Shortages hit supply of two hormone replacement therapy patch brands

Shortages have affected two brands of hormone replacement therapy patches, the Department of Health announced on October 14, 2026. The BBC and BBC Health both reported that the impacted products include Estradot transdermal patches and FemSeven Conti patches. [1][2]

Dr Ursula Mason, chair of the Royal College of General Practitioners Northern Ireland, told the BBC that finding a replacement product can cause real anxiety for patients. She noted that this is particularly true for hormone replacement therapy when a woman has identified a preparation that works effectively for her. [1]

According to the BBC Health report, current protocols ensure that any substituted medication contains the exact same active ingredient at the same dose. Patients are advised to contact their general practitioner if a new formulation fails to manage their symptoms or causes side effects. [1]