Estrogen patch shortages are getting worse and could last for years

A surge in demand since last year for hormone replacement patches to ease menopause symptoms has strained supplies and led to shortages, sparking a scramble.

A surge in demand since last year for estrogen patches to ease menopause symptoms has strained supplies and led to shortages, sparking a scramble for medicines that industry sources say could last up to three years.

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More than 1 million U.S. women ​begin menopause each year.

Over the past two years they have increasingly sought out estrogen patches to treat mood swings, hot flashes and sleep disturbances. Social media in particular has ‌been a forum for changing views on the medicines’ safety and benefits.