Both estradiol products have been out of stock in the UK since the end of last year as a result of a “quality issue with regards to the adhesive that keeps patches attached to the skin”, manufacturer Theramex – which acquired the products in a divestment from Teva Pharmaceuticals in February 2018 – told C+D.

Theramex is “evaluating other sources of adhesive from alternative suppliers”, but this is a “time consuming process”, it said last week (April 26).

“We will inform clinics, hospitals [and] pharmacies when the products are available,” it added.

There are currently no other HRT products with precisely the same composition as FemSeven Conti or Sequi, the manufacturer said, and so it is unable to suggest any alternative treatments.

“We recommend patients consult their doctor for further advice on potential HRT alternatives,” Theramex said. “A decision on treatment should be made individually for each patient depending on an overall balance of indication, risk and convenience.”

FemSeven Mono is still available, the manufacturer stressed.

FemSeven Sequi and FemSeven Conti were among the HRTs on a list of 177 medicines which the National Pharmacy Association said last week have been experiencing shortages. The list also featured the HRTs Elleste Solo, Elleste Duet and Cyclo-Progynova.