Months-long shortages of oestrogen patches have left doctors “annoyed” and have added to their workload when prescribing menopausal hormone therapy, a leading GP says.

A dozen transdermal oestrogen patch products have been in short supply this year, with disruptions forcing patients to repeatedly swap between brands and alternative formulations.

Manufacturing issues that have led to shortages in 25µg and 37.5µg transdermal oestradiol (Estradot) patches and two strengths of combined oestradiol norethisterone acetate (Estalis) patches are expected to be resolved soon, according to the TGA.

But 75µg and 100µg estradiol (Estraderm) patches will be unavailable until mid-October and March, respectively, as a result of increased demand.