Women nationwide have struggled since January to fill prescriptions for patches used to treat hot flashes, sleep problems and brain fog, with some piecing together lower-dose options to stay on therapy.
Manufacturers had reported some shortages as far back as 2023, but menopause care providers say the supply problem has spread more widely this year.
Pharmacists specializing in menopause medicine say patients still face inconsistent access, and experts say it remains unclear when supplies will stabilize.