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Everything We Know About Estrogen Patch Shortages in US

Everything We Know About Estrogen Patch Shortages in US

Summary

There is a shortage of estrogen patches in the United States, which are commonly used to treat symptoms of menopause. The shortage comes after increased demand following the FDA's removal of a warning label on these medications, and several celebrities have shared advice about managing the shortage.

Key Facts

  • Estrogen patches deliver hormone therapy through the skin to help with menopause symptoms such as hot flashes and mood swings.
  • The FDA removed a black box warning about dementia, heart disease, and breast cancer risks from estrogen patches after 20 years.
  • After the warning was removed, demand for estrogen therapy rose by 26 percent.
  • The increased demand has caused shortages of estrogen patches in the U.S. since early 2024.
  • Doctors expect these shortages to continue or worsen before improving.
  • Celebrities like Amy Schumer have warned women to get a three-month supply and explore other forms of estrogen like gels or creams.
  • Some stars suggested asking doctors about compounded estrogen creams as alternatives.
  • Estrogen therapy not only treats menopause symptoms but also offers other health benefits like protecting bones and supporting memory.
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