Pharmacists have said trying to get hold of the two most popular HRT patches is like a lottery (file picture). Photo: BSIP via AFP
Women who currently use the funded Estradot patch to treat perimenopause symptoms may find out late next month whether they will still be able to get it in future, Pharmac has announced.
The government's drug funding agency said it was in discussions with suppliers, including the supplier of the Estradot brand, as well as consumer groups who represent users of the patches, about potential next steps.
There was a huge public backlash to the agency's decision announced in November to fund the Mylan brand of patch instead, with many women claiming it was less effective in controlling their symptoms.
More than 1300 people signing a petition calling on the government to keep Estradot available.
Pharmac's director of equity and engagement, Dr Nicola Ngawati, said Pharmac was working to make sure people who use other brands of oestradiol patches would continue to have their needs met beyond December 2025.
"We'll be seeking feedback about access to alternative brands through a public consultation before making any decisions. The consultation will be provided to key stakeholders and interested groups, including the organisers of a recent petition, as well as being published on our website," she said.
Pharmac would provide a further update in late January 2025.
"The various brands of patches that people are currently using, including Estradot, will continue to be available as we work through this process."
She said Pharmac had earlier believed the main problem was the lack of supply of oestradiol patches.
"However, the recent feedback has highlighted it's not only about supply - it's also about personal choice. We acknowledge that our consultation process could have been more robust and are committed to improving this."
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