Pharmac Implements Temporary Rationing of Menopause Medications Due to Global Supply Crisis

Pharmac implements monthly dispensing for HRT medications like progesterone and oestradiol patches as surging global demand and shipping issues strain New Zealand supplies.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 30, 2026, 6:53 AM EDT

Source: RNZ Pacific

Managing the Progesterone and Oestradiol Shortage

The supply constraints are affecting two primary forms of HRT: progesterone capsules and oestradiol patches. Adrienne Martin, Pharmac’s director of pharmaceuticals, explained that the rationing is a preventative measure designed to "spread the supply" until more stock arrives.

Progesterone Capsules: These have been particularly hard-hit by logistical issues, including "temperature excursions." Because these medications must be kept within strict temperature ranges during transit, any deviations during shipping require time-consuming safety checks, further delaying their arrival at local wholesalers.

Oestradiol Patches: The shortage is currently focused on the Estradot 75 microgram strength. While Pharmac funds two different brands of patches, one manufacturer has been unable to keep pace with the exponential rise in global orders.

The Drivers of Increased Demand

Pharmac has clarified that while geopolitical tensions, such as the conflict involving Iran, have caused anxiety regarding medical supply chains, the current HRT crisis is primarily a result of "long-standing" global demand issues rather than direct war-related shipping delays.