Menopause Matters Forum

Menopause Discussion => All things menopause => Topic started by: Dandelion on June 04, 2023, 05:02:32 PM

Title: Is there still a shortage of utrogestan
Post by: Dandelion on June 04, 2023, 05:02:32 PM
Hi, boots are normally pretty quick at texting a day or two, after I put in my online request, was just wondering if there are any of these silly shortages still going on for utrogestan?
I don't understand the demand thing, make more of them, make more money.
Title: Re: Is there still a shortage of utrogestan
Post by: Dotty on June 04, 2023, 05:03:48 PM
Yes there are still problems with Utrogestan. A shortage protocol has been put on utrogestan meaning that you can only get two months supply at a time.

https://www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/sites/default/files/2023-05/Endorsement%20guidance%20SSP056%20Utrogestan%20restriction%2024052023.pdf
Title: Re: Is there still a shortage of utrogestan
Post by: Bungo on June 05, 2023, 07:54:03 AM
Any indications of when the shortage will be over and the 2month max allowed will be relaxed?
Title: Re: Is there still a shortage of utrogestan
Post by: lolly1815 on June 05, 2023, 08:32:19 PM
I am in Scotland and today went in with my first prescription but was only allowed 2 months (of a 3 month prescription) and was told Boots will contact me when I can have the remaining month glad I’ve seen this as did wonder if I’d have problems going forward!
Title: Re: Is there still a shortage of utrogestan
Post by: Dotty on June 06, 2023, 06:28:09 AM
Hi Bungo it’s expected to lift on Aug 18th.
Title: Re: Is there still a shortage of utrogestan
Post by: KatyB on June 24, 2023, 08:51:36 AM
Found this interesting summary of the shortage protocol and later part covers alternatives to utrogestan for those of us who can't get hold of it at all...it is behind a 'register for cookies' link, apologies.
https://www.balance-menopause.com/menopause-library/utrogestan-supply-restrictions-what-you-need-to-know/#:~:text=The%20supply%20of%20HRT%20medication,Utrogestan%20100mg%20capsules%20per%20prescription.
'The SSP provisionally ends on 18 August, and the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) said Utrogestan is expected to be in intermittent supply until late 2023.DHSC added deliveries are frequently being made by the manufacturer, Besins, but they have struggled to meet rising demand. Besins is taking steps to increase supply, but in the meantime the SSP will support access to available stock.'

Title: Re: Is there still a shortage of utrogestan
Post by: Mary G on June 24, 2023, 02:41:59 PM
That's very strange because there is no shortage of Utrogestan in Spain - I regularly buy and send it to a friend in the UK.  I also buy and send Progeffik (which is similar) to a friend.

If you are struggling to get hold of it and you (or someone you know) happen to be travelling to Spain, you can bring your prescription with you and get it filled here.
Title: Re: Is there still a shortage of utrogestan
Post by: meno-mel on June 25, 2023, 10:30:07 AM
That's very strange because there is no shortage of Utrogestan in Spain - I regularly buy and send it to a friend in the UK.  I also buy and send Progeffik (which is similar) to a friend.

If you are struggling to get hold of it and you (or someone you know) happen to be travelling to Spain, you can bring your prescription with you and get it filled here.
The SSPs were introduced as part of the Brexit "planning" (what an ironic phrase!), that's why only the UK is affected.
Title: Re: Is there still a shortage of utrogestan
Post by: Mary G on June 25, 2023, 02:16:24 PM
That's very strange because there is no shortage of Utrogestan in Spain - I regularly buy and send it to a friend in the UK.  I also buy and send Progeffik (which is similar) to a friend.

If you are struggling to get hold of it and you (or someone you know) happen to be travelling to Spain, you can bring your prescription with you and get it filled here.
The SSPs were introduced as part of the Brexit "planning" (what an ironic phrase!), that's why only the UK is affected.

Gawd!  I did wonder if it was something to do with your Brexity supply chain problems.

At least people now know it's possible to source medication elsewhere, either personally or via a friend.