Drug Availability

HPS Pharmacies wish to give notice that Novartis Pharmaceuticals is experiencing a supply interruption for Estradot® patches as follows:

Estradot® 25
Estradiol 25mcg/24 hours
ARTG 97562

Estradot® 37.5
Estradiol 37.5mcg/24 hours
ARTG 97563

Estradot® 50
Estradiol 50mcg/24 hours
ARTG 97564

Estradot® 75
Estradiol 75mcg/24 hours
ARTG 97565

Estradot® 100
Estradiol 100mcg/24 hours
ARTG 97566

Normal supplies are expected to return in early July 2021. An internationally registered alternative of each strength has been approved for supply under Section 19A of the Therapeutic Goods Act 1989.

There are currently delays in accessing some of the Section 19A-approved strengths of these products. Therefore, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has issued a Serious Shortage Substitution Notice for Estradot® 25mcg, 75mcg, and 100mcg. These notices allow Estradot® patches to be substituted with the same strength of either Estraderm MX® or Climara®.

Please note that Climara® patches are applied weekly, while Estradot® and Estraderm MX® are applied twice-weekly. If Climara® patches are supplied under this arrangement, only half the quantity of patches specified in the original prescription for Estradot® should be dispensed. The TGA website should be consulted for further information.

The TGA advises that there have also been delays in accessing the Section 19A-approved 37.5mcg strength patch. As no other brands have an equivalent strength, people prescribed Estradot® 37.5mcg may need to consult their prescriber for suitable alternatives.

Retain this notice in a prominent position, including in other related business units until supplies return to normal. Report any problems identified with medicines, vaccines or medical devices to the TGA.

Should you require further information regarding this matter, please contact Novartis Pharmaceuticals on 1800 671 203 or your pharmacist at HPS Pharmacies.

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