Menopause drug Utrogestan restricted by ministers

As ministers have started restricting the drug due to shortages in the UK, the government has issued a Severe Shortages Protocol (SSP) for Utrogestan 100mg capsules.

The restriction means pharmacists can dispense a maximum of two months’ supply per prescription to ensure women using hormone replacement therapyHRT) can continue to receive treatment.

According to the Department of Health and Welfare (DHSC), Utrogestan is expected to be temporarily available by the end of this year.

Ministers have restricted sales of the menopause drug Utrogestan due to supply chain issues. (Image: PA)

Manufacturer Besins said it is increasing supply but is currently struggling to meet rising demand.

Speaking of bottlenecks: ladies Minister Maria Caulfield said: “Today’s crucial action will result in more women having access to this medicine and I would like to reassure women that the vast majority of HRT products are readily available.”

“The total offer HRT The quality of our products has improved significantly over the past year and I am encouraged by how the industry is responding to the growth in demand and our continued calls for measures to increase supply to meet that demand.

“We continue to work to ensure continuity of care – which is an integral part of providing increased support for menopausal and premenopausal women and improving their quality of life.”

The DHSC said a severe shortage protocol is a standard procedure often used to manage temporary and potential drug supply problems.