Sweden reports improving availability of estrogen medications

Swedish Social Minister Jakob Forssmed has received an investigation regarding the ongoing shortage of estrogen medications, including sprays, patches, and gels. While the shortage has persisted for several years due to increased national and international demand, authorities report a trend indicating that availability is beginning to improve.

To address the issue, the Dental and Pharmaceutical Benefits Agency (TLV) has approved higher prices for estrogen medications to encourage manufacturers to prioritize the Swedish market. This measure, however, results in higher costs for patients. The Swedish Medical Products Agency is also investigating the possibility of starting domestic production, though only one actor has expressed interest so far.

Approximately 380,000 women over the age of 45 in Sweden are treated with estrogen. Tina Crafoord, Director of the Medical Products Agency, noted that while the shortage is not yet fully resolved for certain forms like sprays and patches, the improvement should become more evident after the turn of the year.