Hormone replacement therapy to be offered over the counter in UK
Hormone replacement therapy is to be offered over the counter for the first time in the UK after the medicines watchdog gave the green light.
Millions of women go through the menopause every year, with the majority experiencing some symptoms that can be severe and have a negative impact on everyday life.
In a landmark move hailed as a “huge step forward” for women’s health, the first type of HRT to become available at pharmacies without a prescription will be Gina 10 microgram vaginal tablets (containing estradiol).
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) said the vaginal tablets would be available for post-menopausal women from September after a safety review.
Maria Caulfield, the minister for women’s health, said: “Menopause affects hundreds of thousands of women every year, but for some its symptoms can be debilitating and for many they can be misunderstood or ignored.
“Making Gina available over the counter is a huge step forward in enabling women to access HRT as easily as possible, ensuring they can continue living their life as they navigate the menopause.”
Source: The Guardian, 20 July 2022