Spain faces hormone replacement therapy shortages affecting thousands of women

Hundreds of thousands of Spanish women have spent months encountering difficulties obtaining hormone replacement therapies used to relieve menopausal symptoms, Euronews reported. The supply issues began with a shortage of Lenzetto, a transdermal estradiol spray. The shortfall has since created a domino effect across the market for other hormone treatments in Spain and several other European countries. [1]

Increased demand for alternative products caused by the Lenzetto shortage has expanded the supply bottleneck to additional hormone therapies, according to Euronews. Spain's Health Ministry stated that it expects supply levels to improve in November. However, the Spanish Medicines watchdog warned that the exact timetable for recovery remains unclear. [1]

Menopause is a natural biological process that typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55 years worldwide. It is preceded by perimenopause, a transitional phase characterized by fluctuating hormone levels, irregular cycles, and physical symptoms including hot flashes, night sweats, and mood alterations. [5]

Patients in Spain continue to face challenges accessing their prescribed treatments while health authorities attempt to stabilize the supply chain, Euronews reported. The ongoing shortages leave many women without consistent medical care for their symptoms. [1]