Saturday, February 8, 2025

Oestradiol Gel Consultation Opens: Pharmac Proposes Funding Without Restrictions

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Oestradiol is primarily used as a hormone replacement for people who don’t produce enough oestrogen. It is most often used as a patch placed on the skin, but it is also available as a gel or tablet. Te Pātaka Whaioranga is now consulting on a proposal to fund oestradiol gel (branded Estrogel) without restrictions, meaning it would be available for anyone prescribed it.

Pharmac’s Director of Equity and Engagement, Dr. Nicola Ngawati, says that if approved, more than 18,000 people would benefit in the first year of funding. About 86,000 people used oestradiol in some form in the 2023/24 financial year, primarily as a hormone replacement therapy (HRT). In recent years, demand for oestradiol patches has surged, growing from 1.3 million patches dispensed in 2020/21 to over 4.6 million patches in 2023/24. This surge has led to significant supply shortages, not only in New Zealand but also in other countries, including Australia.

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Oestradiol Gel Funding Proposal Aims to Alleviate Supply Shortages and Expand Treatment Options

Dr. Ngawati notes that the funding of an oestradiol gel would be a great addition to the treatment options already available and would help alleviate the supply shortages causing stress and frustration for many people. Menopause doctor Linda Dear agrees, stating that the availability of a fully funded oestradiol gel would ease the supply situation and provide a crucial alternative for those using HRT.

Following public consultation, a funding proposal will be taken to Pharmac’s Board, or a delegate, for a decision. If approved, oestradiol gel is expected to be available from November 1, 2024.

The importance of HRT cannot be overstated, as it plays a critical role in managing menopause symptoms, osteoporosis, and premature ovarian insufficiency. Menopause can cause various physical and emotional symptoms, including sleep disruption, low energy levels, and emotional health challenges. Effective treatments, ranging from lifestyle adjustments to hormone therapy, are available to manage these symptoms.

Oestradiol

Oestradiol Treatments Address Osteoporosis and Premature Ovarian Insufficiency

Osteoporosis, a bone disease that develops when bone mineral density and mass decrease, can be prevented by taking hormone treatments soon after menopause. Premature ovarian insufficiency occurs when a person’s ovaries stop working before age 40, leading to reduced production of oestrogen and irregular egg release. HRT helps replenish the oestrogen that is lacking due to ovarian insufficiency.

The consultation process aims to gather public feedback to ensure all considerations are addressed before finalizing the funding proposal. If issues are identified, Pharmac may seek further information and advice. Once the consultation is complete, the funding proposal will be presented to Pharmac’s Board or a delegate for approval.

Pharmac recognizes the stress caused by the inability to access certain strengths of oestradiol patches and is working to resolve the supply issues. The demand for oestradiol patches in New Zealand has more than doubled over the past few years, with usage increasing from approximately 22,300 people in 2020/21 to 84,500 in 2023/24. The global shortage of oestradiol patches is not unique to New Zealand, as many countries, including Australia, face similar challenges. International suppliers are ramping up production capabilities but are struggling to keep up with global demand.

Pharmac is doing everything possible to ensure continued access to this treatment, working closely with suppliers, prescribers, and pharmacists. The funding of oestradiol gel is expected to ease the pressure on the supply of patches, improving the availability outlook. However, the oestradiol patches supply issue is likely to continue through 2024. Pharmac encourages people to talk to their pharmacists about availability and to stay informed about new shipments of oestradiol patches through the Pharmac website.

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In conclusion, the proposal to fund oestradiol gel without restrictions represents a significant step towards addressing the supply shortages and meeting the growing demand for HRT. The outcome of the consultation process will determine the availability of this vital treatment option, potentially benefiting thousands of people and alleviating the current stress and frustration associated with oestradiol patch shortages.

Resource: Pharmac, July 25, 2024


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