Many women say they’re having trouble getting estrogen patches

CHARLOTTE — Some women are having trouble finding estrogen patches used to manage menopause symptoms as rising demand strains supply.

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Donna Moss says she’s been relying on estrogen patches for more than 30 years and went for a refill.

“When I called it in, they’re like, ‘We are so sorry to tell you it is not available. You’re not going to probably find it anywhere.’ And I said, ‘Oh no.’ I basically had a meltdown (laugh). And I’m like, ‘OK. This is not OK. What can we do about it?’” she told Action 9 attorney Jason Stoogenke.

These meds help manage menopause symptoms -- including hot flashes and mood swings -- and help prevent bone and cardiovascular problems.

Earlier studies suggested they could increase the chance of cancer and other health issues. So, companies included certain warnings. Then, newer studies didn’t find as close a connection. So, those warnings went away, and analysts say prescriptions for estrogen patches climbed. Some reports say more than 160% over the past two years. And, according to multiple sources, demand is outpacing supply.

For example, the American Society of Health System Pharmacists says they’ve seen a “shortage of certain formulations and doses” since January.

That said, the FDA hasn’t confirmed an actual shortage. But they say they’re “actively working with all six manufacturers of [the] patches to increase supply amid growing demand.”

A few weeks later, the Democratic Women’s Caucus in Congress sent a letter to federal health officials demanding action.

Moss says she ran out of the patches for the first time. She says she eventually found them at another pharmacy, but those days in between were rough.

“You know when that estrogen has been altered. Your body starts rebelling,” she said. “It’s just a very, it’s a drastic change.”

Stoogenke says if you’re having trouble finding the patch:

• Tell the FDA.
• Ask your doctor about other brands.
• Try another pharmacy as Donna Moss did.
• Even if you do, keep checking back with your usual drugstore.
• Don’t stop or change your medicine without talking with your doctor.

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