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We have been notified that the shortages of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) patches containing estradiol will continue throughout 2026.
To help manage the ongoing shortages, we have extended the current Serious Scarcity Substitution Instrument (SSSI) for these products to 28 February 2027. The instrument allows pharmacists to dispense an alternative brand or strength of HRT patches, if appropriate, without a new prescription.
For detailed information about the shortage, the SSSI and important factors when considering a substitution, visit About the shortage of transdermal HRT patches.
For more information about SSSIs, see Substituting scarce medicines and Serious Scarcity Substitution Instruments (SSSIs).