Source: PHARMAC
Pharmac Chief Advisor, Pharmaceuticals, Adrienne Martin says two oestradiol patch brands, Estradiol TDP Mylan and Estradot, are funded in New Zealand and are used as hormone replacement therapy to manage menopause symptoms.
People using Estradiol TDP Mylan patches can now collect more patches at once, meaning fewer trips to the pharmacy and a more convenient way to manage their treatment.
These changes are designed to make it easier for people to use Estradiol TDP Mylan patches, where it is right for them.
There are no changes for people prescribed the Estradot brand. They continue to collect one month’s supply (4 weeks) at a time and current patch limits remain in place. Supply of Estradot patches remains limited and is affected by global supply constraint.
In contrast, there are currently no supply issues with the Estradiol TDP Mylan brand.
“While supplies of Estradot remain limited, there may be times when this medicine is harder to get, or not available for everyone who needs it.
“To help support continued access to funded oestradiol patches, Pharmac has made changes that make Estradiol TDP Mylan easier and more convenient for people to access,” Martin says.
From 1 September, people using the Estradiol TDP Mylan brand of patches were able to collect up to three months’ supply (12 weeks) from their pharmacy at once, rather than the current limit of one month’s supply (4 weeks).
In addition, the two patches per week limit for the Estradiol TDP Mylan patches was removed.
The move followed consumer and clinician feedback that such changes would make it easier for people to use the Estradiol TDP Mylan patch where it is suitable for them.
As well, those requiring additional Estradiol TDP Mylan patches in various strengths can now also receive them all together, reducing the need for repeat pharmacy visits.
“The changes reflect the different supply situations for each brand and makes Estradiol TDP Mylan patches a more convenient and practical option for people to use where appropriate, helping reduce reliance on Estradot patches and protect its limited supply,” Martin says.
For the health system, the changes help support continuity of supply for people who need treatment.
Other funded hormone treatment options may also be suitable for some patients, including oestradiol gel (Estrogel), tablets (Estrofem – partially funded), and oestradiol valerate (Progynova).
“We know it can be worrying for patients when they’re unsure if the patch that works for them will be available. We also recognise that people may have different experiences with the different brands of patches.
“This is about making it easier and more convenient for people to use Estradiol TDP Mylan, while helping to preserve access to Estradot for those unable to use Estradiol TDP Mylan,” Martin says.
More information
Healthify: Oestrogen patches for menopausal hormonal treatment(external link).
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/10/08/changes-to-support-increased-access-to-estradiol-tdp-mylan-amid-ongoing-estradot-supply-constraints/