Is There a HRT Shortage in the UK in 2025?

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) plays a critical role in alleviating menopause symptoms, helping millions of women in the UK manage this natural life transition. However, ongoing shortages of HRT products in 2025 have left many women struggling to access the treatment they need. This article delves into the reasons behind the shortage, its impact, and the measures being taken to address it.

Key Takeaways

What is HRT and Its Benefits?

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) helps manage menopause symptoms like hot flushes, night sweats, and mood swings. It also supports bone health and enhances overall quality of life by supplementing hormones like oestrogen and progesterone that decline during menopause.

Why Is There an HRT Shortage?

The shortage is driven by increased demand from better awareness and affordability through the HRT Prescription Prepayment Certificate (PPC), along with supply chain challenges. Manufacturing delays and stockpiling have exacerbated availability issues.

Recent Government Updates on HRT

In November 2024, Nick Timothy MP highlighted HRT availability in Parliament. Karin Smyth MP responded, confirming improvements in supply and emphasising over 70 stocked HRT products. The PPC has helped over 500,000 women save up to £220 per year on prescriptions. This reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring accessible and affordable menopause care.

What is Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)?

HRT is a medical treatment designed to ease the symptoms of menopause by supplementing the body with hormones like oestrogen and progesterone, which naturally decline during this phase. Some HRT formulations contain oestrogen only, while others combine it with progesterone.

Benefits of HRT

• Symptom relief: Reduces hot flushes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and mood swings.

• Bone health: Helps prevent osteoporosis by maintaining bone density.

• Improved quality of life: Enhances sleep, concentration, and overall well-being.

Why is There an HRT Shortage in the UK?

The HRT shortage in 2025 stems from several factors, including:

Increased Demand

• Rising awareness: Campaigns like Davina McCall’s documentaries have educated women about HRT’s benefits, leading to a 40% increase in demand.

Video: Talking Menopause With Davina McCall

In the video below you can watch TV personality, Davina McCall, talk in detail with Dr Louise Newson about helping women to receive evidence based treatment and information for menopause and perimenopause:

Video: Davina McCall: Make these daily choices and live the life you deserve

In a 2024 discussion with Dr Sarah Barry, Davina also covered whether or not you should consider HRT in a wider discussion about making daily life choices that can improve life and living with menopause.

• Policy changes: The UK government’s October 2021 decision to reduce HRT prescription charges made it more accessible, driving further demand.

Supply Chain Disruptions

• Manufacturing issues: Some pharmaceutical companies have faced production delays, exacerbating shortages.

• COVID-19 impact: The pandemic strained healthcare systems, diverting attention and resources away from HRT supply chains.

Distribution Challenges

• Stockpiling: Fears of shortages have led some individuals to stockpile HRT products, worsening supply issues.

How is the UK Government Addressing the HRT Shortage?

The previous Conservative UK Government has implemented several measures to tackle the shortage:

Appointment of an HRT Tsar

Madelaine McTernan, who played a pivotal role in the COVID-19 vaccine rollout, was appointed as the HRT Tsar. Her responsibilities included:

• Collaborating with pharmaceutical companies to improve supply.

• Working with the NHS and governing bodies like the Royal College of General Practitioners.

• Streamlining the distribution process to ensure equitable access.

Strategic Task Force

Former Health and Social Care Secretary, Sajid Javid, established a task force to:

• Monitor supply chains.

• Facilitate communication between manufacturers, prescribers, and pharmacists.

• Explore alternative HRT options to meet growing demand.

Recent updates:

In November 2024, Nick Timothy, a Conservative MP for West Suffolk, raised an important question in Parliament about the availability and accessibility of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for women managing menopause. The inquiry highlights the growing recognition of women's health issues and the need for effective solutions. Karin Smyth, a Labour MP for Bristol South, responded on behalf of the Department of Health and Social Care, providing an update on HRT supply improvements and the benefits of the HRT Prescription Prepayment Certificate (PPC). This discussion reflects the Government's commitment to prioritising women's health and ensuring affordable treatment options.

MP Nick Timothy's Question:

Nick Timothy, a Conservative MP for West Suffolk, asked the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care about access to hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for women experiencing menopause.

Government's Response:

Karin Smyth, a Labour MP for Bristol South, responded on behalf of the Department of Health and Social Care.

Commitment to Women's Health:

The Government prioritises women's health and equality, ensuring access to necessary treatments for menopause, including HRT. Women are encouraged to consult their GP or healthcare professionals for advice on managing menopause symptoms.

HRT Availability:

• There are over 70 HRT products, most of which are well-stocked.

• A few products faced supply issues due to increased demand, but availability has significantly improved in the past year.

HRT Prescription Prepayment Certificate (PPC):

• Over 500,000 women have benefited from cheaper HRT prescriptions.

• The PPC offers significant savings, with some patients saving up to £220 per year.

Answered On: 21 November 2024
Answered By: The Department of Health and Social Care

This underscores the current Labour Government's focus on supporting women's health through accessible and affordable menopause care.

What Can You Do If Your HRT Product Is Unavailable?

Seek Alternatives

If your prescribed HRT product is out of stock:

• Speak with your GP or pharmacist about alternatives.

• Many substitutes contain the same active ingredients and can provide similar benefits.

Reduce Dosages

Healthcare providers may recommend reducing quantities to ensure more women can access HRT during shortages.

Stay Informed

Keep up-to-date with announcements from the NHS and the British Menopause Society regarding availability.

Shortages of Specific HRT Products

Certain HRT products are affected more than others, with availability varying based on manufacturing and distribution issues. Commonly impacted products include:

• Oestrogen-only patches.

• Combination therapies.

Healthcare providers are working closely with manufacturers to resolve these issues as quickly as possible.

Managing Menopause Symptoms During HRT Shortages

If you're unable to access HRT, there are other ways to manage menopause symptoms effectively:

Natural Remedies

• Phytoestrogens: Found in soy products and flaxseeds, these mimic oestrogen and can alleviate symptoms.

• Herbal treatments: Black cohosh, red clover, and evening primrose oil have been shown to reduce hot flushes and night sweats.

Lifestyle Adjustments

• Exercise: Regular physical activity improves mood and bone health.

• Diet: A balanced diet rich in calcium, vitamin D, and omega-3s can support overall health.

• Stress management: Techniques like mindfulness, yoga, and deep breathing can ease mood swings and anxiety.

Final Thoughts

The HRT shortage in the UK has highlighted the critical need for reliable access to menopause treatments. While the government and healthcare providers are working to address these issues, women affected by the shortage should explore alternative options and consult healthcare professionals for guidance.

For those seeking HRT products, UK Meds offers a range of options. Complete a free online consultation to determine the best treatment for your needs. Always consult your doctor prior to starting any treatment to ensure that it is safe and suitable for you.

Sources

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) - NHS Inform