# Global hormone replacement therapy shortages > Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/20261028-global-hormone-replacement-therapy-shortages > Updated: 2026-10-28T14:31:17.000Z. Sources: 3. Developments: 2. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) supplies have faced significant disruptions in both the United Kingdom and the United States. In the United Kingdom, shortages of specific products, such as Estradot and FemSeven Conti patches, have caused widespread distress. A survey indicated that 61% of women using HRT required repeat pharmacy visits, while 40% reported stress due to unavailability. In response, the government extended special dispensing arrangements for certain Estradot patch strengths until January 2027. In the United States, difficulties accessing estradiol patches, injections, and vaginal creams have been reported. Although the FDA has not officially classified estradiol patches as being in shortage, the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists has flagged multiple brands and dosages. Increased demand, partly driven by low pricing on platforms like Mark Cuban’s Cost Plus Drugs, has strained alternative supplies. U.S. senators have requested that the FDA clarify its criteria for declaring drug shortages. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-28: US estrogen supply faces shortages amid rising demand Despite the FDA's refusal to officially declare a shortage, patients and pharmacists report widespread difficulty finding estradiol patches, injections, and vaginal creams due to surging demand. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/us-estrogen-supply-faces-shortages-amid-rising-demand ### 2026-10-15: HRT shortages cause widespread disruption for women in Britain Widespread shortages of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in the UK are forcing many women to visit multiple pharmacies to secure medication, with Estradot and FemSeven Conti patches heavily affected. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/hrt-shortages-cause-widespread-disruption-for-women-in-britain --- Cite as: Global hormone replacement therapy shortages. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/20261028-global-hormone-replacement-therapy-shortages