what to ask for besides the brand, so I just sent what I had and hoped that as it states evorel 50 they will know it's the oestrogen type only as I've never done it before x
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Another lady on here bought some last month over there, if you pop evopad in the search it should bring it up I think the thread was about buying patches in Spain.
Evopad is the brand name, I had no idea what was needed or what to ask for besides the brand, so I just sent what I had and hoped that as it states evorel 50 they will know it's the oestrogen type only x
Hi Countrygirl, I found the thread on evopad. Thanks, i,ve asked if they do 75mcg, hope someone can help.
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This whole fandango is making my blood boil especially the likes of Boots and Lloyds refusing to step outside their bloody ridiculous procedures :steamed:. there's absolutely no point in their sticking to procedures in these EXTRAORDINARY circumstances. The wholesalers are out of stock. Janssen may still have some. They should bloody well be serving their PATIENTS - aaarghh! We should all complain!
On another note, in case it is of help to anyone - my specialist menopause clinic were organising calls to all their patients who had questions last week. One of the gynaecologists rang me and said she would write to my GP asking her to prescribe generic estradiol from now on so that I could get whatever was in stock - Evorel (not likely!), estradot, estraderm etc etc. She said any patch with estradiol as the only ingredient was the same was any other. She also asked me if I was willing to try estradiol gel and explained it was the same only via a different route. She said she would write to the GP to explain how to dose the gel.
I am going to Spain next week with a repeat chit and an empty box to show them and will report back as to how I get on.
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Does anyone know if they are still available in USA, as going to visit my son there next week?
Hi Rose B,
I've asked a friend in US and apparently there's no HRT shortages over there. All products available.
Thanks thats helpful. I will take an empty box and repeat prescription form with me, and hope can get some (at not too exorbitant a price!!).
My daughter has told me they are available in Luxembourg but she'll need a prescription on my behalf. Presumably not an NHS one? She has asked colleagues in Spain and Italy for availability too.
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The woman I heard on Radio 2 talking about buying Everol in Italy whilst on holiday, apparently just told pharmacist that she had forgotten to take them with her, and got them OTC.
What gets me about the whole debacle, is the disinterested shrug I've been greeted with over and over again at pharmacies. And how many don't seem to even know about the HRT shortage.
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Hi ladies, I don't take hrt and haven't read the thread, but thought I'd just post this as just saw on Jeremy vine show this morning. Dr David Bull said there are problems with hrt shortages, due to problems within the company that makes it and efficacy of the product. He didn't mention which one it was. Anyway just thought I'd say incase it helps. You can watch the programme back on channel 5 catch up if you want to. X
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Not especially to do with the shortage of patches, but wondering how many different patches there are
I was looking in the MM list of HRTs, and there aren't that many different patches, so is most HRT tablets?or are not all patches listed?
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Hi ladies, I don't take hrt and haven't read the thread, but thought I'd just post this as just saw on Jeremy vine show this morning. Dr David Bull said there are problems with hrt shortages, due to problems within the company that makes it and efficacy of the product. He didn't mention which one it was. Anyway just thought I'd say incase it helps. You can watch the programme back on channel 5 catch up if you want to. X
The problem product is Femseven which has lead to women switching to Evorel which has now run out.
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Has anyone heard any update on FemSeven? Perhaps it's time I ambushed Theramex with another email.
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Has anyone heard any update on FemSeven? Perhaps it's time I ambushed Theramex with another email.
Hi roseandthorn,
I don't know about FemSeven, but I was browsing LinkedIn a couple of weeks ago and I saw Theramex has been opening many job positions. This one caught my attention, Head of External Manufacturing. They must be reorganising the whole company! I'll see if I can find a link, I remember thinking that this was interesting info, but now I forgot what exactly.
It's not online anymore but I had saved it on my LinkedIn account:
BeaR.
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Has anyone heard any update on FemSeven? Perhaps it's time I ambushed Theramex with another email.
Hi roseandthorn,
I don't know about FemSeven, but I was browsing LinkedIn a couple of weeks ago and I saw Theramex has been opening many job positions. This one caught my attention, Head of External Manufacturing. They must be reorganising the whole company! I'll see if I can find a link, I remember thinking that this was interesting info, but now I forgot what exactly.
It's not online anymore but I had saved it on my LinkedIn account:
BeaR.
;D Very amusing! Nowt to do with HRT supply issues though!!
Hurdity x
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On the thread about buying HRT in Spain the issue of manufacturing shortages was mentioned so though I would post my views on here as it's not about Spain specifically. I posed on that thread about obtaining patches in France for any patch users who are interested and have a UK prescription. Incidentally after Brexit (which hopefully won't happen and at least now there could be a deal with EU to remain in sinlge market maybe?) - I wonder if our UK prescriptions could be used?
This is from the other thread:
Just a thought-
If there is no supply problems elsewhere in Europe, it means that there is not a ‘manufacturing problem'. The suspicious kind of bird I am has to ask is it deliberate?- either through stockpiling for an imagined Brexit Armageddon or restricting stock as us brits are not playing ball........
I know nothing about the supply chain except that it could be something to do with companies who buy the HRT directly from the manufacturers and then supply down the line eventually to our pharmacies. It could be that current stocks are still plentiful in continental Europe (maybe less demand) but are held in stock somewhere in the supply chain in other countries ( if not in UK?) and in order to supply UK with more would involve manufacturing as presumably different companies are involved in distribution to different countries?
Personally I would say it is pointless investigating the (boring!) ramifications of which company buys which product from whom - we can do nothing about this - but the upshot of whatever it is, is our shortage!!!!
Re Femseven - products are reformulated every now and again. I think the differnce with this one is that rather than discontinue it permanently and reissue as a different product - it does appear that the same product is going to be improved - fingers crossed for all those who liked it!
Hurdity x
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Incidentally after Brexit (which hopefully won't happen and at least now there could be a deal with EU to remain in sinlge market maybe?) - I wonder if our UK prescriptions could be used?
Hurdity x
What deal?
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;D
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Has anyone heard any update on FemSeven? Perhaps it's time I ambushed Theramex with another email.
Hi roseandthorn,
I don't know about FemSeven, but I was browsing LinkedIn a couple of weeks ago and I saw Theramex has been opening many job positions. This one caught my attention, Head of External Manufacturing. They must be reorganising the whole company! I'll see if I can find a link, I remember thinking that this was interesting info, but now I forgot what exactly.
It's not online anymore but I had saved it on my LinkedIn account:
BeaR.
;D Very amusing! Nowt to do with HRT supply issues though!!
Hurdity x
Do you want me to explain?
BeaR.
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Thanks for the offer - but no thanks!!
We await a reformulation of the product in due course....
Hurdity x
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Seems there's a problem with the company and efficacy of the product?!
Do you have more news BeaR?
X
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You're welcome, Hurdity.
For anyone who might be interested...
https://www.moodys.com/research/Moodys-assigns-B2-CFR-to-IWH-UK-Finco-Limited--PR_375155
The important bit:
More negatively, the B2 rating also reflects (1) an overall limited scale with revenues of around $270 million on a last twelve months (LTM) basis; (2) the company's reliance upon a more limited set of products to drive growth over the life of the loan facilities; (3) lack of track record as a stand-alone group operator with some uncertainties over central costs and standalone operations; (4) a degree of execution risk as Theramex exits from the ownership of Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd (Baa3 negative) and evolves into a stand-alone entity; (5) the risk of supply chain shortages as Theramex is a pure sales & marketing organization.
Hi Jari,
Not really, actually I wasn't looking for them, I deal with pharma business and that job position appeared on my Linkedin notifications.
I think Theramex said it's going to take a while to sort the adhesive and test the new patch, 2020 probably.
BeaR.
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There is a dedicated thread to issues around Femseven so bear you might want to post your detailed info about the company on that thread so that Femseven users may read and benefit, as this thread is more about the general issue of shortages and for updating about products. Just a thought. I'll hunt and bump...
Huridty x
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BeaR - thank you for this info, really detailed and helpful. I've recently used fem7 sequi and been least ‘hurt' by the prog element therein. Just my luck they're out of stock for a while!
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BeaR - thank you for this info, really detailed and helpful. I've recently used fem7 sequi and been least ‘hurt' by the prog element therein. Just my luck they're out of stock for a while!
Hi KiltedCupid,
I like your username and sense of humour :)
I see from another post that you have tried all progestogens available? For how long have you been trying different HRT?
BeaR.
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Thank you BeaR - my name is from a wedding planning business I was trying to establish but which my ex kept trying to sabotage as it didn't suit his agenda. Upshot - I got rid of him!
Aaanyhoo, I'm well post meno and tried everything, and I mean everything since around age 48/49 (now 57) except the ‘prem' hrt. After long and weary trials I've established I just can't tolerate prog anymore. Fem7 was least hurtful but I was only using half patch and after 2 weeks, I really couldn't function.
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Thank you BeaR - my name is from a wedding planning business I was trying to establish but which my ex kept trying to sabotage as it didn't suit his agenda. Upshot - I got rid of him!
Aaanyhoo, I'm well post meno and tried everything, and I mean everything since around age 48/49 (now 57) except the ‘prem' hrt. After long and weary trials I've established I just can't tolerate prog anymore. Fem7 was least hurtful but I was only using half patch and after 2 weeks, I really couldn't function.
Oh dear, I'm sorry to hear about your marriage, still great sense of humour, yay!
I see you have a thread on your progesterone intolerance. Off to read.
Bear.
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Seems there's a problem with the company and efficacy of the product?!
X
Like I said - all the info about the product is in this thread including the replies from Theramex about the reformulation: https://www.menopausematters.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,42226.0.html
Information on product availability is being regularly provided by the main menopause organisations/doctors - the BMS and Dr Louise Newson for example.
Hurdity x
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By the way - heard a great podcast today (apols if it's been posted before!) from 8th September
https://play.acast.com/s/standardissuespodcast/66f9ef23-344c-463f-a424-eb1d0f42668b?autoplay
"SIM Ep 274 Chops 120: The HRT crisis
With women all over the country struggling to get their HRT prescriptions filled, are we in a women's health crisis? As part of our special series about the menopause, Hannah chats to Dr Anne Henderson about what is causing the HRT shortage, what women can do if they are affected and what the rest of us can do to help. They also chat about the paper recently printed in the Lancet linking HRT to breast cancer, and Hannah learned something about how few doctors receive training in the menopause at all. "
Consultant gynaecologist Dr Anne Henderson was interviewed and her view of the shortages was illuminating to say the least.
Again apols if this has all been said already.
The main points were:
1 Current HRT shortages are nothing to do with Brexit despite reports in the media. She says many of the products now out of stock or in short supply are not manufactured in the EU but eg China and US so should be unaffected by (no-deal/trade agreement Brexit). By contrasts, Besins which manufactures our HRT in Belgium - ie in EU has plentiful supplies of its products. She says the issue is EU wide and once stock in other EU countries has been exhausted then it will affect these countries too until supply is increased.
2 She laid the blame for UK shortages at the feet of Govt and the major pharmaceutical companies who have "dropped the ball"- but sounds like the Dept of Health. She says that specific government departments at the DoH closely monitor prescribing trends in all drugs - for obvious reasons - and pass the info to the pharmas who can then anticipate trends towards increased use and consequently increase production. Menopause specialists have known for 18-24 months that there has been an increase in women seeking advice on menopause and being prescribed HRT (my comment - maybe as a result of NICE Guidelines?) and this has not been picked up by Government and the main pharma companies who produce most of the market share - notably Janssen and Mylan. Janssen has something 40 % of the market share for patches. The minor problem re Femseven wasn't mentioned so may well be insignificant compared with these big companies in terms of the current shortages. She said that the big companies' were not producing niche products (as they had a large market share) so when their supply is drying up then it has had a very quick domino effect on other products ( aside from Femseven - a different issue - but hasn't helped at this time!).
Anyway she said a lot more but these were the main points about the role of the DoH - she basically said that someone somewhere hasn't been doing their job because the infrastructure and system is there to ensure that this sort of thing doesn't happen.
Hope I have captured her main points accurately! Do listen for yourself if you have time. The Lancet paper was mentioned briefly too.
Food for thought?
Hurdity x
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Hi!
I would be easy to blame someone in DoH but if this situation is similar in whole Europe then it's nothing to do with DoH in UK.
It looks like producer that dominates market got complacent and screwed up....?
For sure, they all now seem to point fingers at each other. Will take months before we'll know.
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Yes good point but depends I suppose also on UK market share too? I got the impression that they (menoexperts and gynaes) didn't know exactly at this stage but a combination of factors involving DoH and Pharma - hopefully at some point they will tell us!
Hurdity x
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I live in Spain & there isn't a shortage of HRT from the same manufactures as UK so why should there be a shortage in UK?
Something is wrong somewhere
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I live in Spain & there isn't a shortage of HRT from the same manufactures as UK so why should there be a shortage in UK?
Something is wrong somewhere
Hi paisley,
Do you know if there is an equivalent of FemSeven in Spain, produced by Theramex?
BeaR.
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Hi Ladies,
do we know/ is there a prediction on when supply will be back to normal?
Call me cynical but I wonder if the recent scare mongering head lines on HRT were timed to get rid of a few users?- therefore reducing demand. Just a thought.
Peppermintyx
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BeaR - sadly not. And I've searched! Nada, not even a similar product.
I'd love to be proved wrong.
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BearR
No they don't. In Spain they do estradot & evopad which is the brand name for elleste solo
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..but, Ladies, I've just looked at the Parliament's petition page with the 'End the HRT shortage - ensure HRT is available on the NHS for all who require it' petition and there is only 1,055 signatures!
What's up?!!? Pls, sign!
https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/269248
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Signed
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Signed.
My GP gave me 3 monthly prescription for Evoril Conti today, he obviously had no idea there is a shortage.
My chemist had half the amount I needed, I rang around another 8 chemists. None at any of them and no idea when they will next get some. Was told to go back to GP for alternative.
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..but, Ladies, I've just looked at the Parliament's petition page with the 'End the HRT shortage - ensure HRT is available on the NHS for all who require it' petition and there is only 1,055 signatures!
What's up?!!? Pls, sign!
https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/269248
Signed! 👍
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Signed. Got a prescription for evorel conti today. Handed in to my pharmacist, he said he will have them next week. Hope so.
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Drs managed to get my evorel direct from manufacturers, it took a week x
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Hi Country girl
Glad you got yours okay. I spoke to my pharmacist on Friday he said it should be in early this week
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Went to Dr's today for review appt, they are able to get my Everol 100mg patches direct from the manufacturer which is good news. Really didn't want to have to change.
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Signed
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Signed still only 1072 signatures :'(
Does anyone who lives in or visits Spain frequently know if a 'Conti patch' is available there, I use Everol 50 have enough to last until Dec then panic will set in.
We are going to Spain Feb -June, I normally get an early script so take 3mths supply with me, plus what I have left from prior script, just the thought of no HRT and 24/7 hot sweats is sending me into a dark mood, if there was any chance of getting Conti patches in Spain, I would buy no matter what the price..
Both Lloyds & Boots said they have contracts and must keep to them..my Gp also seems lost re anything to do with HRT. :(
So pleased for you ladies who have managed to get your HRT :-* :-* but it should not be like this for us.!!! xx
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Rose bush I bought evopad 50 (it's evorels Spanish name) but I also remember seeing on here someone bought evopad conti x
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Went to Dr's today for review appt, they are able to get my Everol 100mg patches direct from the manufacturer which is good news. Really didn't want to have to change.
Good news but isn't Evorel going to be unobtainable after the end of October until mid 2020? I think that's confirmed on the link posted previously :-\
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Sorry if this has been dealt with already but is there a way of using your NHS prescription to get the product online, paying for it of course? I'm prepared to pay for my Evorel 100 patches (and utregestan if necessary) until the product is available again in mid 2020 but I don't know how to do that. Any suggestions or experiences would be so helpful. Thanks
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You can do that, but it's finding an online pharmacy that has any in stock as I had a look the other day and couldn't find any in the uk. I have read that people are using online pharmacies abroad but I think you also have to pay for an online consultation x
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Sorry if this has been dealt with already but is there a way of using your NHS prescription to get the product online, paying for it of course? I'm prepared to pay for my Evorel 100 patches (and utregestan if necessary) until the product is available again in mid 2020 but I don't know how to do that. Any suggestions or experiences would be so helpful. Thanks
I did that through Independent Pharmacy and got a small stock of Evorel conti but the following week they had run out. I just had to email them and post my signed NHS prescription to them. I didn't have to pay because I have medical exemption. I suspect that they are still out of stock but haven't checked online since I got my order.
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Went to Dr's today for review appt, they are able to get my Everol 100mg patches direct from the manufacturer which is good news. Really didn't want to have to change.
Good news but isn't Evorel going to be unobtainable after the end of October until mid 2020? I think that's confirmed on the link posted previously :-\
Yes as far as I'm aware, both the Gp & pharmacist said they are not having problems getting hold of it not sure if it's because I'm on the 100's.
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You can do that, but it's finding an online pharmacy that has any in stock as I had a look the other day and couldn't find any in the uk. I have read that people are using online pharmacies abroad but I think you also have to pay for an online consultation x
Thanks Countrygirl. I think you're right. I have 6 weeks supply left but want to try and make provision for after that. Has anyone switched from Evorel patches to Oestrogel? That's assuming that Oestrogel is still available...
My GP is lovely but she tends to prescribe without any awareness of what's actually available. I'm on my fourth change of product since January - all because of supply issues. I was settled on Evorel Conti but have been switched to Kliovan, Evorel 50 and utregestan and now Evorel 100 and utregestan. Any experiences or advice gratefully received x
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Hi girls,
Some online pharmacies are already out of stock of Estradot. Oxford online only has the 25 patches.
BeaR.
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I got estraderm patches online recently no problem. I bought the 100's as it's better value to chop them up to 25's.
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Erm..., isn't Estraderm a reservoir patch that cannot be cut?
BeaR.
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Hi BeaR - mine aren't, they're just like evorel, but bigger.
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Ah, yes, Estraderm MX! ;)
BeaR.
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I managed to get their last box of evorel sequi from Sainsburys pharmacy today. As I suspect there will be no more next month I am thinking of cutting them in half to make them last 2 months and if I feel ok going cold turkey. I really dont want to swap to another type of hrt again. Has anyone else done this?
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Hi all. Got my evorel conti patches today from my chemist. Pleased all was okay
Vicky x
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Hi all. Got my evorel conti patches today from my chemist. Pleased all was okay
Vicky x
Is that an independent chemist? I can't get any.
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Hi girls,
Theramex is finally talking https://inews.co.uk/opinion/comment/hormone-replacement-therapy-uk-shortage-women-498769
BeaR.
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Hi katejo. Yes it is an independent chemist. The pharmacist is happy to get the patches direct from the manufacturers.
Vicky x
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I managed to get their last box of evorel sequi from Sainsburys pharmacy today. As I suspect there will be no more next month..
My Sainsbury's pharmacy has said that there will be no more Evorel available after the end of October until mid 2020 so hopefully you will get yours next month. I'm lucky in that I don't need progesterone due to hysterectomy and I've been rationing mine for the last few months on the advice of both pharmacist and GP. I've got three months saved up now. I've had a few flushes lately though. Hope it's all resolved by next year!
Taz x
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I'm just back from Palma Majorca ... I went into 8 pharmacies (everywhere I went) , all so helpful but I only managed to buy 3 boxes of evopad 50 (Evorel 50) they did have a couple boxes of 25 strength, they all checked stock/tried to order but showed me on the computer they were unable to due to supplier problems...
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Hi girls,
How many women in the UK are on HRT?
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/hrt-hormone-therapy-shortage-women-menopause-mental-health-a9091981.html 3,400,000 women age 50-64, 12% 400,000 and 2,500,000 prescriptions/year
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-49308083 (1,000,000)
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2019/08/10/national-hrt-shortage-leaves-200000-menopausal-women-suffering/ 200,000
https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng23/documents/menopause-draft-guideline-nice2 NICE 17% 1,000,00
https://menopausesupport.co.uk/?page_id=60 13,000,000 are peri or postmenopausal
My own calculations:
https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/populationandmigration/populationestimates/articles/overviewoftheukpopulation/august2019
Considering that 12% is the right figure of women on HRT in the UK (despite NICE's 17%) and that around 3,400,000 women are between age 50-64, around 400,000 women in the UK are on HRT and get an average of 6-7 prescriptions/year, which corroborates the annual 2,500,000 prescriptions.
If you consider all women over 50 (peri and postmenopausal) you have around 12,276,000 women (13,000,000) and if 12% are on HRT, 1,473,120 women are on HRT
Maybe that's another factor contributing to the shortages, bad statistics! How can the pharmaceutical companies project sales and manufacturing numbers if the basic HRT users stats are not consistent?
BeaR.
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Update about Elleste products produced by Mylan. I hope I'm not duplicating stuff that's already been posted as I don't have time to read most of the posts! This information was sent to health professionals and publicised on another site and I have been given permission to reproduce:
"We have received an update on HRT products produced by MYLAN - Elleste Solo 1mg and 2mg, Elleste Duet 1mg and 2mg, Elleste Duet Conti 2mg- Earlier this year MYLAN informed Health Care Professionals that their third party manufacturing partner was experiencing an interruption in the production of the above products. At that time they anticipated a temporary interruption which would be resolved by mid 2019. To ensure the stable supply of Elleste oral tablets in the future MYLAN will be transferring the production of Elleste to a MYLAN owned and operated facility. This transfer is in progress and they anticipate production to resume by the second half of 2020. In the meantime any stock of Elleste oral tablets in the market is available to order and prescribe by your HCP. Once that has supply has been depleted they will not be replenished until the site transfer process has been completed. This does NOT affect the transdermal patches Elleste Solo MX 40mcg and 80mcg"
Hurdity x
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Thank you, Hurdity.
What the heck is going to happen by mid 2020? Janssen's Evorel will be available mid 2020, Theramex's FemSeven will be available mid 2020 and now Mylan's Elleste? Is is possible that all these products have a common denominator? A new patent?
Coincidentally...
Fem7 in Germany was being manufactured by Mylan GMBH for Teva and subsequently for Theramex Ireland https://www.docmorris.de/fem7-50-g-transdermale-pflaster/07525728
Mylan's transdermal patch patent has recently expired https://patents.google.com/patent/US5948433A/en.
That's why Teva has decided to stop manufacturing FemSeven patches. When Theramex decided to reformulate them, it was too late, Mylan wasn't interested (patent expiration) and Lohmann LTS wasn't interested (patent expiration, see my post on the FemSeven discontinuation thread).
The glue issues may be genuine (although I'm puzzled that the estradiol only patches are still being marketed), but it's not the whole picture.
BeaR.
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Well at least hopefully Besins products will still be available - unless the rush for gel creates a shortage there...
Hurdity x
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Thank you, Hurdity.
What the heck is going to happen by mid 2020? Janssen's Evorel will be available mid 2020, Theramex's FemSeven will be available mid 2020 and now Mylan's Elleste? Is is possible that all these products have a common denominator? A new patent?
Coincidentally...
Fem7 in Germany was being manufactured by Mylan GMBH for Teva and subsequently for Theramex Ireland https://www.docmorris.de/fem7-50-g-transdermale-pflaster/07525728
Mylan's transdermal patch patent has recently expired https://patents.google.com/patent/US5948433A/en.
That's why Teva has decided to stop manufacturing FemSeven patches. When Theramex decided to reformulate them, it was too late, Mylan wasn't interested (patent expiration) and Lohmann LTS wasn't interested (patent expiration, see my post on the FemSeven discontinuation thread).
The glue issues may be genuine (although I'm puzzled that the estradiol only patches are still being marketed), but it's not the whole picture.
BeaR.
Thanks for that BeaR - I remember reading something, somewhere recently that said fem7 would be available early 2020. Just have to wait, I suppose...
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You're welcome KiltedCupid.
Latest update on FemSeven products:
https://www.theramex.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/FemSeven-Conti-and-FemSeven-Sequi-Transdermal-HRT-Adhesive-Patched-Stock-Update-1.pdf
BeaR.
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Provera on the shortage list https://www.sps.nhs.uk/category/shortages-discontinuations-and-expiries/shortages/
BeaR.
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At this point I don't think anyone should be unduly concerned about this bear. The link (from that particular pharmacy) actually says this:
"Pfizer, the sole supplier of Provera tablets, are experiencing manufacturing delays, and are out of stock of the 100mg tablets until week ending 8th November 2019 and there are insufficient amounts of other strengths to bridge the gap in supply. At present it seems possible to import supplies of unlicensed medroxyprogesterone acetate 100mg tablets."
So - firstly there is a generic MPA available and secondly this high dose is not used for HRT but as a treatment for other conditions - the dose for HRT is 2.5 mg or 5 mg.
Hurdity x
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I got estraderm patches online recently no problem. I bought the 100's as it's better value to chop them up to 25's.
Hi can you point me in the direction to get these please xx
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At this point I don't think anyone should be unduly concerned about this bear. The link (from that particular pharmacy) actually says this:
"Pfizer, the sole supplier of Provera tablets, are experiencing manufacturing delays, and are out of stock of the 100mg tablets until week ending 8th November 2019 and there are insufficient amounts of other strengths to bridge the gap in supply. At present it seems possible to import supplies of unlicensed medroxyprogesterone acetate 100mg tablets."
So - firstly there is a generic MPA available and secondly this high dose is not used for HRT but as a treatment for other conditions - the dose for HRT is 2.5 mg or 5 mg.
Hurdity x
Hi Hurdity,
This is just for information. Same manufacturer, same API (active pharmaceutical ingredient), shortages in Australia and Canada, get my drift?
BeaR.
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Update about Elleste products produced by Mylan. I hope I'm not duplicating stuff that's already been posted as I don't have time to read most of the posts! This information was sent to health professionals and publicised on another site and I have been given permission to reproduce:
"We have received an update on HRT products produced by MYLAN - Elleste Solo 1mg and 2mg, Elleste Duet 1mg and 2mg, Elleste Duet Conti 2mg- Earlier this year MYLAN informed Health Care Professionals that their third party manufacturing partner was experiencing an interruption in the production of the above products. At that time they anticipated a temporary interruption which would be resolved by mid 2019. To ensure the stable supply of Elleste oral tablets in the future MYLAN will be transferring the production of Elleste to a MYLAN owned and operated facility. This transfer is in progress and they anticipate production to resume by the second half of 2020. In the meantime any stock of Elleste oral tablets in the market is available to order and prescribe by your HCP. Once that has supply has been depleted they will not be replenished until the site transfer process has been completed. This does NOT affect the transdermal patches Elleste Solo MX 40mcg and 80mcg"
Hurdity x
When was this memo issued? It's not consistent with this info https://www.mims.co.uk/drug-shortages-live-tracker/article/1581516
BeaR.
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I was just looking at the Independent pharmacy and they are showing evorel sequi and evorel conti in stock, for now!
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I got estraderm patches online recently no problem. I bought the 100's as it's better value to chop them up to 25's.
Hi can you point me in the direction to get these please xx
I was given them by my local dispensary at my GP practice as the only oestrogen only patches available (to them) ie in stock at their distributor. I expect other brands are available to order?
Hurdity x
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When was this memo issued? It's not consistent with this info https://www.mims.co.uk/drug-shortages-live-tracker/article/1581516
BeaR.
I can't access your link but it came to my attention via a private online group on 16th September and was info sent to health professionals. I'm just reporting it verbatim for info (with permission).
Hurdity x
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If that refers to Mylan's latest info for HCP displayed at their MyWay HRT Hub, it's from August, according to my Gynae. Apparently their must have run out of stock in 3 weeks.
BeaR.
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I have no idea bear - just reporting on the info as it reaches me by whatever means because that is what women on here are wanting to know.
Hurdity x
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Hi Hurdity,
This is just for information. Same manufacturer, same API (active pharmaceutical ingredient), shortages in Australia and Canada, get my drift?
BeaR.
Course I know what you're getting at bear but no point setting hares running eh?
Hurdity x
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I've managed to get Evorel Conti from Oxford Online Pharmacy. Just letting you know in case they still have supplies.
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The independent pharmacy are also showing femseven 50, 75 and 100 available for anyone who need estrogen only patches. I think someone said you can send your NHS prescription to them
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Did I mention that Estraderm is plentiful and available to order from suppliers to my local dispensary (attached to practice as I'm rural)?
However as they are mahoosive have not ventured into trying them and at this morning's change reverted to the Estradot 50 + one cut up (to give 62.5) that expired May 2018. So far so good....
Hurdity x
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Pepperminty the only thing I've read is mid 2020 for evorel, but I think we are looking at next year now sadly so at least another 6 months x
Thanks Country Girl, I have enough to last me that long- Femosten 1/10, I just hope that it doesn't go on any longer .
PMX
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The independent pharmacy are also showing femseven 50, 75 and 100 available for anyone who need estrogen only patches. I think someone said you can send your NHS prescription to them
Yes you can. I did it for Evorel Conti.
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Well I spoke too soon about the Estraderm! I went to pick up the rest of my prescription from the practice dispensary only to be told they (their suppliers) had run out (since Thursday...)! Apparently Alliance who supply the dispensary - or who supply the suppliers to the dispensary - are rationing supplies :-\. She's going to carry on trying to get any patches to fill my prescription (hopefully not Femseven). So far have two boxes + my out of date ones....
Hurdity x
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Good luck Hurdity. Btw, what's wrong with Femseven? I don't know much about all the different products.
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Hi girls,
Updated (23 Sept) AAH out of stock notice board: Estradot patches 50 µg and Sandrena gel sachets 1 mg https://www.aah.co.uk/resource/blob/29878/b7e818a3732dd288ffe65ab7dd493202/stock-bulletin-data.pdf
BeaR.
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I got estraderm patches online recently no problem. I bought the 100's as it's better value to chop them up to 25's.
Hi can you point me in the direction to get these please xx
I would gladly but Emma, the administrator has sent me a message telling me that my last post on the supplier had the link removed as it's against forum rules. Sorry.
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Hiya, I'm 47 and peri and was getting along nicely with the Evorel Sequi patches ( evorel 50/evorel conti) for the last 4 months . These are now not available until at least middle of 2020 :'( I was at my GP yesterday and she has gave me an alternative of Estradiol 50micrograms patches and Utrogestan 100mg (micronised and orally) twice daily on days 14-28 . I really don't want to change as I've found the side effects of Evorel Sequi not bad at all ...I hate taking tablets at the best of times it heightens my anxiety in case of any side effects, whereas patches I can just take off if I don't feel okay :-\ . Has any other Ladies been given these or had any experience with Estradiol/Utrogestan. I don't want to end up back square one and think should I just come off HRT altogether and try to go through it on my own !!!
Thank you x
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I'm on Estraderm and was lucky to get some as had the prescription in for two months, because the other patches are out of stock it's now having a knock on effect with Estraderm which is so annoying.
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Hi Taylor J
I have tried the gel and utrogestan tablets a few years ago and didn't get on with that regime at all.
I'm using the evorel conti patches and got them from my pharmacist last week
Vicky xx
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Hi ,
update FYI
News
British Menopause Society further update on HRT supply shortages (23rd September 2019)
24 September 2019
The British Menopause Society has produced this further update on the current availability of HRT products in response to the ongoing HRT shortages. The objective of this is to provide guidance to BMS members and clinical practitioners who may be experiencing difficulties with HRT supplies.
There continues to be availability issues with many HRT products, either related to manufacturing shortages or supply issues. The BMS has been informed that these are temporary shortages which pharmaceutical companies and their suppliers are addressing. The BMS has been in discussion with the manufacturers as well as the RCOG, FSRH and the Medicine Supply Team at the Department of Health and Social Care to explore this ongoing issue and to provide up to date information on HRT product availability.
In the meantime, prescribers can continue to consider equivalent preparations that provide a similar dose to that which their patient is using. If an exact match is not possible, prescribers can seek guidance available on the practical prescribing chart on the BMS website and Menopause Matters website, to clarify equivalent doses.
Consideration could also be given to prescribing estrogen and progestogen separately to make the closest match or find a suitable alternative.
Different brands for the same medication may vary in appearance or excipients. However, they would provide equivalent amounts of hormones when used in similar doses.
BMS members can post prescribing queries on the BMS forum if any clarifications are required.
The information on stock availability and supplies below was obtained from the pharmaceutical companies producing these products.
Besins Healthcare (UK) HRT products
No shortage of supplies of their HRT products:
Oestrogel systemic oestradiol gel.
Utrogestan (micronised progesterone) 100 mg in continuous combined regimen and 200 mg in sequential regimens.
Orion HRT products
Sandrena 0.5 mg sachet Out of stock until late October / early November 2019.
Sandrena 1.0 mg sachet (x28 and x91 packs). Available.
Indivina 1mg oestradiol + 2.5mg medroxyprogesterone acetate Available.
Indivina 1mg oestradiol + 5mg medroxyprogesterone acetate Out of stock until December 2019.
Indivina 2mg oestradiol + 5mg medroxyprogesterone acetate Out of stock until December 2019.
Tridestra 2mg oestradiol + 20mg medroxyprogesterone acetate Available.
If difficulty obtaining supplies, the company has suggested contacting their customer care on 01635520300 to guide them to the wholesale suppliers.
Evorel patches (Janssen)
Janssen have provided the following update on their Evorel patch products:
Janssen has issued the following update regarding their Evorel patch supplies:
There is an interruption of supply for Evorel®, Evorel® Sequi and Evorel® Conti that will result in shortages to patients. The product range will stockout at the end of October 2019. The company anticipates that pharmacies will be out of stock until mid-2020.
For further questions or additional information, please contact: Janssen Medical Information Department: email: [email protected], telephone: 0800 731 8450 or 01494 567 444.
Estradot patches (Novartis pharmaceuticals):
Estradot oestradiol 25 / 37.5 / 50 / 75 / 100 micrograms Available. No supply shortages.
If difficulty obtaining supplies, the company has suggested contacting their customer care to guide them to the wholesale suppliers, on 08457 419 442; E-mail [email protected]. Frimley Business Park, Frimley, Camberley, Surrey, GU16 7SR.
Merck Sharp & Dohme Limited
Livial (2.5 mg Tibolone) (x84 packs) Available.
Livial (2.5 mg Tibolone) (x28 packs) Out of stock until October 2019.
Mylan HRT products
Elleste Soloâ„¢ 1mg oestradiol. Shortage of supply.
Elleste Soloâ„¢ 2mg oestradiol. Available.
Elleste Duetâ„¢ 1mg oestradiol + 1mg norethisterone acetate. Shortage of supply.
Elleste Duetâ„¢ 2mg oestradiol + 1mg norethisterone acetate. Available.
Elleste Duetâ„¢ Conti 2mg oestradiol + 1mg norethisterone. Shortage of supplies.
Femoston® 1mg oestradiol + 10mg dydrogesterone. Shortage of supply.
Femoston® 2mg oestradiol + 10mg dydrogesterone. Available.
Femoston® conti 1mg oestradiol + 5mg dydrogesterone. Available.
Femoston® conti low dose 0.5mg 0estradiol + 2.5mg dydrogesterone. Available.
Zumenon® 1mg oestradiol. Shortage of supplies.
Zumenon® 2mg oestradiol. Shortage of supplies.
Elleste Soloâ„¢ MX patches 40mcg transdermal oestradiol. Available.
Elleste Soloâ„¢ MX patches 80mcg transdermal oestradiol. Available.
Mylan have issued the following information to healthcare providers:
Earlier this year, Mylan was experiencing an interruption in the production of Ellesteâ„¢, which included; Elleste Soloâ„¢ (1mg & 2mg), Elleste Duetâ„¢ (1mg & 2mg) and Elleste Duetâ„¢ Conti (2mg).
At that time, Mylan anticipated a temporary interruption and for stock levels to resume during the middle of 2019. To minimise disruption to patients and to support pharmacies, societies and healthcare professionals (HCPs) across the country Mylan took several proactive steps, including:
sending two Ellesteâ„¢ stock constraint mailers to 50,000+ HCPs;
informing the British Menopause Society;
continuously communicating with the National Pharmacy Association; and
creating a MyWay Pharmacist leaflet for our salesforce to use when visiting pharmacists across the country.
In addition, Mylan created a new promotional page on its dedicated HCP website, called MyWay HRT Overview and Stock Availability. This page provides details of Mylan range of HRT products, stock availability and options to switch patients to alternative products where appropriate.
To ensure the stable supply of Ellesteâ„¢ Oral Tablets in the future, Mylan will be transferring the production of Ellesteâ„¢ to a Mylan owned and operated facility.
The site transfer is in progress and Myaln anticipate production to resume by second half of 2020. In the meantime, any stock of Ellesteâ„¢ Oral Tablets in the market, is available to order and prescribe. Once that supply has been depleted, the replenishment of Ellesteâ„¢ Oral Tablets will not be available until the site transfer process has been completed.
Mylan will continue to support pharmacies, societies and healthcare professionals by providing updates on materials and communications including updates to stock availability, timing for resolution and information about Mylan's other HRT products.
Please note that this does not affect the transdermal patches; Elleste Soloâ„¢ MX (40 and 80mcg).
Mylan has a dedicated website for healthcare professionals, which has LIVE information about current supply of their HRT. The overview of stock availability page can be accessed on: https://mywayhub.co.uk/en-gb/range
Mylan HRT stock can only be obtained through AAH, Alliance and Phoenix
If you have difficulty obtaining supplies please contact Mylan Customer Service on: [email protected]
Novo Nordisk HRT products
No shortage of supplies of any of their HRT products:
Kliovance 1mg oestradiol + 0.5mg norethisterone acetate.
Kliofem 2mg oestradiol + 1mg norethisterone acetate.
Novofem 1 mg oestradiol + 1 mg norethisterone acetate.
Trisequens 2mg/2mg/1mg oestradiol + 1mg norethisterone acetate.
Vagifem 10mcg topical vaginal oestrogen.
If difficulty obtaining supplies, the company suggested contacting their customer care on: [email protected]; or telephone 0845 600 5055, to guide them to their wholesale suppliers.
Bayer
Progynova 1mg oestradiol tablets. Available.
Progynova 2 mg oestradiol tablets. Available.
Progynova TS oestradiol 50 patches. Out of stock next week until end of October 2019.
Progynova TS oestradiol 100 patches. Available.
Mirena IUS. Available.
Aspen
Ovestin. Oestriol topical vaginal cream. Available.
Theramax
Femseven mono oestradiol 50 / 75 / 100. Available.
Femseven conti. oestradiol / levonorgestrel Out of stock until end of 2020.
Femseven sequi. oestradiol / levonorgestrel Out of stock until early 2021.
Estraderm MX patches
No updates available regarding current availability of Estraderm patches.
Estraderm MX 50 patches.
Estraderm MX 75 patches.
Estraderm MX 100 patches.
Pfizer
Premique low dose. Conjugated equine estrogen 0.3 mg + medroxyprogesterone acetate 1.5 mg. Available.
Duavive. Conjugated equine estrogen 0.45 mg + 20 mg bazedoxifene. Available.
Premarin conjugated equine oestrogen 0.625 mg and 1.25 mg. Available.
Estring oestradiol 7.5 micrograms/24 hours. Low stock until 11th October 2019.
Marlborough
Oestriol 0.01%. Topical vaginal cream. Available.
GPs and Pharmacists should be able to provide guidance on suitable alternatives.
Haitham Hamoda
Chairman, British Menopause Society
PMX
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Hi Taylor J
I have tried the gel and utrogestan tablets a few years ago and didn't get on with that regime at all.
I'm using the evorel conti patches and got them from my pharmacist last week
Vicky xx
Thanks Vicky, I might ask my local pharmacies to see if I can still get the Evorel Sequi patches otherwise try the Estradiol and Utro and see if they agree with me
Julie xx
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Just been to collect my prescription from my surgery, only to find the HRT patches left off. As I have a doctors appointment on Saturday and a couple of weeks supply left, I let it go. I went to the chemist near the surgery and mentioned they hadn't issued my prescription for HRT and she said she couldn't get any patches of any make anyway! I looked on the BMS site, which says there are no problems getting Estradot patches at the moment, so maybe some hope? The pharmacist suggested I see my doctor and get the gel. Never tried this before. This is getting stressful and time consuming. My nearest chemist is 3 miles away and as they never have everything, it requires two trips every month at least. After my saying at least I hadn't had problem getting my asthma meds, she said that over the last two years, one mediation after another has become unavailable. What is going on? The uncertainty of Brexit?
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Thanks for the update pepperminty and thanks also Dotty for posting the link on the other thread! This is very thorough. Very annoying about the patches especially Estradot - and it does seem like some whoilesalers or whoever the dispensaries get it from are holding things up somewhere along the line. Our supply chains are so very long and complex these days and what with purchase agreements or whatever they are between dispensaries or pharmacies and their suppliers - it is diffcult to intervene.
I for one will be writing to Novartis as they suggest! My prescription has already been changed to Estraderm and they can't now get these although it seems from the below there is no info....!
Hurdity x
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Good luck Hurdity. Btw, what's wrong with Femseven? I don't know much about all the different products.
Hiya shropshirelass - sorry only just seen this,
Nothing wrong with Femseven at all! It's just that my body is used to the twice weekly patches (for 12 + years!) so would prefer not to change to a 7 day one at this point. However if that was the only one available I would change to that rather than gel as my body is used to estradiol being delivered by patches. However in these difficult times I think we have to take what we can get!!!
Hurdity x
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Sorry if this has already been posted elsewhere - have not been on the forum for a week or more. Interested to find the following BMS statement on government intervention wrt HRT supply shortages:-
https://thebms.org.uk/2019/10/bms-response-to-the-governments-new-measures-to-tackle-hrt-shortages/
Hope everyone is OK & managing to get theirs.
Wx
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Hi Wrensong,
Unfortunately the measures should have been implemented BEFORE the shortages have escalated.
https://www.bbc.com/news/health-47742899
Let's hope it's not too late. I echo your wishes, hope everyone is managing to get their meds.
BeaR.
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Couldn't agree more BeaR. Thanks for posting this link. My understanding of the reasons behind the situation was incomplete & this article's an eye opener that makes for grim reading and a lingering heartsink feeling.
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Hi again Wrensong,
You're welcome. I like to read 'old news', hindsight is an important tool when it comes to filter the overwhelming amount of information we have to absorb these days.
BeaR.
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Thank you for posting the updates, after femseven was stopped I was not able to get Utro from Dr so had to go private which was very expensive. Then a new female Dr started & gave me the prescription the private Gynae was prescribing :D
Yesterday to needed to review as I am having night sweats again but told now due to new concerns over breast cancer risk she is not able to raise dose from 2 pumps of gel a day - I am 56 so have to go privately again. Will I be able to get oestrogel with shortages or would a oestrogen patch be easier to get from my own Dr on NHS after private Gynae gives a prescription? LB
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Hi Ladybird 2 - you do not need to go privately to obtain the dose of HRT you need. This is ridiculous,. They are just trying to save money or are ignorant of the valid criticisms (but the academic medical menopause societies) of the latest Lancet study. There is a huge amount of information and links on this website and forum if you want to look - or we can show you (re the Lancet study and BC risk). I would ask for referral if this doc will not increase your dose - this is absurd and if you feel up to it, needs challenging. Why should you have to pay other than a prescription charge?
As far as we know there are no shortages of gel (the BMS have publicised the shortages list and no-one has said they have any problems getting hold of it). Please try again with your GP or another in the practice or ask to be referred. Did your private gynae only prescribe 2 pumps or did s/he make prpovision to increase to 4 if your symptoms are not controlled?
Another alternative is to have an e-mail consultation with Dr Currie ( founder of MM) at a cost of only £30 with your question (look on home page of website) and if/when she recommends up to 4 pumps max (provided there is no contra-indication in your personal situation) then you can print off and take to your doc in lieu of expensive private consultation?
Hurdity x
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Thank you Hurdity,
I do feel like pushed from one Dr the another I have Osteoporosis as well so this is the main reason to take it. I have been given this month supply but used to get 6 months on Femseven. Its such a battle now 5 years on HRT we have no meno clinics near so I will battle on.
Thanks again, always great advice :)
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haven't been on here for ages.
There's been a total supply shutdown of both of my HRT prescriptions. Evorel 50 patches and Utrogestan 100. Been on them for 10+ years now. GP didn't inform me. I heard yesterday when I tried to get a repeat of the Utrogestan.
I can only see my consultant in January and my GP is out of his depth and uninterested in HRT. If I move practice to the other one around here, they are hostile to HRT. I have 2 weeks left of Utrogestan and 2 months of Evorel. Obviously I can't take Evorel unopposed.
The pharmacies say they are being kept in the dark and info changes daily. We are very vulnerable to lack of HRT as it's not something that was ever prescribed more often than needed to help patients deal with shortages.
No Evorel until at least summer 2020.
My GP knows nada about HRT but relies on the consultant at the meno clinic (the one that wrote the BMS article). If he's in the dark as well, what on earth to do? He's so busy I can only see him in January.
It's difficult not to be anxious.
Going cold turkey is terrifying. I have other serious health issues that will be affected if I suddenly stop HRT after so many stable years.
Ladybird, I also have osteoporosis and this is another reason why the evorel has been prescribed.
Someone is stockpiling and it isn't us....other meds of mine are also suddenly unavailable too. All the PPIs. They are on the Yellowhammer list.
I hope everyone can find a way that doesn't break the bank. This is gross irresponsibility to patients.
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haven't been on here for ages.
There's been a total supply shutdown of both of my HRT prescriptions. Evorel 50 patches and Utrogestan 100. Been on them for 10+ years now. GP didn't inform me. I heard yesterday when I tried to get a repeat of the Utrogestan.
I can only see my consultant in January and my GP is out of his depth and uninterested in HRT. If I move practice to the other one around here, they are hostile to HRT. I have 2 weeks left of Utrogestan and 2 months of Evorel. Obviously I can't take Evorel unopposed.
The pharmacies say they are being kept in the dark and info changes daily. We are very vulnerable to lack of HRT as it's not something that was ever prescribed more often than needed to help patients deal with shortages.
No Evorel until at least summer 2020.
My GP knows nada about HRT but relies on the consultant at the meno clinic (the one that wrote the BMS article). If he's in the dark as well, what on earth to do? He's so busy I can only see him in January.
It's difficult not to be anxious.
Going cold turkey is terrifying. I have other serious health issues that will be affected if I suddenly stop HRT after so many stable years.
Ladybird, I also have osteoporosis and this is another reason why the evorel has been prescribed.
Someone is stockpiling and it isn't us....other meds of mine are also suddenly unavailable too. All the PPIs. They are on the Yellowhammer list.
I hope everyone can find a way that doesn't break the bank. This is gross irresponsibility to patients.
If your GP will give you a prescription, you can still order from the Independent Pharmacy. I have just checked and they do have your Evorel 50 in stock. https://www.theindependentpharmacy.co.uk/menopause-hrt/evorel'default=evorel-patches-508-patches
You don't pay more than the NHS prescription charge as long as you can send them a prescription. I have ordered once before and got Evorel Conti from them.
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Hi Oldsheep, heart in mouth for you. Can you maybe ring your consultant's sec & explain the situation, asking whether he can at least email your GP stating that you must not be made to come off your HRT & organise for you to have a script you can send to the Independent Pharmacy as Katejo suggests. I have also used them when no local pharmacy would even take my script for Estradot a few weeks ago, & they were really helpful.
I may be in a similar position to you wrt future scripts - when I collected my Estradot from the pharmacy on Sat, was astonished to see all my HRT bar MPA has been removed from repeat order form with no explanation. So that's Vagifem, Estriol & Estradot I am seemingly no longer able to order. Waiting to speak to GP to find out whether an error or deliberate. I so hope the former!
Wx
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Could it be the gap in ordering is longer than usual, at my surgery if you haven't ordered repeat in 3 months it is automatically removed and you have to see your Dr again
It was explained to me that it is the computer that removes it not the Dr
Hope this helps, it could be a mistake though,as far as i know vagifem is still available, but livial of which there was plenty has now been added to the list i saw
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No Jaycee, I have to order a box of Vagifem roughly every month as directed to use 5 nights a week, had ordered Estriol approx a month ago & Estradot dosage was Consultant raised only last week, which had involved my requesting the new strength from the surgery on Thurs. Didn't get to speak to the GP who issued the script - was arranged via Cons email to surgery together with written request from me. That seems to have been when the 3 HRT items were removed from repeat. Hoping it was a locum GP who's unfamiliar with the system & deleted accidentally. But have a heartsink feeling about it, especially as I have quite a few items on repeat & the Vagifem was spaced apart from the other 2 on the order form, with other repeat order meds in between, so at least 2 of the missing 3 must have been removed individually.
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It seems very strange doesn't it? i hope it was just a mistake
Can you speak to your Dr on the phone, we can if we can't get an appointment and it is a worrying thing,or instead of an appointment then prescription are electronically sent to the chemist
I have often done,i just ring and he faxes one through when i get a sinus infection. as i get them often
Sorry if you have mentioned this and i have missed i
At least you might find out what has happened
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Thanks Jaycee - I hope so too. Yes - rang Monday hoping to speak to GP but away until tomorrow, so intend to ring again then. Yes, they do teleconsultations for simple things & I rarely actually go in in person as it seems a waste of their time for straightforward probs that don't involve an exam, but there's correspondence I need to show her & a number of issues have accumulated, so probably about time I went in! They do send scripts electronically, but sometimes I need to stop that happening & collect one as the pharmacy is a half hour drive away & I can only usually get there once a week. Seems to be difficult to buck the system & prevent a script going through! That's when probs tend to arise.
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Yikes this is all sounding very scary indeed!
oldsheep Utrogestan :o. That was one that there was recently no shortage of along with all Besins products. If this starts to become short in supply we're doomed!!
I've just ordered some yesterday from my repeat prescription, as well as Vagifem so will see if it's there on Monday.
As already said you should be able to get these from other suppliers eg I always go to my dispensary attached to my practice as I'm rural so have accepted what they say - but perhaps I might have been able to get Estradot if I'd gone elsewhere?
Hurdity x
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Hurdity, I don't think you would have been able to get Estradot elsewhere. I am in Surrey and have been unable to get it from either Boots or Lloyds pharmacies (the only two local ones), nor from any online pharmacies, including Superdrug. I haven't been offered your Estraderm either, they all say no oestrogen patches are available. When my stash runs out (soon!) I'll be back on Oestrogel. Even Sandrena isn't available here.
JP x
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Thanks joaniepat - but NightNurse has just got some! See other thread. Maybe last remnants of a pharmacy's stock! This is just dire. Did you not like oestrogel? I still have a month's worth of Sandrena left from a while ago but that brought back flushes at the 1 mg dose and it would soon go if i used more....! We're all scrabbling around prepared to try anything!
Hurdity x
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Old sheep -
There's been a total supply shutdown of both of my HRT prescriptions. Evorel 50 patches and Utrogestan 100. Been on them for 10+ years now. GP didn't inform me. I heard yesterday when I tried to get a repeat of the Utrogestan.
Wondering whether I misunderstood this. Can I ask did you mean GP surgery has suddenly declined to prescribe your HRT (as I assumed) or that there's no supply available at your local pharmacies?
Hurdity, when I got back from hols a few days after the BMS availability listing had been published, found pharmacy had substituted Evorel for Estradot. Label on Evorel said no Estradot available. Cons has since raised my dose & this time Estradot were supplied as requested. As the BMS listing of 24 Sept hasn't been updated & the manufacturer was quoted as saying entire Estradot range was available, I assumed that meant no Estradot supply probs for the foreseeable. So was surprised to be given Evorel instead, which was supposedly in short supply. Presumably this is the wholesaler exporting issue effect?
If you're having probs getting what you need & have not yet used the Independent Pharmacy, I'd say they'd be worth a try.
Wx
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Old sheep - There's been a total supply shutdown of both of my HRT prescriptions. Evorel 50 patches and Utrogestan 100. Been on them for 10+ years now. GP didn't inform me. I heard yesterday when I tried to get a repeat of the Utrogestan.
Wondering whether I misunderstood this. Can I ask did you mean GP surgery has suddenly declined to prescribe your HRT (as I assumed) or that there's no supply available at your local pharmacies?
Hurdity, when I got back from hols end Sept a few days after the BMS availability listing had been published, found pharmacy had substituted Evorel 25mcg for Estradot. Label on Evorel said no Estradot available. Cons has since raised my dose to 37.5 & this time Estradot were supplied - last Sat. As the BMS listing of 24 Sept hasn't been updated & the manufacturer was quoted as saying entire Estradot range was available, I assumed that meant no Estradot supply probs for the foreseeable. So was nonplussed that I was given Evorel instead, which was supposedly in short supply.
If you're having probs getting what you need & have not yet used the Independent Pharmacy, I'd say they'd be worth a try.
Wx
My GP practice stopped issuing prescriptions because so many patients had failed to get any HRT from the pharmacies. I told them about the Independent Pharmacy and persuaded them to let me have a prescription. I want to order more now but I suspect that they will say that I am not due another repeat yet. I may have to pay the price displayed on the site.
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I'm in Bicester and tried to get Estradot 75 out of stock and the 50
So I'm stuck with Estrogel although not obsorbing ? Everol patch didn't stick and elleste solo had bad side effects so the only other is Estraderm but they are huge and don't really want to mess about with other hrt regime , this is Terrible for us all so I'm unsure what I'm going to do I'm actually contemplated going on contraceptive pill ! And sacking hrt off I'm only 40 and struggling to get a balance on hrt
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Thanks joaniepat - but NightNurse has just got some! See other thread. Maybe last remnants of a pharmacy's stock! This is just dire. Did you not like oestrogel? I still have a month's worth of Sandrena left from a while ago but that brought back flushes at the 1 mg dose and it would soon go if i used more....! We're all scrabbling around prepared to try anything!
Hurdity x
I've just managed to find an online pharmacy (which also has a high street presence) which has accepted my NHS prescription for 6 boxes of Estradot 100 patches so I presume they have them in stock. I am not holding my breath and will believe it when I see it! Fingers crossed. I didn't absorb Oestrogel well so hope I don't have to go back to it.
JP x
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Thanks joaniepat - but NightNurse has just got some! See other thread. Maybe last remnants of a pharmacy's stock! This is just dire. Did you not like oestrogel? I still have a month's worth of Sandrena left from a while ago but that brought back flushes at the 1 mg dose and it would soon go if i used more....! We're all scrabbling around prepared to try anything!
Hurdity x
I've just managed to find an online pharmacy (which also has a high street presence) which has accepted my NHS prescription for 6 boxes of Estradot 100 patches so I presume they have them in stock. I am not holding my breath and will believe it when I see it! Fingers crossed. I didn't absorb Oestrogel well so hope I don't have to go back to it.
JP x
Which pharmacy is that please?
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Katejo
My GP practice stopped issuing prescriptions because so many patients had failed to get any HRT from the pharmacies. I told them about the Independent Pharmacy and persuaded them to let me have a prescription. I want to order more now but I suspect that they will say that I am not due another repeat yet. I may have to pay the price displayed on the site.
Sorry to hear that, but well done for persuading your surgery to let you have a script. I've been afraid the recent meta-analysis publication combined with the HRT shortages may be causing reluctance to prescribe & hope that's not what's behind my HRT items having apparently been deleted from repeat order. Both issues must have increased the load on already stretched GP surgeries & pharmacies alike. I hate to make a fuss, but these are meds we all need to be able to function.
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Hi Sammiejane, I've noticed some of your posts here & there & get the impression you are really struggling. I'm so sorry - you are far too young to be without effective hormone replacement. I know in an ideal world none of us would have to go private & that sadly many can't afford the luxury of that approach, but as you've said you're near Bicester, if you haven't yet been to Newson Health in fairly nearby Stratford-on-Avon & can afford it, I think they may be a good choice to help you onto the right road. An initial private consultation in any specialty is usually far longer than the NHS can afford to provide (to the frustration of many wonderful NHS doctors), so for those of us with complex histories or who for whatever reason need time for comprehensive discussion, this can be both Godsend & huge relief. Their very helpful website lists costs etc & I rang & explained my situation beforehand, asking to be assigned to the most appropriate doctor & that worked out well for me. This will not solve the supply shortages we're all facing, but you should get sensible, sympathetic, specialist advice there.
Sorry for taking this thread off topic, ladies - just concerned for Sammiejane.
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Thanks for posting. I can't get Femoston 1/10 anywhere and now I realise from reading on here that getting an alternative isn't going to be easy. I've made an appointment with the doctor in the hope he can get his book out and find me something similar. Just when I thought I'd found my life saver. God help us - the pharmacists said it's not just HRT being affected :-(
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My whole journey with HRT has been a joke! This is just the icing on the cake this malarkey. Xx
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I'm trying and failing to get Estradot 75. No pharmacy in Southampton has it and none can get it. The online pharmacies don't have it either and I'm worried as I have a Jaydess IUS giving me progesterone and I don't really want the effects of too much of that without the balancing estrogen.
I've asked my GP to see if I can have a gel. Has anyone done this?
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Unbelievable isn't it. Do you think there would have been more of an outcry in the press if supplies of Viagra had been affected ?? :D :D :D :D :D :D
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Haha probably 😬
I know I keep saying it and people are probs sick of hearing it but 20 yrs I've been menopausal and STILL not settled on a hrt.
Xx
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Sorry didn't answer sooner my Gynae is off sick until next Spring & so need to get another with no other females left seems ridiculous getting another private consultant appointment to ask for extra pumps of gel which might need another referral from Dr which is just like Oldsheeps explanation for a very hostile reaction. Good luck with your precious supplies it seems to get worse everyday :o
LB xx
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It sure is, I've noticed in my local shops I can't get senna now, may be just here but things do seem to be disappearing xx
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Thanks for posting. I can't get Femoston 1/10 anywhere and now I realise from reading on here that getting an alternative isn't going to be easy. I've made an appointment with the doctor in the hope he can get his book out and find me something similar. Just when I thought I'd found my life saver. God help us - the pharmacists said it's not just HRT being affected :-(
Hi Amanda61,
Have you tried asking an independent chemist to see if they can get it, or calling the company - I think it is Mylan- it will be on this thread as a link- they may be able to advise you. Can you try 2/10 Femosten? I don't think this is (the stronger one) is in short supply . You could always cut the estrogen part of the pack of 2/10 in half with a tablet cutter, but obviously not on the combined part of the pack, because you would half the progesterone too. This is just an idea- which you could run by your GP? I hope you find a solution. I use a tablet cutter and add Zumenon ( the estrogen part as a top up for my femosten 1/10)
PMX
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Hi Ladies
I'm having a nightmare getting new HRT patches after the Evorl Sequi no longer available. My Dr has prescribed Estradiol 50 (Fem Seven) . Now she has said 1 patch to be applied twice weekly but reading the advice on papers inside the box it says 1 patch for 7 days then apply a new one ????? It's such a nightmare getting back in for an appointment too . Do any ladies use the Fem Seven ? Thank you xx
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Hi Amanda61
I've sent you a PM x
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I cannot get evrol sequi either, what alternatives have ladies on patches been given off there doctor! Clio
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Estraderm MX 50 is out of stock now too :/
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It might just be in some areas as apparently stock varies from area to area quite considerably. I read an interesting article about drug shortages written in clear language by a pharmacist - talking about the supply chain and the stock held in 30 warehouses across the country ( not sure if that's whole of UK or just Engalnd - I presume the former).
https://www.echo.co.uk/blog/drug-shortages-in-the-uk-the-facts
Estraderm was the only one my local dispensary could get so I'm interested to know what I will be supplied with next or whether they still have this one when I go in to collect what is still owing....
clio - if you can't get Evorel sequi - can you get Evorel 50 and Evorel conti ( because that is what Eovrel sequi is)? If not it would have to be oestrogen patches and norethisterone tablets prescribed off licence at the same dose of HRT pills, or something completely different like gel and Provera or Utrogestan.
Hurdity x
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Just had a quick look and The independent pharmacy is still showing it has stock of evorel sequi and evorel conti.
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https://www.treated.com/menopause
Dunno if I can put link here - but they still have Evorel Conti and Sequi, even FemSeven 50
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Having been unable to get my repeat prescription of Estradot 50mcg patches, I've managed to get them in Tenerife, no problem. Fortunately, I was coming out here for a week anyway. Really hope the problem gets resolved soon so that everyone can get their supplies in the UK.
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I've just been in Sainsbury's and they had everol 75 and everol conti , my sequi is 50, how would the 75 effect me and is the conti the right one to go with the 75! Sorry does that make sense. Clio
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Clio, you could try cutting 1/3 off the evorel 75 oestradiol patches to make them roughly 50mcg & use for the oestrogen-only part of your sequi cycle & use the conti patches (50mcg oestradiol with 170 mcg Norethisterone, same as in your Evorel Sequi packs, I think) for the combi days.
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I take 100 estraderm but in 2 x 50 patches due to the size, I may try and cut one in half so wear 75 as will last longer, I have three boxes and I'm dreading them running out, this should be fine right.? Xx
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I take 100 estraderm but in 2 x 50 patches due to the size, I may try and cut one in half so wear 75 as will last longer, I have three boxes and I'm dreading them running out, this should be fine right.? Xx
Hi Butterfly22,
As long as they are Estraderm MX (matrix type) it will be fine.
BeaR.
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Hi Ladies,
does anyone know of any further updates as o when they think the shortage may stop? Is this likely for another 6 months?
PMX
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Hi pepperminty,
There are many drugs listed, about 100, 1-2 added, 1-2 back in stock, daily. Regarding HRT, the situation has remained the same for Evorel (2020) and FemSeven (2020-2021), Elleste range is back in stock, except for Duet Conti, Femoston range is back in stock, except for 1/10, according to Mylan website.
Remaining stocks of Estradot, Estraderm and Progynova patches vary depending on local availability. I don't think they have any manufacturing issues, but I can't say Brexit is affecting their acquisition by the NHS and parallel traders.
BeaR.
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Hi pepperminty
We haven't had any further updates since the comprehensive statement listing individual HRT products from the BMS 23rd September which has been posted on this thread and here it is again: https://thebms.org.uk/2019/09/british-menopause-society-further-update-on-hrt-supply-shortages-23rd-september-2019/
The situation of course varies locally too due to wholesalers etc - which was clarified in the link I posted previously I think, from the pharmacists. Also the situation on the ground can be different from the drugs manufacturers due to products being somewhere in the supply chain - but might be out of stock in your particular product from your particular supply chain.
If there is one that you are interested in - refer to the BMS list or write to the manufacturers - although they are being inundated so are sending standard replies and even so the situation locally does not necessarily match due to increased demand somewhere in the supply chain.
None of us can give any further info on this - I think BMS and others like Louise Newson will update info to us as soon as they have it! Also who knows what effect Brexit might have on things if (when? :'( ) it happens - we still don't know do we?!
It's all a right pain isn't it?!
Hurdity x
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I take 100 estraderm but in 2 x 50 patches due to the size, I may try and cut one in half so wear 75 as will last longer, I have three boxes and I'm dreading them running out, this should be fine right.? Xx
Hi Butterfly22,
As long as they are Estraderm MX (matrix type) it will be fine.
BeaR.
Thank you xx
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Thanks Hurdity,
yes a great pain! My Femosten 1/10 is on the short supply list, but the 2/10 isn't so I could split the tablets on the estrogen phase only if the worst comes to the worst if I have to up the dose. I can't see changing at this point as whatever you choose could be in short supply. ::)
PMX
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Hi girls,
Latest update (7 Oct) on AAH out of stock drugs bulletin https://www.aah.co.uk/resource/blob/29878/73b17e664e7dee3cc494aa6672001e0f/stock-bulletin-data.pdf
Mylan's products are listed as 'Supplier Allocation' meaning:
'A product on allocation is one that is distributed in a manner that limits distribution of scarce supplies until a shortage is resolved. Allocation plans may include strategies to control the quantity and frequency of product releases, placing limitations on quantities sold or limiting release to emergency-only use to conserve product for patients with life-threatening conditions for which there is no alternative therapy.' ASHP - US.
The BMS link has not been updated since 23rd Sep.
BeaR.
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Hi girls,
Latest update (7 Oct) on AAH out of stock drugs bulletin https://www.aah.co.uk/resource/blob/29878/73b17e664e7dee3cc494aa6672001e0f/stock-bulletin-data.pdf
Mylan's products are listed as 'Supplier Allocation' meaning:
'A product on allocation is one that is distributed in a manner that limits distribution of scarce supplies until a shortage is resolved. Allocation plans may include strategies to control the quantity and frequency of product releases, placing limitations on quantities sold or limiting release to emergency-only use to conserve product for patients with life-threatening conditions for which there is no alternative therapy.' ASHP - US.
The BMS link has not been updated since 23rd Sep.
BeaR.
OMG BeaR,
What qualifies as a life threatening condition? If I couldn't get my type of HRT from them I would be in a terrible state- as would many I am sure- not able to work etc- Just chopping and changing to find an alternative isn't great . Why place limitations on quantities sold - why not just produce more? Or am I missing something? If this effected men I am sure it would be resolved pretty quick .
PMX
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A helpful link, thank you BeaR.
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Hi girls,
Pepperminty, they are having manufacturing issues, that's why they can't just increase production. What manufacturing issues is still being debated. I have recently looked at the online version of Elleste tablets patient information leaflets and came across this (scroll to the end of the document).
https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.9510.pdf
Although it's stated that Piramal UK (a subsidiary from an Indian pharma) is the manufacturer, at the bottom of the doc you can see that the actual manufacturer is Meda, Germany, which is a Mylan owned manufacturing plant (Meda has been acquired by Mylan in 2016). So I suppose that something went wrong at Piramal and Mylan has decided to shift production to Meda (again, because Elleste was originally a Meda product). The pharma world is extremely complex, so any disruption in supply chains is a big problem. They will eventually solve it, it's in their best interest to sell their products.
You're welcome, Wrensong!
BeaR.
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I've been looking on The Independent Pharmacy website and get my Evorel Sequi patches , 3 months for £81.00 or Oxford Online Pharmacy for £64.49 ...a little pricey but could be worth it instead of stressing about trying out new ones, I was feeling a bit more like myself after being on the patches since end of May . They did seem to agree with me . I'm finding I feel more stressed trailing from chemist to chemist in my local area where I'm only getting 3 weeks supply at a time , back and forward to GP for another option :-\
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I've been looking on The Independent Pharmacy website and get my Evorel Sequi patches , 3 months for £81.00 or Oxford Online Pharmacy for £64.49 ...a little pricey but could be worth it instead of stressing about trying out new ones, I was feeling a bit more like myself after being on the patches since end of May . They did seem to agree with me . I'm finding I feel more stressed trailing from chemist to chemist in my local area where I'm only getting 3 weeks supply at a time , back and forward to GP for another option :-\
If your GP supplies an NHS prescription, you don't have to pay these prices. You pay exactly the same as you would at the High St pharmacy. It depends how far in advance the GP is willing to supply a prescription. You post the prescription to the online pharmacy. I have done it once to the Independent Pharmacy.
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Pepperminty - the information given on bear's link about Femoston at least is no different from what Mylan themselves have said on the last BMS update except using a new term "supplier allocation". On the BMS info it says this in lay terms ie "shortage of supplies" - but the company has given no additional information. I assume all concerned are just rationing it rather than supplying their limited stocks to just one warehouse or pharmacy ( further down the line).
From our point of view – the most important and relevant information – is that coming from the manufacturers themselves as to what the situation is in terms of delays, production etc.
We know that the last BMS information was 23rd September, but was from their contact with manufacturers – so this is as up to date as we have. I would have thought the companies would highlight where projected shortages are likely to occur? Regarding Mylan's products (mentioned by bear), the BMS quoted detailed information from this company (and others where available) about what they were doing re the shortages in terms of manufacturing – so I'll reproduce it here:
“Earlier this year, Mylan was experiencing an interruption in the production of Elleste™, which included; Elleste Solo™ (1mg & 2mg), Elleste Duet™ (1mg & 2mg) and Elleste Duet™ Conti (2mg).
At that time, Mylan anticipated a temporary interruption and for stock levels to resume during the middle of 2019. To minimise disruption to patients and to support pharmacies, societies and healthcare professionals (HCPs) across the country Mylan took several proactive steps, including:
• sending two Elleste™ stock constraint mailers to 50,000+ HCPs;
• informing the British Menopause Society;
• continuously communicating with the National Pharmacy Association; and
• creating a MyWay Pharmacist leaflet for our salesforce to use when visiting pharmacists across the country.
In addition, Mylan created a new promotional page on its dedicated HCP website, called MyWay HRT Overview and Stock Availability. This page provides details of Mylan range of HRT products, stock availability and options to switch patients to alternative products where appropriate.
To ensure the stable supply of Ellesteâ„¢ Oral Tablets in the future, Mylan will be transferring the production of Ellesteâ„¢ to a Mylan owned and operated facility.
The site transfer is in progress and Myaln anticipate production to resume by second half of 2020. In the meantime, any stock of Ellesteâ„¢ Oral Tablets in the market, is available to order and prescribe. Once that supply has been depleted, the replenishment of Ellesteâ„¢ Oral Tablets will not be available until the site transfer process has been completed.
Mylan will continue to support pharmacies, societies and healthcare professionals by providing updates on materials and communications including updates to stock availability, timing for resolution and information about Mylan's other HRT products.
Please note that this does not affect the transdermal patches; Elleste Soloâ„¢ MX (40 and 80mcg).
Mylan has a dedicated website for healthcare professionals, which has LIVE information about current supply of their HRT. The overview of stock availability page can be accessed on: https://mywayhub.co.uk/en-gb/range
Mylan HRT stock can only be obtained through AAH, Alliance and Phoenix
If you have difficulty obtaining supplies please contact Mylan Customer Service on:
[email protected]â€
So - we know what's happening with Elleste at least.
As you can see from the above, the company is also giving live updates for their products (Elleste solo, Elleste Duet and Femoston) on a dedicated website (link above). You can see at a glance which products are in stock. They have also provided detailed information about the production of their products and the timescale and this is what was communicated to the BMS (as above). Therefore the most up-to-date info re Mylan at least can be obtained directly from them without waiting for BMS.
Some of the other comapnies do not appear to be clear about their products - for example Novartis - to whom several have written but with unsatisfactory responses. I posted on another thread ( I think!) about what they said - I wrote back but did not hear again....they are all probably inundated.
Re bear's link to Aah stock. It looks like they are one of our wholesalers referred to in the pharmacy blog I linked to in previous post (and which Mylan refer to...)– extract below:
“Between the two main wholesalers in the UK, there are nearly 30 warehouses serving the whole country. When patients are informed of a shortage by their pharmacist, it's because there may be stock of the item somewhere in the supply system but not in the depot local to the pharmacy placing the order, which means it can't be ordered.â€
Like I said in a previous post – it is clear that due to the complexity of the supply chain even if one organisation is out of stock – it may be in stock still somewhere in the supply chain until – if there is a manufacturing delay – it runs out. This is why there are such inconsistencies across the country Grrr!
Happy days :) ::)
Hurdity x
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I've been looking on The Independent Pharmacy website and get my Evorel Sequi patches , 3 months for £81.00 or Oxford Online Pharmacy for £64.49 ...a little pricey but could be worth it instead of stressing about trying out new ones, I was feeling a bit more like myself after being on the patches since end of May . They did seem to agree with me . I'm finding I feel more stressed trailing from chemist to chemist in my local area where I'm only getting 3 weeks supply at a time , back and forward to GP for another option :-\
If your GP supplies an NHS prescription, you don't have to pay these prices. You pay exactly the same as you would at the High St pharmacy. It depends how far in advance the GP is willing to supply a prescription. You post the prescription to the online pharmacy. I have done it once to the Independent Pharmacy.
Oh really Katejo, that's great , I'm so relieved :) I'm willing pay anything just for peace of mind , I will try this .
Thank you xx
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Hi
Katejo mentioned that if using an NHS prescription for online pharmacies you don't have to pay the listed (extortionate) price. Can someone tell me how this works as even though I ticked the box saying I had prescription, the price remained the same at checkout. Do you get refunded when they receive the prescription in the post or is this a blip?
Thanx in adv
H
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Following the last reply, as I saw my doc today and have a prescription for 6 months supply of Everol Sequi, but have rung all the local pharmacies (was on the phone for over an hour) and they can't get them. Ive seen them on Oxford, and on Independent and wondered how it works.
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Hi
Katejo mentioned that if using an NHS prescription for online pharmacies you don't have to pay the listed (extortionate) price. Can someone tell me how this works as even though I ticked the box saying I had prescription, the price remained the same at checkout. Do you get refunded when they receive the prescription in the post or is this a blip?
Thanx in adv
H
Hi Fusseh,
I think you have to tick the NHS prescription box, not the private prescription box to have the discount.
BeaR.
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Hi girls,
This link is just to remind you that drug shortages are a global issue and at least one Giant Pharma is taking measures to avoid them in the near future.
https://www.fiercepharma.com/pharma/bring-machines-merck-kgaa-hopes-pilot-platform-will-stanch-chronic-drug-shortages
BeaR.
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Hi Ladies :-* I am so pleased I got my new patches today, picked up my prescription (2 weeks early) decided to try all local pharmacies, before making phone calls to out of town one's, first pharmacy had 8 patches, so decided to try next one just 10mins away, was gob smacked when I got all 24, both mentioned hit & miss with deliveries on lots of meds!!
I have been stretching patches out to 2 weeks, just to save some rather than run out completely, feeling extra hot during night from 10th to 14th day...but just coping best I can..
Someone very kindly gave me their unwanted patches, but they were Estro only, so this time on 10th day I cut one in half and stuck it next to my full conti patch and it really helped not so hot now during night, not sure its the right thing to do, any views you may have would love to hear them, just want this shortage to be over soon for all of us.. :'( x
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Hi all
This is the reply I've just received from Janssen regarding Evorel patches (i enquired specifically about Evorel Conti).
"Thank you for your email.
We are keeping our corporate website updated with the most recent information on the availability of Evorel products, which can be accessed here. Evorel Conti 8-patch packs are still available, although we are anticipating a complete interruption to supply of Evorel Conti as of November 2019. This is a complex situation with multiple factors impacting our ability to restock the market, and we are working on a return to full supply by mid-2020.
As such, we encourage patients currently prescribed Evorel Conti to discuss alternative HRT options with their healthcare professional. If pharmacies are experiencing any issues with orders while products are still available, they can contact our Customer Services team directly.
We understand the urgency of the situation and will continue to work closely with UK health authorities, healthcare professionals and the British Menopause Society to provide further information and advice as the situation continues to evolve. We are acutely aware of how difficult this situation is for those who rely on our products, and we wish to apologise to all those impacted by the current Evorel shortages.
Kind regards,
Medical Information
Janssen-Cilag Ltd
50-100 Holmers Farm Way
High Wycombe
Bucks
HP12 4EG"
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Hi Jellyb,
Janssen has acknowledged (to healthcare professionals) that they are having 'bulk supply issues'. Bulk supply is another term for API - active pharmaceutical ingredient.
https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/dhpc/1589/Document
Bear.
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Thanks for writing to the manufacturer Jellyb and for posting the response. Looks like all the pharmas who make HRT are communicating with BMS - and I think they summarised this info also in their reply to BMS on their last update. Therefore looks like the last supplies of Evorel patches will be entering the supply chain over the next couple of weeks. I imagine the situation regarding HRT shortages (here at least) is changing very rapidly as customers switch product.
bear the Janssen information is freely available to all. I thought I'd posted it before - I think it was put up on another site, but I saw that it was the same as the BMS info regarding availability and resumption of supply.
Hope everyone is still managing to get some sort of suitable HRT!! I can't believe I am saying that (as opposed to finessing which product..)
Hurdity x
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Hi Hurdity,
Janssen doesn't mention ‘bulk supply' issues in their press release https://www.janssen.com/uk/hormone-replacement-therapy-hrt-shortages-uk
‘We continue to experience an unprecedented increase in demand for the Evorel range of products, due in part to the lack of availability of alternative hormone replacement therapies (HRT) not produced by Janssen.'
The BMS website mentions ‘interruption of supply' but doesn't give a cause https://thebms.org.uk/2019/09/british-menopause-society-further-update-on-hrt-supply-shortages-23rd-september-2019/
The BMS link hasn't been updated since 24th Sep, Estradot patches are not available any more.
‘There is an interruption of supply for Evorel®, Evorel® Sequi and Evorel® Conti that will result in shortages to patients. The product range will stockout at the end of October 2019. The company anticipates that pharmacies will be out of stock until mid-2020.'
The letter to HCP adds new information: ‘Product availability has been impacted by increased demand in some countries including the UK, combined with issues in bulk supply, resulting in an accelerated depletion of current stock.'
https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/dhpc/1589/Document
You could check the links before you post that I'm giving old information. And by the way, my username is BeaR. ;)
BeaR.
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Thank you for the really helpful info BeaR.
I have a few weeks left of my patches, and that's it for me. I've tried so many over the years and had settled happily (kind of) on Evoril Conti. Nothing else suits so I'm being forced to stop. Can't think it's going to be that pleasant but there are no other options left for me.
😢
Hi McKay Girl,
You're welcome. Oh dear, I'm sorry to hear that, maybe you could ask someone to buy it overseas? They are marketed under other trade marks, Systen,if I'm not mistaken. I really hope you can find an alternative that suits you. My friend has bought FemSeven Conti equivalent, Feminova Plus, in Belgium.
BeaR.
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Well Christmas has come early for me, I asked the doctor if he could give me a six month prescription due to the problems I've had in the past and just picked my patches up yesterday (estrederm) I left the prescription there for a few weeks but so pleased I have a few months stability as I need it. Xxx good luck to all xxx
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Butterfly22 – well done – I know you've had problems with HRT over the years so I hope this gives you some stability.
You could check the links before you post that I'm giving old information. )
BeaR.
Woah bear hold your horses! You will see from my post I was specifically referring to “availability and resumption of supply†which as far as I know has not changed recently re Janssen and Evorel. While of course it is illuminating to read the causes of manufacturing delays, for most of us who use and depend on HRT the most important issue is whether our favoured product is still being made, when supplies will run out from the manufacturer and when they anticipate it will be available again (in UK of course).
We're all running around like headless chickens from pharm to pharm (!) chasing our patches and tablets!
Hurdity x
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Butterfly22 – well done – I know you've had problems with HRT over the years so I hope this gives you some stability.
You could check the links before you post that I'm giving old information. )
BeaR.
Woah bear hold your horses! You will see from my post I was specifically referring to “availability and resumption of supply†which as far as I know has not changed recently re Janssen and Evorel. While of course it is illuminating to read the causes of manufacturing delays, for most of us who use and depend on HRT the most important issue is whether our favoured product is still being made, when supplies will run out from the manufacturer and when they anticipate it will be available again (in UK of course).
We're all running around like headless chickens from pharm to pharm (!) chasing our patches and tablets!
Hurdity x
Hi hurdity,
Do you speak in the name of ‘most of us who use and depend on HRT', but I presume this is a public forum for anyone to read and I also presume you don't know every member or every member's interests?
I don't know why you keep replying to my posts implying that only the ‘official' information regarding HRT shortages is the ‘right' one, whatever that is. I'm posting info that is available on the internet for anyone to see. I think some members might find it useful. It's not misleading info, I always make sure I post links to the original sources.
For someone who thinks one is 'dependent on HRT', I thought you would be interested to know the real reasons for the shortages. It's bound to happen again, this is not Brexit related (although it's a complicating factor) and if users could be proactive, instead of just moaning about their own situation, maybe all women (present and future, including their own daughters) could benefit from more transparency in the pharmaceutical business.
I hope you don't mind if I call you hurdity as you don't bother calling me BeaR. ;)
BeaR
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Well Christmas has come early for me, I asked the doctor if he could give me a six month prescription due to the problems I've had in the past and just picked my patches up yesterday (estrederm) I left the prescription there for a few weeks but so pleased I have a few months stability as I need it. Xxx good luck to all xxx
Hi Butterfly22,
Merry Christmas! :xmas: Well done!
BeaR.
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Ah thank you 😚xxx
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Ah thank you 😚xxx
You're welcome, dear. :-*
BeaR.
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Butterfly22 – well done – I know you've had problems with HRT over the years so I hope this gives you some stability.
You could check the links before you post that I'm giving old information. )
BeaR.
Woah bear hold your horses! You will see from my post I was specifically referring to “availability and resumption of supply†which as far as I know has not changed recently re Janssen and Evorel. While of course it is illuminating to read the causes of manufacturing delays, for most of us who use and depend on HRT the most important issue is whether our favoured product is still being made, when supplies will run out from the manufacturer and when they anticipate it will be available again (in UK of course).
We're all running around like headless chickens from pharm to pharm (!) chasing our patches and tablets!
Hurdity x
Who is this bear you speak of Hurdity?
Is it the BeaR who has been posting links regarding HRT availability? If so it might be useful to spell the posters name correctly. I find accuracy helps in such matters :)
Hi Hasty,
Aww, thank you, that's OK, I'm just joking ;D :-*
BeaR.
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Haha - can't cope with too many boxes within boxes.
Who is this bear you speak of Hurdity?
Is it the BeaR who has been posting links regarding HRT availability? If so it might be useful to spell the posters name correctly. I find accuracy helps in such matters :)
Hasty - funnily enough I can spell "bear". This is a forum you know - capitalisation or not is usually the last thing on people's minds! ...and bear - I really don't mind one iota how you put my name - capitals or not - it's often even spelt incorrectly but hey...whoi cares as long as it remains polite?! ::)
It's World Menopause Day girls ;D
Hope we all have enough HRT to keep sane.....
Hurdity x
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Hi girls,
No more hoarding from now on. Yay. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/parallel-export-and-hoarding-of-restricted-medicines
BeaR.
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Haha - can't cope with too many boxes within boxes.
Who is this bear you speak of Hurdity?
Is it the BeaR who has been posting links regarding HRT availability? If so it might be useful to spell the posters name correctly. I find accuracy helps in such matters :)
Hasty - funnily enough I can spell "bear". This is a forum you know - capitalisation or not is usually the last thing on people's minds! ...and bear - I really don't mind one iota how you put my name - capitals or not - it's often even spelt incorrectly but hey...whoi cares as long as it remains polite?! ::)
It's World Menopause Day girls ;D
Hope we all have enough HRT to keep sane.....
Hurdity x
At a time when emotions are running high with both our political and medical certainties up in the air, sometimes ‘sorry, my mistake' goes a long way.
I'm not particularly bothered how someone spells my name, but for those who are, a little respect goes a long way and contributes to a more harmonious environment. It's just courtesy.
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Ladies so pleased some of you are getting your HRT.. :-* :-*
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Hi BeaR, Does this mean HRT supplies will be available again soon?
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Jaycee – it just means that there won't be stockpiling of HRT and wholesalers being able to re-sell in other EU countries at a profit. This is the news that Wrensong reported on this thread a couple of weeks ago and to which the BMS responded.
Sorry if this has already been posted elsewhere - have not been on the forum for a week or more. Interested to find the following BMS statement on government intervention wrt HRT supply shortages:-
https://thebms.org.uk/2019/10/bms-response-to-the-governments-new-measures-to-tackle-hrt-shortages/
Hope everyone is OK & managing to get theirs.
Wx
However unfortunately it won't alter the situation regarding any manufacturing issues so where this is an issue like we have known with Femseven for some time, and with Evorel etc as per the BMS info or the manufacturers direct – if production of a particular type of HRT stops or slows down (for whatever reason) then once the HRT left in the supply chain has been used up then presumably no more until the date given by the manufacturer ( as I understand it!). It may help though with where there appears to be uneven availability and to slow down the rapid rundown of supplies due to export - hopefully! However as women switch products due to unavailability of one then this can have knock on effects on other brands....so they may become scarce too :(
Thanks Rosebush - some of us have had to switch brands (eg of patch or tablet) and I feel for the women who cannot find a suitable alternative or for whom the alternative does not suit them, as we enter an enforced period of experimentation with our HRT!
At a time when emotions are running high with both our political and medical certainties up in the air, sometimes ‘sorry, my mistake' goes a long way.
I'm not particularly bothered how someone spells my name, but for those who are, a little respect goes a long way and contributes to a more harmonious environment. It's just courtesy.
For goodness sake Kilted Cupid lay off me with all of that – and hasty and bear with your earlier comments (especially on World Menopause Day FGS!) - so unnecessary.
Have a good weekend girls ::)
Hurdity x
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Hi BeaR, Does this mean HRT supplies will be available again soon?
Hi jaycee,
I hope so, but it's really hard to know. If the wholesalers have been stockpiling (not just for profit, but because they were told to do so before Brexit), it's possible that some products might become available again. Unfortunately, there are manufacturing issues that won't be affected by this measure, so it won't be the end of shortages.
BeaR.
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Jaycee – it just means that there won't be stockpiling of HRT and wholesalers being able to re-sell in other EU countries at a profit. This is the news that Wrensong reported on this thread a couple of weeks ago and to which the BMS responded.
Sorry if this has already been posted elsewhere - have not been on the forum for a week or more. Interested to find the following BMS statement on government intervention wrt HRT supply shortages:-
https://thebms.org.uk/2019/10/bms-response-to-the-governments-new-measures-to-tackle-hrt-shortages/
Hope everyone is OK & managing to get theirs.
Wx
However unfortunately it won't alter the situation regarding any manufacturing issues so where this is an issue like we have known with Femseven for some time, and with Evorel etc as per the BMS info or the manufacturers direct – if production of a particular type of HRT stops or slows down (for whatever reason) then once the HRT left in the supply chain has been used up then presumably no more until the date given by the manufacturer ( as I understand it!). It may help though with where there appears to be uneven availability and to slow down the rapid rundown of supplies due to export - hopefully! However as women switch products due to unavailability of one then this can have knock on effects on other brands....so they may become scarce too :(
Thanks Rosebush - some of us have had to switch brands (eg of patch or tablet) and I feel for the women who cannot find a suitable alternative or for whom the alternative does not suit them, as we enter an enforced period of experimentation with our HRT!
At a time when emotions are running high with both our political and medical certainties up in the air, sometimes ‘sorry, my mistake' goes a long way.
I'm not particularly bothered how someone spells my name, but for those who are, a little respect goes a long way and contributes to a more harmonious environment. It's just courtesy.
For goodness sake Kilted Cupid lay off me with all of that – and hasty and bear with your earlier comments (especially on World Menopause Day FGS!) - so unnecessary.
Have a good weekend girls ::)
Hurdity x
Hi hurdity,
The BMS link you have quoted has been published on 3rd Oct and the link I have posted https://www.gov.uk/guidance/parallel-export-and-hoarding-of-restricted-medicines has been published on 7th Oct, last updated on 8th Oct. You clearly didn't read it. It's not just about parallel export, it's about parallel export and hoarding of restricted medicines.
What comments on World Menopause Day? I have no idea what you're talking about ???
BeaR.
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Thank you,i realise shortages due to manufacturing problems will still carry on, but hopefully at least some others may be available again soon :)
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I suppose it's feasible that, given the withdrawal of fem7 for re-formulation, other patch manufacturers, particularly Evorel were swamped with demand and somewhere in the supply chain they decided to level this out. The domino effect would continue with other E only patch manufacturers. Don't know enough about supply chains but one large player pulling out would have a huge impact on the others. Can't understand why they weren't more prepared though? We're talking very big pharma here, this can't be a new thing and so I suspect Brexit stockpiling plays a part to some degree.
Hopefully, the initial high demand is now accounted for and some manufacturers have adapted to that demand, thereby evening out the supply overall.
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Well, my Special Delivery next day by 1pm written prescription that was posted to Oxford Pharmacy on Thursday still hasn't been delivered to them according to the tracking details. And I should have had a new patch on today. My own fault for not realising how the shortage would affect me.
But looks like I'm going to have to go at least a week before getting my HRT delivered as they don't order it in until they receive my prescription.
Hubby and dog say they're going to camp out in the cupboard under the stairs.
Happy Menopause Week, or whatever it is 😭😭
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Flossie Fiddler - my deliveries from oxford usually take 3 days. I've stopped all hrt in the past and am usually fine for a week or 2 but I know it's frightening. Hopefully Monday's postie will bring good news.
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Flossie Fiddler - my deliveries from oxford usually take 3 days. I've stopped all hrt in the past and am usually fine for a week or 2 but I know it's frightening. Hopefully Monday's postie will bring good news.
Thanks, hopefully I'll be OK until they arrive, and I'm hoping that by the time in need my next batch in 6 m months time, the supply chain will be fixed. Here's hoping.
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I have noticed that there is not much choice in patches for post menopausal women,
I don't want Evoral Conti ever again
Will wait and see what becomes available
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Flossie fiddler I hope they come soon 😫
Jaycee I know a lot of ladies don't live estrederm as quite large but I've tried every patch and this is best for me, has helped my energy to which is fab as I also have ME. Xx
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Hi girls,
Evorel has been added to MIMS drug shortages live tracker's list. :(
https://www.mims.co.uk/drug-shortages-live-tracker/article/1581516
BeaR.
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Yes - following on from the discussion last week and various links, Janssen updated their projected out of stock dates on 14th Oct and in case anyone is fed up with links I'll reproduce it here :yes::
"The Janssen UK team Evorel range of products supply interruption update as of 14th October 2019:
The table below provides further detail on the latest projected supply interruption dates across the Evorel range of products as of 14th October 2019. Please note these are projections only based on current demand and remaining stock levels. There is a possibility some local pharmacies may experience shortages prior to these dates depending on ongoing demand.
Patch description Latest projected UK stock out dates (as of 14th October 2019)
Evorel Conti 24x1 Out Of Stock
Evorel Conti 8x1 16th November 2019
Evorel Sequi 8x1 20th October 2019
Evorel 50MCG 24x1 14th November 2019
Evorel 50MCG 8x1 28th November 2019
Evorel 25MCG 8x1 14th February 2020
Evorel 100 MCG 8x1 25th October 2019
Evorel 75 MCG 8x1 1st November 2019 "
https://www.janssen.com/uk/hormone-replacement-therapy-hrt-shortages-uk
I presume this is their stock and so there will still be some in the supply chain with the wholesalers and the various other buyers, local depots and local pharmacies? However you can see where the greatest demand is from this....
Not sure what has happened to the 3 month supplies of the products for which they only give out of stock dates of a box of 8?
Hope this helps Evorel users work out their next move!
Flossie fiddler I hope they come soon 😫
Jaycee I know a lot of ladies don't live estrederm as quite large but I've tried every patch and this is best for me, has helped my energy to which is fab as I also have ME. Xx
Funnily enough despite their huge size I am getting used to Estraderm and fingers crossed flushes haven't returned so hopefully I am getting same dose - would encourage others using oestrogen only patches to try this...
I agree re the Evorel conti jaycee but many women swear by it - just goes to show how different well are :)
Hurdity x
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I'm on the evorel 25 and have been told they are already out of stock, the last 3 month prescription I had was sourced directly from manufacturers by the pharmacy at my drs. Can't use estraderm ones as had a reaction to it x
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I'm on the evorel 25 and have been told they are already out of stock, the last 3 month prescription I had was sourced directly from manufacturers by the pharmacy at my drs. Can't use estraderm ones as had a reaction to it x
HI Countrygirl,
I'm sorry to hear that. AAH has just published a form for Pharmacists to request restricted products. It could be useful to let your local Pharmacy know about this recently available simplified way of dealing with the shortages, if it deals with AAH.
https://www.aah.co.uk/resource/blob/29494/b2788893f7c64d2426619e49fef78d4a/restricted-product-request-form-data.pdf
BeaR.
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Looks like it is all Evoral I don't know about Estraderm , it's a pity that Evoral Conti affected my hair, as It did make me feel more energetic
There doesn't seem to be much choice patch wise for post meno really
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Looks like it is all Evoral I don't know about Estraderm , it's a pity that Evoral Conti affected my hair, as It did make me feel more energetic
There doesn't seem to be much choice patch wise for post meno really
Hi jaycee,
Forgive my menopausal short term memory, what has happened to your hair?
Norethisterone has been added to the parallel export blacklist https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/840056/Medicines_that_cannot_be_parallel_exported_from_the_UK_2.csv/preview
BeaR.
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Looks like it is all Evoral I don't know about Estraderm , it's a pity that Evoral Conti affected my hair, as It did make me feel more energetic
There doesn't seem to be much choice patch wise for post meno really
Hi jaycee,
Forgive my menopausal short term memory, what has happened to your hair?
Norethisterone has been added to the parallel export blacklist https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/840056/Medicines_that_cannot_be_parallel_exported_from_the_UK_2.csv/preview
BeaR.
Quite a few women have commented on Evorel causing noticeable hair loss. It hasn't affected me at all but my hair is very thick and fast growing.
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Countrygirl - I have oposite - Evorel is giving me sweelings and Estraderm is perfect. Ohh - and I saw Evorel 25 that they still had in my pharmacy - dunno if they still have it tho.
About Evorel - swellings was enough to stop using them. Still have a lot of hair :)
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Funnily enough despite their huge size I am getting used to Estraderm and fingers crossed flushes haven't returned so hopefully I am getting same dose - would encourage others using oestrogen only patches to try this...
I really like them. It is annoying they are so big that's why I use two 50 instead of 100 as they kept coming off. X
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Haha - yes I thought I said this Butterfly22! I was thinking - she's said the same as me!! Yes it is a pity they are huge - I keep having to feel that they're stuck down all over - which was easy with the Estradot but looks a bit odd with the Estraderm ;D
Hurdity x
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I think it's the noresthisterone that causes the hair loss. I'm on evorel 50 (oestrogen only) and my hair is absolutely fine x
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I might be asking a stupid question but will these all become available again at some point next year? Or are some manufacturers stopping production completely?
I'm on Evorel Conti and have a small stock which will get me through until next year, but wondered why they are not all starting production again?
I know there was the initial problem with glue with one manufacturer and this had led to knock-on effect of short supply but, why are the other manufacturers not working night & day to get supply back into circulation?
Surely if they all wait until next year there will be the same stock problems as everyone will be wanting their supplies!
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I'm on Everol 100 and my hair is absolutely fine as well, mind you it is thick & grows quickly!
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Ive just made an appointment to see my GP as I just cannot get my patches anywhere, I've got 3 weeks left of patches so hoping I can be given a suitable alternative. Clio
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Hiya. Just been told by pharmasist everol 100 available, sandrena 1.0mg gel available but estradot 100 still in the red. Xx
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hi perinowpost
u mention u take everol 50 patch and your hair has been fine ! have you noticed any other side effects ?
where do you apply your patch !
i've been using 2-3 pumps gel have had horrible hair loss ever since started estrogen 1 yr ago started on elleste solo mx40 patch and has got worse since so think it may be estradiol itself , i thought maybe an imbalance in hormones as i don't need progesterone but u say your hair has been fine x
also i use ovestin for VA but recently i've found the dampness in knickers getting worse the minute i sit down my underwear is wet . can't understand so as i've not been obsorbing the gel well and gained a lot weight i was thinking of trying the everol patch again if it will stick that was my problem it wouldn't stick ?
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Looks like it is all Evoral I don't know about Estraderm , it's a pity that Evoral Conti affected my hair, as It did make me feel more energetic
There doesn't seem to be much choice patch wise for post meno really
Hi jaycee,
Forgive my menopausal short term memory, what has happened to your hair?
Sorry BeaR, Just seen this, after using Evoral Conti my hair was falling out in front of my eyes just floating everywhere
I believe it was the norethisterone that caused it,my daughtet did the same,but I have even more bald patches ,
Norethisterone has been added to the parallel export blacklist https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/840056/Medicines_that_cannot_be_parallel_exported_from_the_UK_2.csv/preview
BeaR.
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Hi Sammiejane
No I've never had any problems re hair loss. I love evorel it makes me feel like me again. I have absolutely no side effects from it apart from a little bloating around the abdomen. I feel if I came off hrt that would go, but it's not a risk I'm prepared to take as I don't want to feel like I did pre-hrt, so it's worth it to me. I watch my diet carefully and eat a mainly plant based diet (which helps) and I've remained a size 12. I put the patches on my lower abdomen, alternating sites each time, I've never had any issues with them sticking (I don't use body moisturiser).
Hope this helps x
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perinowpost
hi there
can everol be used on the abdomen i thought they had to go in the buttocks ?
maybe i'll retry them !
u just take everol nothing else ?
what is your dose
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Yes they can go on your abdomen. I tried them on my butt but didn't get any absorption. I'm on evorel 50, which is an average dose. I also take progesterone in the form of utrogestan, I take that vaginally x
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perinowpost
i take estrogel but not obsorbing but have some everol patches 50 from before i don't need progesterone as i've had hysterectomy although menopause said i can try progesterone as wondered if an imbalance causing my hairloss !
they have given me utrogestan to try but orally ! my other option i'm thinking about as i have no ovaries is the combined pill as i had no issues on this
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You don't say how old you are Sammiejane (apologies if I've missed it). If you've no issues with the combined pill at least that's always an option open to you x
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hi perinowpost
i'm only 40 ! i had everything removed at 35 but as i smoke and may age they are reluctant , but with all the hrt shortages and not obsorbing from the gel may be my only option !
my gynocologist said he doesn't see a problem with it yes there is a risk of Dvt and blood clots but then there is with HRT particularly the tablets which was what i was put on in the very beginning but vomited on then so swapped me to the patch and it didn't suit so was told by rubbish GP at the time hrt dosent suit you so u can't take it hence the no hrt for years and now i'm paying the price with vaginally bladder bowel problems so thanks to them ! but then now i'm better then i was mentally but hot flushes gone 3 pumps gel but i'm not obsorbing my levels are still low hairloss still an issue and vaginally symtoms getting worse so god knows my knickers constantly damp despite using ovestin there's no significant prolapse but something isn't right i can feel it , i've had mri on pelvis and all normal organs in correct place but i get twitches in my urethra wee hole or spasms and then knickers damp the minute i sit down not sure if it is wee dosent smell like wee ! but i'm going to do an experiment i'm going to wee in a jug pour a bit over my knickers and smell and then smell my damp knickers and see if it's the same x lol
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I couldn't get Estradot anywhere so now have Estradem, thanks to me asking the pharmacy to tell the GP what they could get instead of the GP guessing! I was freaking out a bit as I have a Jaydess IUS and was worrying that having that without any estrogen would be all my progesterone bad things back.
The 75 is huge and I've been warming it my hands then sticking it on my thigh (only place flat enough that I don't bend in some way) and then warming it a bit more with the hairdryer. This was a tip from twitter after I mentioned that they weren't that sticky.
I feel fine, which is good although this cycle has been 8 days longer than any previously. That may just be things evolving though and it's still very light - just a small puddle in my mooncup every day.
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Orangefoot - they are indeed huge ::) - and bigger than my palm! I have done just as you have done (Estradot to Estraderm) and yes I warm my hand and butt with hairdryer before sticking and often in the morning just warm up the place where it's stuck (from a distance) and make sure it is still stuck down.
I started a thread here so might be worth adding your experience to that too eg where you stick it etc?
https://www.menopausematters.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,45474.15.html
So far so good for me too, and what's more they don't leave black marks at all (unlike Estradot!)
Hurdity x
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Looks like it is all Evoral I don't know about Estraderm , it's a pity that Evoral Conti affected my hair, as It did make me feel more energetic
There doesn't seem to be much choice patch wise for post meno really
Hi jaycee,
Forgive my menopausal short term memory, what has happened to your hair?
Norethisterone has been added to the parallel export blacklist https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/840056/Medicines_that_cannot_be_parallel_exported_from_the_UK_2.csv/preview
BeaR.
BeaR what does it mean exactly, Norethisterone added t parallel export shortlist? for some reason I got it into my head it was being discontinued.sorry if I seem a bit thick regarding this meaning
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Hi Jaycee,
Norethisterone is not a branded pharmaceutical, it's a progestogen that is part of many branded products, like Evorel and many contraceptives. It has been added to the parallel export BLACKLIST, meaning it cannot be exported to other countries in the EU, in order to remain available to UK patients.
BeaR.
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BeaR what does it mean exactly, Norethisterone added t parallel export shortlist? for some reason I got it into my head it was being discontinued.sorry if I seem a bit thick regarding this meaning
You're not in the least bit thick jaycee! All of this is quite obscure unless you follow it closely and not all obvious, and not always relevant to most of us on here - as there is so much going on!
If you remember a few weeks ago there was some publicity about HRT shortages and Govt stepping in to prevent stockpiling and the unbelievable practice (which most of us had no idea was possible) of a UK drugs wholesaler IMPORTING a product from elsewhere in EU, holding it in UK, and then RE-SELLING at a higher price outside UK ie back to EU, further down the supply chain.
In addition to being part of many branded products norethisterone is a generic drug that is also available separately - often prescribed off-licence as part of HRT but more usually for heavy bleeding - so it's probably this formulation that is being prevented from being exported. The fairly recent addition of this drug alone probably des not concern most of us on HRT as it is not often prescribed on its own for HRT.
Just to be absolutely clear, all products on the list are known by their generic name so for example if you look at the entry for "Estradiol" - it says "any". This mean any formulation of estradiol only - pills, patches or gel, or vagifem - cannot be re-exported. All current HRT formulations (ie Evorel etc) were on the list when it was first compiled on 4th October.
Hurdity x
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As I have posted on another thread,i did read,but can't remember where that there was some concern about norethisterone's side effects and it sounded as if it was going to be not used much in future,and not recommended
I wish I could find it,it was somewhere among the reports about the shortages
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Good, I hated noresthisterone, I found it much too harsh and not fit for purpose X
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As I have posted on another thread,i did read,but can't remember where that there was some concern about norethisterone's side effects and it sounded as if it was going to be not used much in future,and not recommended
I wish I could find it,it was somewhere among the reports about the shortages
Is this the post by shropshirelass you are thinking of, jaycee?
'Re: Link to Guardian article this morning re increased breast cancer risk on HRT
« Reply #229 on: September 05, 2019, 10:31:40 AM »
"With an average use of 10 years of MHT in current users at diagnosis, and 7 years in past users, much of the exposure to MHT preceded the first publication of the Women's Health Initiative study, after which prescribing practices changed substantially. Consequently, virtually all of the included information pertains to MHT formulations and doses known to have adverse breast effects that are no longer recommended. Specifically, the use of the progestogens medroxyprogesterone acetate and norethisterone (norethindrone) is now discouraged because of their known adverse effects, but these account for nearly all of the data for combined estrogen-progestogen therapy included in the paper.
I had no idea norethisterone is no longer recommended and now discouraged. (!)"
Anyone who is using evorel sequi or evorel conti will be using norethisterone. This treatment was recommended to me at a menopause clinic. I want to know what adverse effects are being referred to and whether I should consider other options when any become available.
« Last Edit: September 05, 2019, 12:14:15 PM by shrosphirelass'
From https://www.menopausematters.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,45086.225.html
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Good detective work ladies!
I find it an absolutely brutal prog. I'm sure it has its uses but as a product for combined hrt, it's really harsh. I wonder if that's why their manufacturing plant has been bought out by theramex?
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Jenna,yes thank you that is the one, very clever of you to find it,i have searched several times, but couldn't remember where i saw it
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Hi girls,
Regarding norethisterone, I think those results are for ORAL preparations, but I will check the study and report back.
Regarding the recent Theramex acquisiton of Janssen's Evorel portfolio... It's not a simple operation. Janssen's press release states that Theramex currently anticipates 're-launching the product range in their packaging by Q1 2020'. https://www.janssen.com/uk/hormone-replacement-therapy-hrt-shortages-uk They also say 'that the agreement with Theramex is not the cause or the reason for the current shortage of the Evorel range.'Well, now that they have mentioned it... ::)
Regarding FemSeven... the patent (estradiol and levonorgestrel transdermal patches) has expired. I think Theramex was trying to prolong the patent by modifying the adhesive matrix. This is a well known strategy to delay entry of generics to the market https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6688687/ Let's hope they will succeed in the next few months or a new generic product will be available.
BeaR.
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Oh dear, well the HRT shortage has finally reached me (Scottish Highlands). I went to get my prescription for Evorel Sequi, and was told by by the pharmacist that they were informed by their supplier that it wasn't available until June 2020. No instructions from the GP re alternatives, so I guess that is up to me to sort out! Our practice is not good at out the box thinking.
Are oestrogel cream and progesterone cream close substitutes because the sequi combo works really really well for me. I'm soo worried about slipping backwards. Any thoughts would be helpful. TIA
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Oh dear, well the HRT shortage has finally reached me (Scottish Highlands). I went to get my prescription for Evorel Sequi, and was told by by the pharmacist that they were informed by their supplier that it wasn't available until June 2020. No instructions from the GP re alternatives, so I guess that is up to me to sort out! Our practice is not good at out the box thinking.
Are oestrogel cream and progesterone cream close substitutes because the sequi combo works really really well for me. I'm soo worried about slipping backwards. Any thoughts would be helpful. TIA
They are still available here. You don't pay these prices if you can send them an NHS prescription https://www.theindependentpharmacy.co.uk/menopause-hrt/evorel-sequi
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Katejo, thank you soo much for the link , I've just filled out their forms and the order is in “process “, hopefully it will be successful.
However I've just had a phone call from the GP and at present they are recommending a tablet! But I am having a proper teleconference with a GP on Friday, so hopefully that won't be their only suggestions! What on earth are these people thinking of?
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Hi Jaycee,
Norethisterone is not a branded pharmaceutical, it's a progestogen that is part of many branded products, like Evorel and many contraceptives. It has been added to the parallel export BLACKLIST, meaning it cannot be exported to other countries in the EU, in order to remain available to UK patients.
BeaR.
I don't know why there is suddenly this unnecessary fuss about norethisterone bear, which as I said is not normally prescribed separately as part of HRT!!! It's the oestrogen only and combi products we are most interested in as the progestogens seem to be widely available as far as I know.
As I have posted on another thread,i did read,but can't remember where that there was some concern about norethisterone's side effects and it sounded as if it was going to be not used much in future,and not recommended
I wish I could find it,it was somewhere among the reports about the shortages
The thread that you referred to jaycee and shropshirelass's quote which Jenna found on the thread about the Lancet paper at the end of August....is an extract from the International Menopause Society's response to the study. In fact nowhere in the IMS 2016 recommendations on HRT do they specifically say that norethisterone is not going to be used as far as I can see, so for the time being anyone who is happy with it can relax!
However the much criticised Lancet paper ( which is the subject of detailed comment on the thread jenna found so not really relevant to this thread) found no difference in risks between oestrogen and the 3 main different progestogens - ie MPA ( Provera), levonorgestrel, and norethisterone in increase in breast cancer risk. It has been known for some time that progesterone and the closely related synthetic dydrogesterone are likely to be associated with lower breast cancer risk than all these synthetics. The much criticised WHI study used MPA (Provera) and since then it is known that this progestogen in particular has been associated with increased risk - but that study was flawed anyway!
Let's not get too hung up about it eh? Many women thrive on any of these synthetic progestogens and it is thought that under 60 there is very low overall risk of breast cancer anyway.
Personally I don't like norethisterone, have never tried Provera nor levonorgestrel, nor would I, but I would take dydrogesterone if it were available separately!
Bear there are no generic oestrogen only or combi HRT products apart from estriol cream. I mean it would be good if there were but I can't see that happening any time soon unless there is govt/NHS intervention - I think Jeremy Corbyn promised he would try to initiate this in recent Labour conference.
Much of this is speculation and not sure we can second guess anything really can we? I really think that either we just watch and wait - or contact BMS members and put pressure on them to influence big pharma - if they have any sway at all, or contact the manufcaturers ourselves if we are concerned about any products. I think better to try to effect change or influence the outcome if we can. I am sure that BMS will be doing their absolute utmost to ensure that the widest possible selection of HRT types is available to us - but whether they can influence commercial decisions taken miles away - who knows?!
Hurdity x
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Oh dear, well the HRT shortage has finally reached me (Scottish Highlands). I went to get my prescription for Evorel Sequi, and was told by by the pharmacist that they were informed by their supplier that it wasn't available until June 2020. No instructions from the GP re alternatives, so I guess that is up to me to sort out! Our practice is not good at out the box thinking.
Are oestrogel cream and progesterone cream close substitutes because the sequi combo works really really well for me. I'm soo worried about slipping backwards. Any thoughts would be helpful. TIA
Hi ChocIce
if you can't get your patches before they are manufactured again, then oestrogel is fine - it is a gel rather than a cream, but progesterone cream is only available privately not on NHS and not recommended as part of hRT. What you would need for bio-identical HRT is utrogestan (along with the gel) which is micronised progesterone in the form of a capsule which can be used orally or vaginally.
Don;t be persuaded to take a tablet against your will - it is your right to keep to transdermal products if this is what you prefer and if your formulary or whatever the Scottish equivalent is - doesn;t normally stock these products - they;re going to have to change pretty quickly if women;s preferred combos aren;t available!!
Good luck :)
Hurdity x
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Hi Jaycee,
Norethisterone is not a branded pharmaceutical, it's a progestogen that is part of many branded products, like Evorel and many contraceptives. It has been added to the parallel export BLACKLIST, meaning it cannot be exported to other countries in the EU, in order to remain available to UK patients.
BeaR.
I don't know why there is suddenly this unnecessary fuss about norethisterone bear, which as I said is not normally prescribed separately as part of HRT!!! It's the oestrogen only and combi products we are most interested in as the progestogens seem to be widely available as far as I know.
As I have posted on another thread,i did read,but can't remember where that there was some concern about norethisterone's side effects and it sounded as if it was going to be not used much in future,and not recommended
I wish I could find it,it was somewhere among the reports about the shortages
The thread that you referred to jaycee and shropshirelass's quote which Jenna found on the thread about the Lancet paper at the end of August....is an extract from the International Menopause Society's response to the study. In fact nowhere in the IMS 2016 recommendations on HRT do they specifically say that norethisterone is not going to be used as far as I can see, so for the time being anyone who is happy with it can relax!
However the much criticised Lancet paper ( which is the subject of detailed comment on the thread jenna found so not really relevant to this thread) found no difference in risks between oestrogen and the 3 main different progestogens - ie MPA ( Provera), levonorgestrel, and norethisterone in increase in breast cancer risk. It has been known for some time that progesterone and the closely related synthetic dydrogesterone are likely to be associated with lower breast cancer risk than all these synthetics. The much criticised WHI study used MPA (Provera) and since then it is known that this progestogen in particular has been associated with increased risk - but that study was flawed anyway!
Let's not get too hung up about it eh? Many women thrive on any of these synthetic progestogens and it is thought that under 60 there is very low overall risk of breast cancer anyway.
Personally I don't like norethisterone, have never tried Provera nor levonorgestrel, nor would I, but I would take dydrogesterone if it were available separately!
Bear there are no generic oestrogen only or combi HRT products apart from estriol cream. I mean it would be good if there were but I can't see that happening any time soon unless there is govt/NHS intervention - I think Jeremy Corbyn promised he would try to initiate this in recent Labour conference.
Much of this is speculation and not sure we can second guess anything really can we? I really think that either we just watch and wait - or contact BMS members and put pressure on them to influence big pharma - if they have any sway at all, or contact the manufcaturers ourselves if we are concerned about any products. I think better to try to effect change or influence the outcome if we can. I am sure that BMS will be doing their absolute utmost to ensure that the widest possible selection of HRT types is available to us - but whether they can influence commercial decisions taken miles away - who knows?!
Hurdity x
I've had it prescribed, separately, alongside oestrogen only patches.
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I managed to get my Evorel 50 for another month. I've got three months stored up now by lengthening the time I keep a patch on. I appreciate that I can do this more easily as I don't need progesterone due to hysterectomy. This was on the advice of the pharmacist as he said Evorel 50 will become unavailable next month until mid 2020? :'(
Taz x
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Well, I went for my 6 month check yesterday and my GP practice were great! She rang the chemist (while I was still in the appt with her) about my evorel 50 and they said they had been able to get some direct from Jansen a few days ago. Wrote me a 6 month prescription and told me to come straight back if it was unavailable.
Chemist rang Jansen while I was in the shop ( I KNOW....great service) and were told my patches will be in the shop in 3 working days. No extra charge to either me or to the chemist for the delivery.
I am flabbergasted as was expecting to need to switch to another form of estrogen.
So, now it's fingers crossed it all actually arrives, but anyone else on evorel, suggest you ask to pharmacy to call Janssen.
Sparkler
X
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Well, I went for my 6 month check yesterday and my GP practice were great! She rang the chemist (while I was still in the appt with her) about my evorel 50 and they said they had been able to get some direct from Jansen a few days ago. Wrote me a 6 month prescription and told me to come straight back if it was unavailable.
Chemist rang Jansen while I was in the shop ( I KNOW....great service) and were told my patches will be in the shop in 3 working days. No extra charge to either me or to the chemist for the delivery.
I am flabbergasted as was expecting to need to switch to another form of estrogen.
So, now it's fingers crossed it all actually arrives, but anyone else on evorel, suggest you ask to pharmacy to call Janssen.
Sparkler
X
I have tried that but Boots refuses to do it. I am also owed some patches from an independent high st pharmacy which insists that it can't get them. I had a go at Boots on their FB page this week but got nowhere.
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Great service sparkler! Good news.
Yes kilted cupid I know - I said so - but that's not the point!! It's going off on a tangent. As I said the main products that everyone is concerned about getting hold of at the moment - are oestrogen and combi products, not off-licence generic progestogens.
Fingers crossed Taz - if not I do recommend Estraderm - until that becomes in short supply!
Hurdity x
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Katejo,
can you suggest to the indep pharmacy that they call the manufacturer? It took the one I went to about 40 seconds, so they could do it. I get why Boots refuse, although I am appalled about it, but maybe somewhere else could help you.
S
X
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Hi Jaycee,
Norethisterone is not a branded pharmaceutical, it's a progestogen that is part of many branded products, like Evorel and many contraceptives. It has been added to the parallel export BLACKLIST, meaning it cannot be exported to other countries in the EU, in order to remain available to UK patients.
BeaR.
I don't know why there is suddenly this unnecessary fuss about norethisterone bear, which as I said is not normally prescribed separately as part of HRT!!! It's the oestrogen only and combi products we are most interested in as the progestogens seem to be widely available as far as I know.
As I have posted on another thread,i did read,but can't remember where that there was some concern about norethisterone's side effects and it sounded as if it was going to be not used much in future,and not recommended
I wish I could find it,it was somewhere among the reports about the shortages
The thread that you referred to jaycee and shropshirelass's quote which Jenna found on the thread about the Lancet paper at the end of August....is an extract from the International Menopause Society's response to the study. In fact nowhere in the IMS 2016 recommendations on HRT do they specifically say that norethisterone is not going to be used as far as I can see, so for the time being anyone who is happy with it can relax!
However the much criticised Lancet paper ( which is the subject of detailed comment on the thread jenna found so not really relevant to this thread) found no difference in risks between oestrogen and the 3 main different progestogens - ie MPA ( Provera), levonorgestrel, and norethisterone in increase in breast cancer risk. It has been known for some time that progesterone and the closely related synthetic dydrogesterone are likely to be associated with lower breast cancer risk than all these synthetics. The much criticised WHI study used MPA (Provera) and since then it is known that this progestogen in particular has been associated with increased risk - but that study was flawed anyway!
Let's not get too hung up about it eh? Many women thrive on any of these synthetic progestogens and it is thought that under 60 there is very low overall risk of breast cancer anyway.
Personally I don't like norethisterone, have never tried Provera nor levonorgestrel, nor would I, but I would take dydrogesterone if it were available separately!
Bear there are no generic oestrogen only or combi HRT products apart from estriol cream. I mean it would be good if there were but I can't see that happening any time soon unless there is govt/NHS intervention - I think Jeremy Corbyn promised he would try to initiate this in recent Labour conference.
Much of this is speculation and not sure we can second guess anything really can we? I really think that either we just watch and wait - or contact BMS members and put pressure on them to influence big pharma - if they have any sway at all, or contact the manufcaturers ourselves if we are concerned about any products. I think better to try to effect change or influence the outcome if we can. I am sure that BMS will be doing their absolute utmost to ensure that the widest possible selection of HRT types is available to us - but whether they can influence commercial decisions taken miles away - who knows?!
Hurdity x
Hi hurdity,
What 'fuss'? ??? I was only replying to jaycee. No fuss at all.
Are you implying that all we can discuss on this forum is HRT? I think many of us have daughters who are on contraceptives and some younger women with premature ovarian failure or in perimenopause have already posted on the forum asking for information on contraceptives.
Regarding the IMS quote from August 2019, what does the IMS 2016 recommendation has to do with it?
Regarding the 'much criticised' (where??) Lancet paper, would you mind posting where in the paper is stated that they 'found no difference in risks between oestrogen and the 3 main different progestogens - ie MPA ( Provera), levonorgestrel, and norethisterone in increase in breast cancer risk.'?
'Let's not get too hung up about it eh? Many women thrive on any of these synthetic progestogens and it is thought that under 60 there is very low overall risk of breast cancer anyway.' I'm glad for them, but many other women have serious side effects, so this is not particularly pertinent to what jaycee and I were discussing.
Regarding GENERIC HRT, I'm well aware they are not available in the UK, but that's just a matter of time, many patch patents have expired this year, and no, it's not up to the government and the NHS to decide that, it's up to the pharmaceutical companies. The NHS will welcome them, I have no doubt about it.
I don't call it 'speculation', I call it thinking outside the box. I don't 'watch and wait', I like to gather evidence and draw my own conclusions. I'm not just worried about my own menopausal issues, I want to be proactive and try to help changing things, if they can be changed, for the benefit of every person whose quality of life depends on them.
BeaR.
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Hi girls,
Back to the thread subject... Tostran 2% gel has been added to MIMS live tracker and AAH out of stock notice board.
https://www.mims.co.uk/drug-shortages-live-tracker/article/1581516
https://www.aah.co.uk/resource/blob/29878/91004f2c5b1c1ffdb05afff5f7509197/stock-bulletin-data.pdf
BeaR.
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Just thought I'd update you all. I have just had an email from the independent pharmacy, and , I can't quite believe it, but they are apparently sending me my prescription.
I will still speak to the GP though, I am still going to need an alternative for when this box runs out.
At least I've bought myself another few weeks.
Thank you Katejo.
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Well said BeaR, I don't think it's making a fuss when women are affected badly by some medication,
Norethisterone has very bad side effects for some women, some have had very heavy bleeding
I didn't thank goodness but the hair loss was bad enough for me
Unfortunately a lot of patches especially have it as a progesterone
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Agree Jaycee - I know there's women who get on with it but those who don't, REALLY don't. There's a plethora of progestins available and I've no idea why manufacturers don't use more of the 3rd and 4th generation progestins, more commonly used in the bcp. They're much more user friendly and even dydrogesterone which is apparently the most similar to natural prog has a terrible effect on me. Drospirenone as used in Angelique had the least side effects for me. I know someone who uses dieogest very successfully. We need more choice!
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Hey jaycee – before we leave this subject just wanted to clarify in view of your comment as it sounds like you think I disagree with talking about norethisterone per se! Not at all! I thought I had explained in my posts but maybe not clearly enough – sorry. Yes of course many of us are affected badly by some meds including norethisterone – absolutely (I am one!) – but that wasn't the subject of this thread especially nor the reason for my comment. As said earlier – it was the comments ( and then subsequent discussion and some misunderstanding) about norethisterone being added to the export blacklist – that is not really the main point re HRT products (and specifically the oestrogen containing ones), because it was taking it off on a tangent and many women want to find out what the important updates are.
As I said earlier – ALL the HRT products and formulations including ALL the norethisterone combinations have already been added to the list of HRT that shouldn't be exported when the list was first compiled in eaerly October – including MPA the licensed progestogen for HRT. Yes norethisterone is occasionally prescribed but it's not what most women are concerned about on here – in terms of us worrying about it not being available separately! Hope that's clear now?
re your comments bear – I was talking about this thread not the forum – obviously. If we want to discuss our daughters' contraception (I don't actually know what my daughter uses!) then there are plenty of places to discuss it!! Other health discussion for example. This is the All Things menopause board and this thread is specifically about HRT products and supplies. I can see you are very knowledgeable, interested and vigilant in looking at drugs supply so why not start a thread in Other Health discussion where you can put all of these updates (ie other products including contraception, as well as HRT on this one) and more as I am sure women will be interested in whether any of their other meds are becoming scarce – especially in view of the latest uncertainties over the big fat B word?! The Lancet paper has a detailed thread of its own – and was only brought up here as a result of your norethisterone post so I won't take this thread further off topic.
Hurdity x
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Re Tostran - hopefully most women will have large quantities of this if it has been prescribed in the doses for men. eg I have Testogel and I got a whole box with my last recent prescrption - which will last 18 months. Unfortunately as we don't have a licensed T preparation for women, then this won't appear on that blacklist for export - not sure if would appear on another list (for men) if it appears their T becomes in short supply? Fortunately there are two other T preparations - although really the same product in different strengths - Testogel sachets and pump pack.
Hurdity x
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As I said earlier – ALL the HRT products and formulations including ALL the norethisterone combinations have already been added to the list of HRT that shouldn't be exported when the list was first compiled in eaerly October – including MPA the licensed progestogen for HRT. Yes norethisterone is occasionally prescribed but it's not what most women are concerned about on here – in terms of us worrying about it not being available separately! Hope that's clear now?
re your comments bear – I was talking about this thread not the forum – obviously. If we want to discuss our daughters' contraception (I don't actually know what my daughter uses!) then there are plenty of places to discuss it!! Other health discussion for example. This is the All Things menopause board and this thread is specifically about HRT products and supplies. I can see you are very knowledgeable, interested and vigilant in looking at drugs supply so why not start a thread in Other Health discussion where you can put all of these updates (ie other products including contraception, as well as HRT on this one) and more as I am sure women will be interested in whether any of their other meds are becoming scarce – especially in view of the latest uncertainties over the big fat B word?! The Lancet paper has a detailed thread of its own – and was only brought up here as a result of your norethisterone post so I won't take this thread further off topic.
Hurdity x
Hi again,
Maybe you are not familiar with parallel trade, norethisterone can be imported/exported in bulk, as well as a finished packaged pharmaceutical.
BeaR.
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Hi Ladies,
I have just gone onto the MYLAN site:
https://mywayhub.co.uk/en-gb/range
And they appear to have Femoston1/10 IN STOCK :) :o :o :o - am I right? I am due for a new prescription soon and have been dreading it ::). I have had a realy crap week with my meno brain, so I do hope that it is in stock.
By the way thanks to all you knowledgeable lot.
PMX
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Hi pepperminty,
Yes! AAH hasn't updated their out of stock list, but hopefully that will change soon. Only Elleste Duet Conti and Zumenon 2mg are still unavailable at Mylan's. Great news!
BeaR.
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Hi pepperminty,
Yes! AAH hasn't updated their out of stock list, but hopefully that will change soon. Only Elleste Duet Conti and Zumenon 2mg are still unavailable at Mylan's. Great news!
BeaR.
Thanks BeaR- Just called my chemist who said they still can't get it! So called another and they said they had 2 packs, so I have called my GP and asked for a prescription early ( by 2 months) I pointed out there was no chance of me over dosing , but there was a chance of me going insane if I didn't have a stash of HRT in case!
PMX
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Hi pepperminty,
Yes! AAH hasn't updated their out of stock list, but hopefully that will change soon. Only Elleste Duet Conti and Zumenon 2mg are still unavailable at Mylan's. Great news!
BeaR.
Thanks BeaR- Just called my chemist who said they still can't get it! So called another and they said they had 2 packs, so I have called my GP and asked for a prescription early ( by 2 months) I pointed out there was no chance of me over dosing , but there was a chance of me going insane if I didn't have a stash of HRT in case!
PMX
Yes, that's what I thought. It takes some time to get the logistics running smoothly again, but if Mylan says they are back in stock that's a relief. I'm sure you won't need to go insane. ;D
BeaR.
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The BMS has just produced a list of alternative HRT preparations in light of the shortages and have spelt it out for each type of hRT women might be taking.
https://thebms.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/HRT-alternatives-04.11.2019.pdf
This information is, of coure, available on this website (Menopause Matters) under the Treatments section/HRT preparations for anyone who cares to look, too!
Hurdity x
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Great, thank you Hurdity :)
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Thanks for that link Hurdity, I am just starting on an alternative and that has really helped :thankyou:
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Really helpful link, thanks Hurdity xx
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Believe it or not I just got my Everol 100 prescription filled - went to doctors to try to get alternative, he phoned their local independent pharmacist who had it in stock, which previously it wasn't....I didn't question where they got it....just took it with thanks!
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Thanks Hurdity but Estradot isn't available. At least not where I live!
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Thanks for the posting the link Hurdity. It's very informative.
Rosie x
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Thanks Hurdity, useful info x
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I've got an appointment with my GP today regarding my hrt patches, I too cannot get hold of them, the gynecologist who removed my polyp said I should think about coming off hrt in the next 5 - 10 years so was wondering if I should try and come off it now as I've been on it 13 years, went on it at 39 and I'm 52 now what do you ladies think, I just don't want all them symptoms again 😔😈😱
Clio
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I wouldn't stop, as at 52 you are only at the natural age of menopause now. All things being equal you can stay on HRT for the rest of your life. I was taken off it at 54 and it was the top of the slippery slope for me.
JP x
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My doc has prescribed estradot 50 patches and utrogestan 100mg capsules in place of everol sequi. Even these have been hard to get hold off. The 3rd chemist I went to said they have ordered them for me and will be in tomorrow, fingers crossed they do come in. Has anyone else been given these as an alternative??
Clio
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Hi girls,
Updates from Theramex, nothing new really.
https://www.theramex.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Evorel-UK-Stock-Update-from-Theramex.pdf
https://www.theramex.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/FemSeven-UK-Stock-Update-121119.pdf
Hope everyone is doing well.
BeaR.
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Janssen have since produced a more detailed list of their stock availability here which I came across when another member posted about being prescribed Evorel 25....
https://www.janssen.com/uk/hormone-replacement-therapy-hrt-shortages-uk (as at 13th November).
"The Janssen UK team Evorel range of products supply interruption update as of 13th November 2019:
The table below provides further detail on the latest projected supply interruption dates across the Evorel range of products as of 13th November 2019. Please note these are projections only based on current demand and remaining Janssen stock levels. There is a possibility some local pharmacies may experience shortages prior to these dates depending on ongoing demand.
Patch description Latest projected Janssen UK stock out dates (as of 13th November 2019)
Evorel Conti 24x1 Out Of Stock
Evorel Conti 8x1 21st November 2019
Evorel Sequi 8x1 Out of Stock
Evorel 50MCG 24x1 Out of Stock
Evorel 50MCG 8x1 Out of Stock*
Evorel 25MCG 8x1 27th November 2019*
Evorel 100 MCG 8x1 Out of Stock
Evorel 75 MCG 8x1 Out of Stock"
Hurdity x
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My doc has prescribed estradot 50 patches and utrogestan 100mg capsules in place of everol sequi. Even these have been hard to get hold off. The 3rd chemist I went to said they have ordered them for me and will be in tomorrow, fingers crossed they do come in. Has anyone else been given these as an alternative??
Clio
Your post got missed....I had something different! Estradot was out of stock from my dispensary's supplier (which I'd been using for 12 + years) so I was switched to Estraderm - but I think more have become available recently? There were plenty of these when I last got my prescription but they are ginormous! (Evorel are quite big though too?). I was happy with Estradot and now equally happy on estraderm apart from the size ::)
Hurdity x
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I'm having trouble getting Estradot or Evorel. I tried an independent pharmacy today who said supplies of both are “sporadicâ€. Estraderm gives me a rash.
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I'm having trouble getting Estradot or Evorel. I tried an independent pharmacy today who said supplies of both are “sporadicâ€. Estraderm gives me a rash.
Wilks - have you tried online pharmacies? They will accept a prescription at usual costs.
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I'm having trouble getting Estradot or Evorel. I tried an independent pharmacy today who said supplies of both are “sporadicâ€. Estraderm gives me a rash.
Wilks - have you tried online pharmacies? They will accept a prescription at usual costs.
Yes I have just got a further 12 weeks supply of Evorel Conti this way. They only allow 3 boxes of 8 patches at a time.
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Hi Ladies
I see that many of you are worried about the HRT shortages so just thought I'd share this, hope it will benefit someone...
The Independent Pharmacy (a proper reputable and regulated online pharmacy) still had my HRT available to buy privately through their website (£36 or so for 3 months supply) but when I checked the same product as NHS prescription on the same website, it was not available.
I was desperate in the past so I paid for my HRT to get it so now I have a reserve, it's peace of mind
Good luck ! Xx
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Thanks for the link on alternatives Hurdity, which Ive just looked at. I am on Evorel 125mcg (100 & 25 patches)patch See alternative using gel is "If taking Evorel 100: Oestrogel 4 measures a day (2 am and 2 pm) would give an equivalent" Is that really suggesting I'd need to get up at 2am to apply gel :-\ ;)
Have just requested my usual 2 month supply. Not sure what I will be able to get. Fortunately, I have been able to stock up a bit using Independent Pharmacy for Evorel 25, and a couple of friends who manged to get me some Estraderm in Majorca (but was told there is a shortage there too) and Seville, while on their holidays.
Have also requested Tostran, but have just read thats short now as as well...............
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Found this info on testosterone dosage for women, on Chelsea and Westminster menopause website. Thought it might be helpful for anyone needing to switch from tostran to testogel
https://www.chelwest.nhs.uk/services/womens-health-services/gynaecology-services/menopause-and-pms-clinics/special-notices
hope its the right place to post it
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Thanks for the link on alternatives Hurdity, which Ive just looked at. I am on Evorel 125mcg (100 & 25 patches)patch See alternative using gel is "If taking Evorel 100: Oestrogel 4 measures a day (2 am and 2 pm) would give an equivalent" Is that really suggesting I'd need to get up at 2am to apply gel :-\ ;)
Have just requested my usual 2 month supply. Not sure what I will be able to get. Fortunately, I have been able to stock up a bit using Independent Pharmacy for Evorel 25, and a couple of friends who manged to get me some Estraderm in Majorca (but was told there is a shortage there too) and Seville, while on their holidays.
Have also requested Tostran, but have just read thats short now as as well...............
Haha! Yes it's very misleading. Had a look at the link in more detail and what they mean is 2 pumps in the morning and 2 pumps in the afternoon/evening. If they had written the word "pump" it would not have been ambiguous! Can you imagine getting up 2 am to apply gel ;D
Hurdity x
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Found this info on testosterone dosage for women, on Chelsea and Westminster menopause website. Thought it might be helpful for anyone needing to switch from tostran to testogel
https://www.chelwest.nhs.uk/services/womens-health-services/gynaecology-services/menopause-and-pms-clinics/special-notices
hope its the right place to post it
Hi again Rose B - thanks! It's not actually the right place as this is the thread about HRT shortages from pharmas etc but it's very helpful so here is the thread about T dosages etc - perhaps you could also post your link there? I'll bump it!
https://www.menopausematters.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,39588.0.html
Hurdity x
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Hi Ladies
I see that many of you are worried about the HRT shortages so just thought I'd share this, hope it will benefit someone...
The Independent Pharmacy (a proper reputable and regulated online pharmacy) still had my HRT available to buy privately through their website (£36 or so for 3 months supply) but when I checked the same product as NHS prescription on the same website, it was not available.
I was desperate in the past so I paid for my HRT to get it so now I have a reserve, it's peace of mind
Good luck ! Xx
I have only just got an order from the same pharmacy with an NHS prescription. It was for Evorel conti patches. There is a limit of 3 boxes of 8 so a 12 week supply.
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Hello everyone, my GP has just prescribed a replacement for my Estradot 75mg which I have been having for some time now and suits me really well but is out of stock as you probably all know. She has prescribed Elleste Solo 80mg patchers. Anyone any experience of this?
Thank you
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I think I'm being dense! Easy with meno brain! I read Hurdity's link as saying that if you are on Everol patches to change to Estradot patches. But I am on Estradot patches and can't get them. Am I missing something?! Has anyone seen an up to date list I.e. end of November as to what is available so I can have an informed discussion with my g.p. Which I think I'm going to have to have. I've tried loads of different types of HRT and methods and Estradot patches are the only ones I can tolerate.
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No not dense - it is all very confusing. I think the point is that Evorel has definitely been discontinued for a short while so that once the boxes left in the supply chain have run out there will be no more until whatever date they have given ( could be Feb 2020 or maybe later?). This is presumably why the detailed info was given by BMS on what to switch to from Evorel (in that link). Strictly speaking Estradot is still being manufactured so is available and therefore any shortages (as listed in the September update from BMS) maybe because of transfer to this brand by women from other brands (like Evorel) or being held up somewhere in the supply chain. The BMS info gives shrotage until second week of Dec - presumably they are increasing production as a result of increased demand? Do ask your pharmacy or wherever to ring round for you as you may well be able to get hold of it from somewhere? Confusing? Yes! :madeyes:
Hurdity x
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Thanks Hurdity for clarifying that. I emailed Novartis earlier and will show it to the pharmacist.
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No not dense - it is all very confusing. I think the point is that Evorel has definitely been discontinued for a short while so that once the boxes left in the supply chain have run out there will be no more until whatever date they have given ( could be Feb 2020 or maybe later?).
Hurdity x
My pharmacist found out for me yesterday that Evorel won't be back until June 2020 :'(
Taz x
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That's interesting Taz and also very disappointing - that is later than the info given by Janssen on the link I posted a little up thread (maybe over the page?) where they said:
"Theramex has been working with suppliers to shorten the manufacturing timelines, and accelerate supply to bring the product back to market earlier than originally planned. They currently anticipate the product range will be back in stock from February 2020 onwards. In the interim, we still expect product shortages, but are working with Theramex to make Evorel accessible to patients as quickly as possible."
https://www.janssen.com/uk/hormone-replacement-therapy-hrt-shortages-uk (as at 13th November).
However - that info says from Feb 2020 so maybe they are just trying to get people's hopes up and maybe it's only one of the products, and maybe realistically they think it will be later as your pharmacist has found? Who knows eh?! What are you using or planning to use or have you got enough to last....?
Hurdity x
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My pharmacist can't get Tostran now x
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Tesco pharmacy just phoned me having spoken to the supplier who spoke to manufacturers - confirmed no Evorel Sequi until June 2020
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Hi girls,
MIMS has added Sandrena gel and Estraderm MX (all presentations) to the shortages list, estimated to last until second week of December.
BeaR.
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https://members.tortoisemedia.com/2019/11/28/the-great-hrt-scandal/content.html?
Very interesting article on the reasons for the HRT shortage.
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Thanks dahliagirl very informative - but I must admit I glazed over at all the complexities and detail which I found a bit tedious ::). However the drugs shortages are widespread globally, and also in UK not just for hRT, and can probably be summed up through the headlines in that recent File on Four (FoF) programme - that there is a multiplicity of reasons which have combined to bring us to this point. A recent podcast by a gynae said that someone at the Dept of Health - had "taken their eyes off the ball" - as there are fora and committees etc which are supposed to monitor this. The FoF programme cited globalisation as a key factor = which is highlighted in the very detailed example given in this articlle but which applies across all sectors and drugs. The supply chain is longer and therefore more fragile with lots of raw material coming from China and there was a suggestion that we bring back manufacturing to Europe. What happens after Brexit is anyone's guess and anyone who cares about the future of NHS and the cost of drugs etc should not vote Tory full stop.
Also another factor highlighted by this programme (FoF) was the dominance of the market for certain drugs by one or two manufacturers and this is very obvious when it comes to HRT. There simply are no generics which is appalling. Even when the patents expire it seems that another company just takes it over as a "branded generic" eg with Testim ie produces the same product with same fillers - so not a generic as such.
I like to draw a parallel (in my head) with the food industry and supermarkets. They source and supply a huge range of products - which also include a lot of very specailised raw ingredients - but there is very rarely a significant shortage because the raew ingredients and many of the finihsed products are not exclusive to one comapny, leaving industry to respond to shortgaes and source their materials elsewhere. I realise that pharma is enormously more expensive with drugs costly to produce and market because of all the trials but i would have thought the same principles of supply and anticipating it do apply and are in operation long before a product might be needed?
ANyway that's my take on it - we need generics produced in the EU for the EU (and stay in the EU or have a agreement to continue to buy the drugs from EU) so we can import our own (EU) ingredients and produced by sevreal companies....like aspirin , and thyroxine etc.....
Probably far too simplistic a view from someone who knows very little about it all :)
Hurdity x
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https://members.tortoisemedia.com/2019/11/28/the-great-hrt-scandal/content.html?
Very interesting article on the reasons for the HRT shortage.
The author is a MM member, although her post has been deleted :-\
BeaR.
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Yes! I could not have written this article if I had not met BeaR on here, who is a genius researcher. She has proved absolutely invaluable. Thank you Menopause Matters.
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Yes! I could not have written this article if I had not met BeaR on here, who is a genius researcher. She has proved absolutely invaluable. Thank you Menopause Matters.
Hi Emma,
Thank you! Looking forward to working with you again! Keep posting!
BeaR.
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:thankyou: Emma
Here is Hurdity's File on Four episode link:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000bfhx
It is shocking that it has been allowed to get to this level. It is not only HRT either.
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I have just obtained half my prescription of 6 boxes of Estradot 100 from Lloyd's Pharmacy, with the rest due on Monday.
Boots still cannot supply Estradot. I showed them the BMS update of 26 November and they made a phone call (to whom I don't know) but still no joy.
That aside, I feel as though Santa has come early :), as I've been trying to get Estradot since August.
JP x
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That is such good news.😊 I got 8 boxes of 25mcg Estradot from Boots about 4 weeks ago - they thought this would be a solution by sticking 4 on at a time to make up the 100......said I needed another prescription though which I did present, but they advised after this that they could get no more and direct orders are no longer possible to Novartis, so I've given up.🙄
Even if I were able to get Evorel, they give me a terrible rash and wrinkle. Estradot really are the only ones I get along with.
I go really bonkers if I start/stop HRT with symptoms, so am havng to try the alternative I posted about in my other thread as at least it is consistently available - just not sure how the hell I'm going to feel on it though.
Enjoy, Joaniepat! I really am so glad for you. Good news is always welcone.😊
Thanks Lola50, and I do hope you get on OK with your other option.
I recently went through the business of using up combinations of odds and ends left over from earlier regimes (25 mcg patches, Sandrena, Oestrogel), so it will be lovely to get back to the real thing!
JP x
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Thanks ladies, I never thought of trying an online pharmacy
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I found Emma's link on twitter - thank you! It explains why a lot of us who want Estradot have 'been able to get' Estraderm (as if it's a luxury!)
Estraderm is awful. The 75mcg is a massive patch 5cm x 5cm and no wonder Estradot is preferred. I bet all this Estraderm was ordered at the same rate as Estradot but sitting on the shelves, unprescribed as Estradot was prescribed more and more.
Now that the NHS has put anyone off even selling HRT to the UK what we've got now is what was left on the shelf.
It's bad enough that in many areas Utrogestan is on the RED list of the CCG Formularies defining it as specialist prescription only. Then nationally they go and move all the HRT into the fixed price cupboard making it pointless supplying it.
I can't tell you how mad I am. It doesn't help that my husband gently stroked by thigh when I got into bed and the stupid Estraderm rolled right off my leg. I couldn't be bothered to get out of bed to put another one on and ended up going 12+hours without it and I've had a very frustrating powerless and tearful afternoon whilst negotiating the sale of a house (I'm an estate agent) and writing oodles of letters to all sorts of people. Thank goodness this is my own business!
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I found Emma's link on twitter - thank you! It explains why a lot of us who want Estradot have 'been able to get' Estraderm (as if it's a luxury!)
Estraderm is awful. The 75mcg is a massive patch 5cm x 5cm and no wonder Estradot is preferred. I bet all this Estraderm was ordered at the same rate as Estradot but sitting on the shelves, unprescribed as Estradot was prescribed more and more.
Now that the NHS has put anyone off even selling HRT to the UK what we've got now is what was left on the shelf.
It's bad enough that in many areas Utrogestan is on the RED list of the CCG Formularies defining it as specialist prescription only. Then nationally they go and move all the HRT into the fixed price cupboard making it pointless supplying it.
I can't tell you how mad I am. It doesn't help that my husband gently stroked by thigh when I got into bed and the stupid Estraderm rolled right off my leg. I couldn't be bothered to get out of bed to put another one on and ended up going 12+hours without it and I've had a very frustrating powerless and tearful afternoon whilst negotiating the sale of a house (I'm an estate agent) and writing oodles of letters to all sorts of people. Thank goodness this is my own business!
Hi I'm writing about the bit of your post that I have bolded.
I am addicted to valium and take 200mg utrogestan daily as it is cross tolerant to valium.
For this reason I cannot take a cheaper progestin as it will mess up my GABA receptors with disasterous results.
I read that red list drugs are hospital only prescriptions and it takes ages to get a hospital appointment in my area.
I am worried about running out of utrogestan, the menopause expert Elizabeth Vliet says it is like a strong benzo, so altering my dose or removing it will either have disasterous effects or it will kill me.
I cannot order online because no one takes conti progesterone 200mg daily, so the online doctor will not approve it.
I don't know if it is on the red list in my area. I tried to check online to see if it is on the red list in my area but I can't check. I think it needs a clinician to check.
The independent pharmacy don't sell utrogestan.
What am I to do?
I can only order so much at a time, and worried that when I come to order it next on 3 Dec I will find that it is on the red list.
What is the way forward?
I'm too young to die or suffer disasterous consequences by changing from micronised prog.
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Dandelion I have answered your last post on the thread about Utrogestan prescription as this thread is about the general shortages issue rather than what docs will prescribe - OK? Do not fret :)
Hurdity x
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***LATEST UPDATE FROM BRITISH MENOPAUSE SOCIETY ON HRT SHORTAGES ***as at 26th Nov
https://thebms.org.uk/2019/11/british-menopause-society-further-update-on-hrt-supply-shortages-26-november-2019/
Very comprehensive list it is too - so looks like the situation may well improve soon judging by the dates on the list - fingers crossed!
Hurdity x
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Hi girls,
Latest update from MIMS, 27th Nov. Tostran is back in stock. Yay!
https://infogram.com/drug-shortages-linked-1hmr6grnw37z4nl
BeaR.
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I found Emma's link on twitter - thank you! It explains why a lot of us who want Estradot have 'been able to get' Estraderm (as if it's a luxury!)
Estraderm is awful. The 75mcg is a massive patch 5cm x 5cm and no wonder Estradot is preferred. I bet all this Estraderm was ordered at the same rate as Estradot but sitting on the shelves, unprescribed as Estradot was prescribed more and more.
Now that the NHS has put anyone off even selling HRT to the UK what we've got now is what was left on the shelf.
It's bad enough that in many areas Utrogestan is on the RED list of the CCG Formularies defining it as specialist prescription only. Then nationally they go and move all the HRT into the fixed price cupboard making it pointless supplying it.
I can't tell you how mad I am. It doesn't help that my husband gently stroked by thigh when I got into bed and the stupid Estraderm rolled right off my leg. I couldn't be bothered to get out of bed to put another one on and ended up going 12+hours without it and I've had a very frustrating powerless and tearful afternoon whilst negotiating the sale of a house (I'm an estate agent) and writing oodles of letters to all sorts of people. Thank goodness this is my own business!
Hi I'm writing about the bit of your post that I have bolded.
I am addicted to valium and take 200mg utrogestan daily as it is cross tolerant to valium.
For this reason I cannot take a cheaper progestin as it will mess up my GABA receptors with disasterous results.
I read that red list drugs are hospital only prescriptions and it takes ages to get a hospital appointment in my area.
I am worried about running out of utrogestan, the menopause expert Elizabeth Vliet says it is like a strong benzo, so altering my dose or removing it will either have disasterous effects or it will kill me.
I cannot order online because no one takes conti progesterone 200mg daily, so the online doctor will not approve it.
I don't know if it is on the red list in my area. I tried to check online to see if it is on the red list in my area but I can't check. I think it needs a clinician to check.
The independent pharmacy don't sell utrogestan.
What am I to do?
I can only order so much at a time, and worried that when I come to order it next on 3 Dec I will find that it is on the red list.
What is the way forward?
I'm too young to die or suffer disasterous consequences by changing from micronised prog.
Hi Dandelion,
Even in Scotland where the NHS operates under stringent economic policies you can get Utrogestan if needs be.
See this thread https://www.menopausematters.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,45831.0.html
BeaR.
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I've done a separate post about the BMS update too so it doesn't get lost as all the info on that update is in one place :)
Hurdity x
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Dandelion I have answered your last post on the thread about Utrogestan prescription as this thread is about the general shortages issue rather than what docs will prescribe - OK? Do not fret :)
Hurdity x
Hi Hurdity thanks for your reply.
Do you mean the post to me on this page? https://www.menopausematters.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,45779.msg743228.html#msg743228
I hope I don't sound contradictory to you, I'm just confused, I read your post on the thread about utrogestan prescription and you say it can be prescribed as long as they can justify it, but the doctors have not put on my notes about how my valium addicction relates to the progesterone and cross tolerance.
As any GP in my large surgery signs the online prescription requests, as I order online I am worried that they will just refuse it, as they will not see it as justified.
I'm panicking because on the 9th October on this thread https://www.menopausematters.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,44773.msg733285/topicseen.html#msg733285 Reply #291 Oldsheep said there's been a total supply shutdown of both of her HRT prescriptions. Evorel 50 patches and Utrogestan 100.
Your reply Reply #298 to oldsheep said it sounds very scary and if utrogestan starts to become in short supply, we're doomed.
So, I'm worried that I won't get my utro when I request it online on 3rd December, I am too scared even to ring my local pharmacist, in case they say it can't be issued.
Sorry to keep panicking, it really is a matter of life and death for me, due to the severe withdrawal effects on the GABA and the GP's don't understand it. As far as I know, there isn't anything on my notes about utrogestan and valium addiction to justify it.
My notes just say about the bleeding episodes, and they can prescribe an alterative progestin which would be disasterous.
Sorry to fret.
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Dandelion, if it's a matter of life or death, you could try and source it elsewhere.
There are no HRT supply problems in Spain so if either you or someone you know is in Spain, you could ask them to buy Utrogestan for you, it is not very expensive and it would give you some much needed peace of mind.
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Dandelion, if it's a matter of life or death, you could try and source it elsewhere.
There are no HRT supply problems in Spain so if either you or someone you know is in Spain, you could ask them to buy Utrogestan for you, it is not very expensive and it would give you some much needed peace of mind.
Hi Mary thanks for your reply.
I don't know anyone who is going to Spain or abroad.
I cannot get it online as I am on conti and no online doctor would prescribe the 200mg daily utrogestan that I need.
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@Dandelion Utrogestan has been on the red list i many CCGs or ages. It can be prescribed by GPs but mine wouldn't/couldn't due to this red warning on her screen and she's a rule taker!
It is on the NICE guidelines for menopause treatment and if you've been prescribed it before, a repeat prescription should be fine.
I had a bit of a battle to get Utrogestan but it turns out I can't tolerate it at all anyway and I now have a Jaydess IUS which takes away all the worry about supply issues on that side as it's in me now and that's that.
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@Dandelion Utrogestan has been on the red list i many CCGs or ages. It can be prescribed by GPs but mine wouldn't/couldn't due to this red warning on her screen and she's a rule taker!
It is on the NICE guidelines for menopause treatment and if you've been prescribed it before, a repeat prescription should be fine.
I had a bit of a battle to get Utrogestan but it turns out I can't tolerate it at all anyway and I now have a Jaydess IUS which takes away all the worry about supply issues on that side as it's in me now and that's that.
Thanks for the reassurance, glad you are feeling better.
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Hi there - this post is about supply issues - the main subject of this thread.....
I just provided some info on another thread about ESTRADOT - but will repeat the essence of it here:
My (prescribing) pharmacist ( who works in my local GP practice dispensary) phoned just now to let me know that there were still no Estradot available despite info to the contrary on the latest BMS update. He phoned Novartis this morning and there are still very few Estradot patches being supplied into the marketplace.
Apparently a few were released last week (he said 100s but then said 25s??) but there are none at the moment. he couldn't say when they would be back on track. He said Novartis supply to Alliance which is owned by Boots and he looked online (at Alliance) after discussing with Novartis (while on the phone to me) and they are also showing red ie none.....
Presumably there are still some ( a few boxes?) somewhere in the supply chain but not consistently.....
There seems to be a discrepancy in what we (and BMS) are being told and what pharmacists on the ground are finding - even direct from the manufacturers. It is puzzling to say the least.
The pharmacists also said due to lack of continuous combined patches that patients were being returned to oral therapy - I didn't get into a long discussion about patches/gel with separate prog!
ESTRADERM - as indicated in the BMS info - is now in short supply - not surprisingly.
I have been prescribed another one that is probably rarely used - ELLESTE SOLO MX 80 mcg - quite a bit higher than I need so what a waste, but didn't want to return to 50 mcg. This is the ONLY other twice weekly patch available :(. He prescribed me two months instead of the usual 1 month when there are shortages - but I should get 3 months worth....
Hope this information is helpful and also that others manage to get hold of the few Estradot patches that are floating around. I am mystified as to why it is still not available - I mean is the factory lying idle or are they just supplying elsewhere?
Hurdity x
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My sister lives in Scotland and they have told her she can only have oral hrt (apologies if this has already been covered) just now. She's not happy about it, so has bought her usual patches in Spain to get around it x
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BUMP x
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Hi girls,
Latest AAH update (16th Dec) https://www.aah.co.uk/resource/blob/30378/021d26f1fd97d7057dc8e5ae7bbe4be8/aah-out-of-stock-pharmacy-and-dispensing-doctors-data.pdf
Estradot 25 and 100µg are in stock at AAH.
This is the latest Alliance update (4th Nov) I could find. Only Estradot 50µg had limited supply.
http://www.northstaffordshirejointformulary.nhs.uk/docs/DDS/Alliance%20Healthcare%20Out%20of%20stock%204.11.19.pdf?UNLID=105893532019121803746
BeaR.
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Thanks BeaR. x
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Supplier to my pharmacy is Alliance - and I reported on my pharmacist's attempts with them and Estradot manufacturers a couple of weeks ago and I don't hold out much hope anyway in my area - as there have been supply problems with Estradot for a number of years - maybe 4 or more? Nothing to do with current shortages - just an Estradot issue. Unfortunately I now have 2 or 3 months of other patches until we can try again!
Hurdity x
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Hi girls, Merry Christmas
Latest AAH update (23rd Dec) https://www.aah.co.uk/resource/blob/30378/17942161c6d755048dc3497ad8c795b8/aah-out-of-stock-pharmacy-and-dispensing-doctors-data.pdf
Estradot 'Weekly deliveries into AAH but demand is higher meaning shortage'.
Femseven 50, Sequi and Conti 'Expect mid to late 2020' :o
Elleste Duet Conti 'Expected wc 13/01/2020' Good news.
BeaR.
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Hi girls, Happy New Year :)
Latest AAH update (31st Dec) https://www.aah.co.uk/resource/blob/30378/256b06c298c6e6cadecbc0e9f04dc0d6/aah-out-of-stock-pharmacy-and-dispensing-doctors-data.pdf
Estradot 'Shortages in the market of generic alternatives are increasing the demands'. I suppose they are referring to the US market, as far as I know there are no generic alternatives in the UK, meaning this is a global issue.
FemSeven 'expect mid to late 2020'. No mention of FemSeven Sequi or Conti. :o
BeaR.
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Hi again girls,
There is a November 2019 January 2020 medicines shortages list from Irish Pharmacy Union stating that Vagifem is 'on allocation' :o (not allowed to post a link)
'What does “on allocation†mean?
A product on allocation is one that is distributed in a manner that limits distribution of scarce supplies until a shortage is resolved. Allocation plans may include strategies to control the quantity and frequency of product releases, placing limitations on quantities sold or limiting release to emergency-only use to conserve product for patients with life-threatening conditions for which there is no alternative therapy.'
Let's hope it doesn't escalate.
BeaR.
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Hi everyone,
Latest Theramex update on Evorel https://www.theramex.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Evorel-UK-Stock-Update-from-Theramex-Stock-Update-21JAN20.pdf
BeaR.
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Thanks bear. Taz told everyone the good news about this yesterday!
Hurdity x
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Thanks BeaR :) - I looked at Theramex site this morning & only managed to turn up the previous update!
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Good news. My dr said yesterday he envisaged ongoing issues when the supply comes back due to people stockpiling. Lets hope that they have increased production sufficently to account for this. Fingers crossed everyone!
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Thanks BeaR, I only have two of my everol 100mg left and today Dr's have prescribed me Elleste 80mg but only a months supply!
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But no news on FemSeven. 😟
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I think FemSeven is a separate issue - it is gone until they have worked out how to make it stick - although why they ceased production without making enough to cover the gap?????? or reformulated while still producing - Who knows. :-\
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I hardly had any problems with them sticking and they've been out of stock a lot longer than Everol patches. Theramex estimate the end of this year for restocking. Nothing I have had since has suited me. Utrogestan plus FemSeven 50 was a disaster. I have been on Femoston Conti which was my least worst option, mostly controlling the hot flushes but now I've started bleeding again, so it's not holding....
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To get the same hormones, Mirena + oestrogen patches would be the best thing, but that does mean having and IUCD inserted with is not everyone's cup of tea.
I have just started Femoston Conti. Fingers crossed about the bleeding. It was in stock at the Chemists too <phew>
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Hi girls,
I suspect FemSeven Conti and Sequi adhesive issue is a lame excuse because FemSeven Mono is available and sticking... The problem is that Theramex is a new company and when they acquired the rights to sell Teva's women's health portfolio, Teva had already decided to stop producing FemSeven.
I have emailed Janssen and Novartis in other countries and both have replied that the shortages are due to problems obtaining the active pharmaceutical ingredient (norethisterone and levonorgestrel, and more recently, estradiol). The main sellers are China and India and FDA inspections of their manufacturing plants have halted or delayed production.
The FDA has also red-flagged a US based hormone patch manufacturer, Noven (subsidiary of Japanese Hisamitsu) in 2016. It took them 3 years to sort out the issues and they will probably resume normal production this year. Noven is responsible for manufacturing Estradot in many countries (I have checked the leaflets).
Estradot marketed in the UK is apparently manufactured by Novartis in Germany, but Noven's issues explain why Novartis is blaming 'shortages in the market of generic alternatives are increasing the demands of Estradot that Novartis are unable to fulfil'.
Anyway, 2020 sounds promising, one way or another. Let's hope for the best (and prepare for the worst).
BeaR.
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Hi dahliagirl....I was going to have the Mirena but I have a fibroid which would have made insertion difficult. I do at least find that Femoston Conti controls the hot flushes well enough and is not out of supply as far as I can tell....well, I haven't haven't had any trouble getting the prescription filled. But the balance doesn't seem right hence the breakthrough bleeding. I had all the tests, scans etc not that long ago but have an appointment with my Meno specialist coming up so will discuss then.
Theramex have been very hard to make contact with over FemSeven Conti. I too don't believe the only reason was the adhesive but we can only wait and hope that the prediction of it being back in supply by Q4 2020 is accurate. I'm not holding my breath!
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I hope the breakthrough bleeding settles. The fibroid may not be helping. Good luck with the meno specialist.
I used to have breakthrough bleeding problems when I first started on the contraceptive pill many years ago and I have never worked out the whys and wherefores of how it happened - I just got prescribed a bog standard pill by a rubbish GP and it was never a problem again with any other pills I took ??? Since then, I have read that it can be the wrong sort of progestogen, not enough progestogen, too much, or even not enough oestrogen. :(
I was going to ask for oestrogel + uterogestan but since I also had the hurdle of having had problems with the nurse that wants me off hrt I just asked to change from the femoston 2/10 to the conti 1/5 as I know it is likely to work for so I wouldn't have to keep trying to get appointments with the Right Doctor.
I have read that breakthrough bleeding is not unusual to start with though.
Just to add, I have never had any problem getting femoston 2/10 - it seems less popular.
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Dear BeaR,
Many thanks for the update again, really useful update as usual.
Rhiner
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Dear BeaR,
Many thanks for the update again, really useful update as usual.
Rhiner
You're welcome, Rhiner!
BeaR.
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I bought evorel conti online, but my gp has said not to use them? They look legitimate, different box but with the same print on the patch. Bought from treated.com. What would you do?
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If you didn't buy them from a legitimate pharmacy then I wouldn't although unlike pills they might be difficult to fake. No-one should be buying any sort of medication online except through a pharmacy and with an NHS prescription or possibly having had a consultation with the pharmacist at the company?
Hurdity x
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I bought evorel conti online, but my gp has said not to use them? They look legitimate, different box but with the same print on the patch. Bought from treated.com. What would you do?
As Hurdity said, did you get them using an NHS prescription? What colour is the box? Does the label say Evorel conti or something else? I have received 2 different designs of box (including bright pink) in the past few months and a slightly different name but the product was the same.
I have just looked at the Treated.com web site and the packaging looks exactly the same as I got from a high st pharmacy here before the shortages started.
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Thanks for the replies. The box is bright pink. I didn't use a prescription as I had to leave it at the chemist after only receiving part of my order last time and them not getting any more. However, it has been signed off by a chemist.
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I too over last 12months have had different colour boxes using Evorel Conti, but the patches all had same content.
I have not be able to fill my last script, have tried everywhere for miles during last 5 weeks, I did see the Independent Pharmacy had stock so emailed them, and was told to post my script to them, so did so using recorded delivery, after 4 days script was returned stating out of stock, plus had email saying the same, checked their online web site and that also said out of stock.. but yesterday (2 days later) stock was back in, so don't know if I should send script off again to them.
I did read a couple of members using this Pharmacy did receive their HRT without problem, if you are one of them, could you tell me if you had to join the Pharmacy for them to have all future scripts sent to them from your Surgery, I don't really want to do this, as hopefully when they are back in production, which should be in 3weeks my local Pharmacy is only 5 mins walk from home :-\ x
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I too over last 12months have had different colour boxes using Evorel Conti, but the patches all had same content.
I have not be able to fill my last script, have tried everywhere for miles during last 5 weeks, I did see the Independent Pharmacy had stock so emailed them, and was told to post my script to them, so did so using recorded delivery, after 4 days script was returned stating out of stock, plus had email saying the same, checked their online web site and that also said out of stock.. but yesterday (2 days later) stock was back in, so don't know if I should send script off again to them.
I did read a couple of members using this Pharmacy did receive their HRT without problem, if you are one of them, could you tell me if you had to join the Pharmacy for them to have all future scripts sent to them from your Surgery, I don't really want to do this, as hopefully when they are back in production, which should be in 3weeks my local Pharmacy is only 5 mins walk from home :-\ x
I have successfully ordered twice from the Independent Pharmacy. I didn't ask for future prescriptions to be sent to them directly. I just asked my GP practice to keep it for me to collect from them instead of electronically sending it to Boots which can't supply. I then posted it myself. I wasn't required to 'join' the online pharmacy.
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Thanks Kate :-* if they still show as 'In Stock' tomorrow I am going to send my script off again...and hope..xxx
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Latest update from BMS here:
https://thebms.org.uk/2020/01/british-menopause-society-further-update-on-hrt-supply-shortages-27th-january-2020/
I'll also post on a new thread....
Hurdity x
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Many thanks Hurdity for you post, I am hoping Pharmacies will have Evorel Conti in stock 'on' Feb 21st as it just 2 days before my long stay hols :'(
I looked at Independent Pharmacy website at 8.30am yesterday patches in stock, checked again at 9am before going to Post Office and showed Out of Stock!!
Checked again today from 9-10am again in stock but 14mins later Out of Stock :-\ so still holding on to my prescription :'( :'( don't know how their website changes so quickly >:( x
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Many thanks Hurdity for you post, I am hoping Pharmacies will have Evorel Conti in stock 'on' Feb 21st as it just 2 days before my long stay hols :'(
I looked at Independent Pharmacy website at 8.30am yesterday patches in stock, checked again at 9am before going to Post Office and showed Out of Stock!!
Checked again today from 9-10am again in stock but 14mins later Out of Stock :-\ so still holding on to my prescription :'( :'( don't know how their website changes so quickly >:( x
Perhaps their incoming stock is very limited and, as soon as it appears, someone orders it. Perhaps someone who is paying the full price and not posting an NHS prescription?
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Hi girls,
Latest update from AAH https://www.aah.co.uk/resource/blob/30378/f4a1b73da18e773d1a81c82f84ecc6f7/aah-out-of-stock-pharmacy-and-dispensing-doctors-data.pdf
BeaR.
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Has anyone used Progynova 50 patches? How big are these & do they stick well?? I notice they're an alternative for Estradot 50 which my chemist is struggling to try & get for me before my last packet of Estradot runs out. I need to find a suitable alternative & after reading on here about the size of the alternative I was offered (Estraderm) I'd rather not!! My skin easily irritates & Estradot is the only one I've had no bother with. So any clues on the size of Progynova??
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I've done some googling & found the Progynova patch is a once a week one whereas Estradot is twice a week. Anyone any experience with Progynova patches? I'm really stuck as to what alternative I can use if the chemist cannot get hold of Estradot :-
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Hi Goosieloosie,
Progynova TS 50mcg size is 12.5 cm2 and Estradot 50mcg is 5 cm2.
https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/1617/pil
https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/7226/smpc
BeaR.
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Hi Goosieloosie
The main difference with Progynova is that it's a once a week patch change like Femseven so I asked my doc to prescribe any twice weekly patch as I don't want to keep one on for a week. Most of the patches apart from Estradot are on the larger side.
Just to add to bear's info - I researched all these a while ago and have the info in a doc so in terms of actual dimensions in order of (approx) size:
Estradot - 2.24 x 2.24 cm (square)
Progynova 3.5 cm
Elleste solo (40 mcg) 3.77 cm
Femseven 3.87 cm
Evorel 4 cm
Estraderm ( the giant!) 4.6 cm
Although for example Estraderm is only twice the linear dimensions of Estradot is really does seem huge in comparison (as it's 4 times the area!)
I have got used to Elleste Solo MX (which I cut down from 80 to around 60) now though....
Hurdity x
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Thank you Hurdity, that's actually really helpful to know the sizes! I've just rang my chemist this morning & they've been told by their supplier that Estradot is NOT expected in stock anytime soon so I really now need to make a decision about which alternative to go for. I will have to ring my GP & ask them to prescribe another, do you think they would give me Elleste solo 80 & cut it down to 40? They may think this is wasteful & refuse :-\ I'm worried that Elleste 40 will not be enough as I've been using Estradot 50 for 4 yrs, we have a busy year coming up with various occasions & it's not the right time for me to begin experimenting, I'm nice & settled on the Estradot 50 :'( Any advice appreciated
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Sorry Goosieloosie I missed this. If you were going to try 40 mcg and they are available you could try these , or maybe you mean 80 cut down to 50 ? You can always keep the pieces as they are easy to cut and peel off...I am saving all my 20 mcg bits! Actually I think I get more oestrogen from the Elleste than I did from estradot although I prefer the tiny ones. Maybe the same for you? Hope you manage to sort it!
Hurdity x
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Sorry Goosieloosie I missed this. If you were going to try 40 mcg and they are available you could try these , or maybe you mean 80 cut down to 50 ? You can always keep the pieces as they are easy to cut and peel off...I am saving all my 20 mcg bits! Actually I think I get more oestrogen from the Elleste than I did from estradot although I prefer the tiny ones. Maybe the same for you? Hope you manage to sort it!
Hurdity x
Hello there Hurdity, I actually meant to cut down the 80 to 50 if my Dr would prescribe this size! I was worried she might not agree thinking it's a waste of money. However, since reading on here a few days ago that Evorel 50 was back in stock last Friday 14th I got straight onto my chemist to see if they could get hold of them, when they said they could I jumped straight on the phone to my GP & got the prescription changed to Evorel 50 for 3 month's! So far the chemist has only one box but they said they were expecting more deliveries today, so let's cross fingers ;). When I first began my HRT journey 4 & half years ago I began with Evorel conti so I'm guessing size wise they'll be very similar. Let's hope this shortage for all patches comes to an end very soon, it's added stress that we just don't need. Even ringing back & forth to chemists & dr's surgery I have found stressful & like I'm being a nuisance :(
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I managed to get 6 months supply of Evorel Sequi from Oxford Pharmacies back in October after struggling to get my prescription locally. Just sent my script off and they sent the patches back in 2 days. Thing is, by then I'd been without for a week and decided to see if I could stay off. So far so good, apart from the VA.
I feel a bit guilty that I have 6 months supply that I don't need when others are struggling to get hold of them. Would I be able to return them to a pharmacy locally? If so would they be able to reissue them to someone who needs them? Or would they just destroy them?
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Hi Flossie Fiddler
Like you say, they shouldn't be issuing 6 months at a time anyway with all the shortages but too late now! Unfortunately you won't be able to return them as I think they are destroyed. That's what my local pharmacy says. Once they leave the pharmacy that's it, they can't be reissued even if unopened.
I would hang onto them as you may decide to restart. Many of us don't experience a return of symptoms for some weeks after stopping (or do you mean you stopped in October?). Make sure you take something (local oestrogen) for the VA - and if this is severe you may need to continue with the systemic patches too?
Hurdity x
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Hi, is anyone managing to get evorel oestrogen patches okay as thought they were due back in stock Feb 2020, but now being told still not in stock x
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I got hold of 3 months worth of Estraderm mx50 yesterday after ringing around. They reserved them for me prior to me getting my prescription. Yes they?re on the big side but tbh I find I'm better sticking them onto my leg (as I've always been used to with the Evorel) as opposed to the Estradot and the stomach. Anyway yeh bit disappointed too that I've not heard people getting the new Evorel mono (as it now names itself) as they were released supposedly on the 15th......but hey ho at least I got my 3 months worth for 9 quid as opposed to 1 months worth!
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well today I managed to get a months worth of evorel conti patches and have a slip for the other 2 months which the chemist have said they should be able to get
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Hi, is anyone managing to get evorel oestrogen patches okay as thought they were due back in stock Feb 2020, but now being told still not in stock x
Two weeks ago I was able to get 3 month's supply from the chemist in Asda just after they were known to be back in stock on Feb 14th but due to a mix up with my GP usually prescribing me 6 month's I've actually ended up with 9 months supply on two different prescriptions (so had to pay ?18). I actually only found out that there was a 6 month prescription waiting for me ready to collect at the chemist when I telephoned my Dr about something else!! It's worked in my favour as I now have a 9 months supply of Evorel 50 (even though my usual prescription before the shortage was for Estradot) So obviously no supply issues with Evorel where I live in the North East.
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Goosieloosie
I'm in the north east and haven't been able to get any patches. I've have had to resort to getting elleste 80 instead of Evorel 75 from an online pharmacy. Every chemist I've been to just shakes their head and says they?re awaiting further updates.
Nic x
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Goosieloosie
I'm in the north east and haven't been able to get any patches. I've have had to resort to getting elleste 80 instead of Evorel 75 from an online pharmacy. Every chemist I've been to just shakes their head and says they?re awaiting further updates.
Nic x
Oh my goodness, I didn't have any trouble getting hold of Evorel once it was back in stock with the supplier on February 14th. I really don't understand it. Unless by now they've exhausted all stock :-\. Asda (the chemist I used) use Alliance as their wholesalers if that helps? Good luck
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Boots Pharmacy filled my prescription on Feb 20th, prior to that I did get my 10week old script filled by online pharmacy on my second request..i am on Evorel Conti 50 and live in West Mids..xx
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Hi Flossie Fiddler
Like you say, they shouldn't be issuing 6 months at a time anyway with all the shortages but too late now! Unfortunately you won't be able to return them as I think they are destroyed. That's what my local pharmacy says. Once they leave the pharmacy that's it, they can't be reissued even if unopened.
I would hang onto them as you may decide to restart. Many of us don't experience a return of symptoms for some weeks after stopping (or do you mean you stopped in October?). Make sure you take something (local oestrogen) for the VA - and if this is severe you may need to continue with the systemic patches too?
Hurdity x
Hi Hurdity,
Yes, been off the HRT since October. Hanging on to the patches just in case. I'm now on Vagifem, just doing the 2 week loading dose and so far so good, with YES VM internally and YES OB externally. Hopefully I caught the VA before it got too severe.
Flossie
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Has anyone had any luck fulfilling prescription for Evorel Conti? I've tried online and local pharmacies but all are reporting out of stock, and are not able to tell me when they will have stock.
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Hi Lizzie06
Like you I am trying to get the evorel conti patches. I thought they were supposed to be back in stock on the 20 February. I've been looking at the online pharmacies. I've ordered from the Independent pharmacy before. I know they are out of stock again.
Vicky xx
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I managed to get evorel conti from my local pharmacy, Boots (Shropshire) two weeks ago. The dr advised that they were available. Hope you manage to get some.
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I have enough to last me 2 months but I asked the consultant about it today. She thought I would be able to get more b4 I run out but wasn't sure. I looked up Independent Pharmacy this morning but they were still out of stock. 🙁
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Hi all
I phoned my pharmacist this morning. He said he still can't get the evorel conti patches. Oh well hope we get them soon. Xx
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Boots still out of stock
Here is a pdf from the people supplying janssen with the latest updates
https://www.theramex.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Evorel-Updated-Stock-Feb2020-UK.pdf
I'm not sure though, I do have one months supply plus a box which expired in Dec 19
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Boots still out of stock
Here is a pdf from the people supplying janssen with the latest updates
https://www.theramex.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Evorel-Updated-Stock-Feb2020-UK.pdf
I'm not sure though, I do have one months supply plus a box which expired in Dec 19
Hi Dandelion,
Janssen has sold all range of patches (Evorel, Evra, Evopad, Systen) to Theramex, which is their Marketing Authorisation Holder in the UK now.
All Evorel (Mono, Conti and Sequi) are sold through wholesaler Alliance, so they are the ones who can probably tell us what's going on regarding stocks.
BeaR.
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Boots still out of stock
Here is a pdf from the people supplying janssen with the latest updates
https://www.theramex.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Evorel-Updated-Stock-Feb2020-UK.pdf
I'm not sure though, I do have one months supply plus a box which expired in Dec 19
Hi Dandelion,
Janssen has sold all range of patches (Evorel, Evra, Evopad, Systen) to Theramex, which is their Marketing Authorisation Holder in the UK now.
All Evorel (Mono, Conti and Sequi) are sold through wholesaler Alliance, so they are the ones who can probably tell us what's going on regarding stocks.
BeaR.
Hi BeaR
Thanks, I found alliance's website, hope they will speak to members of the public.
Thanks
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Availability of Menopausal Hormone Therapy Products Worldwide Link to info :
https://thebms.org.uk/2020/02/availability-of-menopausal-hormone-therapy-products-worldwide/
PMX
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Hi I got this from Alliance Health, I am now struggling without the sequi patches but it looks like it will be May before they are back. With everything else going on, waiting till May seems impossible. :(
https://www.theramex.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Evorel-Stock-Update-2020-March-UK.pdf
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Hi I got this from Alliance Health, I am now struggling without the sequi patches but it looks like it will be May before they are back. With everything else going on, waiting till May seems impossible. :(
https://www.theramex.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Evorel-Stock-Update-2020-March-UK.pdf
Thanks for update
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Hi I got this from Alliance Health, I am now struggling without the sequi patches but it looks like it will be May before they are back. With everything else going on, waiting till May seems impossible. :(
https://www.theramex.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Evorel-Stock-Update-2020-March-UK.pdf
If you can get Evorel conti and Evorel 50 which are supposed to be available - then get your doc to prescribe equal nos of each as this is the same as evorel sequi (which is two weeks of each)
Hurdity x
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Oh thank you Hurdity, I have also been struggling trying to understand what the equivalent might be, I'll put a note into the doctors to see if I can change the prescription, not sure they will have time to look at it though! Fingers crossed, thanks again. Stay safe x
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Hi. I got two months supply of evorel conti this week from my pharmacist
First time in months. Pleased it is back in stock
Vicky xx