The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) call for action over shortages of hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
pharmafile | August 27, 2019 | News story | Manufacturing and Production | HRT, UK, healthcare, pharma, shortages
The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) have called for action from government and pharmaceutical companies to adress ongoing shortages of hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
Hundreds of thousands of British women use HRT while going through the menopause. However due to shortages, many have suffered ill effects. The shortages are also affecting some transgender women who take HRT.
The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) have thus called for an urgent meeting as it suggested the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) make a stronger intervention.
Professor Lesley Regan, president of the RCOG, commented: “What we have got to do is try and work together as professionals with the Department of Health and get these companies to be accountable – give us an explanation. Firstly, of what the problem is, and most importantly of the timelines before they will be resolved.”
A Janssen spokesperson commented: “So far this year, demand for Evorel products 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, due to challenges in maintaining our supply to meet this increased demand. We are working on a return to full supply by mid-2020.”
A spokesperson for the DHSC said: “Our priority is to ensure patients continue to access safe and effective medicines. We are aware of ongoing supply issues with some HRT preparations due to manufacturing delays.
“Supplies of alternative HRT products are available and any patient affected should discuss alternatives with their doctor.”
Louis Goss
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