I’ve heard about an estrogen patch or oral progesterone shortage, will I be affected?
Some pharmacies are experiencing shortages right now, but it’s important to know that not everyone will be affected. Check with your local pharmacy if they are being impacted by the shortages.
Is there anything else I can do to avoid being impacted?
- Refill early. If your insurance allows, requesting a refill up to two weeks ahead with your pharmacy may help prevent gaps.
- Request 90-day supplies. If your insurance allows, your Midi clinician can update your prescription to help minimize the frequency of pharmacy visits and stock uncertainty.
What is causing the shortages?
Due to a recent increase in demand for HRT, patients have been ordering more HRT medications, and unfortunately production hasn't kept up with demand in certain areas of the U.S.
When can I expect to get my prescription filled?
Occasionally pharmacies are reporting delays of a few days or even a few weeks to be able to fill prescriptions. It is pharmacy dependent but there are additional steps you can take to help keep your care steady.
I haven’t had any difficulty filling my prescription; is there anything I should be doing?
Nothing to do this month, but we recommend filling your next prescription earlier than usual (some insurances allow you to get refills up to two weeks early) as delays have been sporadic and could affect your pharmacy.
If I can’t get my estrogen patch or oral progesterone, what should I do?
- Message your Midi clinician.Your Midi clinician can help find alternative formulas for you such as a weekly patch or daily gel and they can help you transition your medications to keep your care consistent. Midi also offers compounded progesterone capsules, as well as compounded estradiol gel and cream available out of pocket and shipped directly to you.
- Ask your pharmacy about other brands. Your pharmacy may have an equivalent brand or generic version in stock that can be substituted.
- Check with other pharmacies. Inventory varies by location. Ask if nearby branches have stock or when they expect a restock. If you find another pharmacy with patches in stock, your current pharmacy may be able transfer your prescription electronically.
- Ask your insurance about mail-order options. Some insurance plans offer mail delivery pharmacies with different supplies.
What options does Midi offer if I can’t get the estrogen patch?
Your Midi clinician will work with you to find the best option for you but there are many options available such as gels, creams, vaginal rings, and pills. Midi also offers compounded estradiol gel and cream available out of pocket and shipped directly to you.
What options does Midi offer if I can’t get oral progesterone?
Message your Midi clinician to determine which medication is right for you. Midi also offers a compounded micronized progesterone capsule available out of pocket and shipped directly to you.
What is the difference between estradiol gel and estradiol cream?
If you have sensitive skin or prefer something with a faster drying time, you may want to consider the gel as it contains few irritants and dries more quickly than a cream. But if you have dry skin or find gels drying, you may appreciate the added emollient benefit of the cream.
How do I message my Midi clinician?
If you are already a patient, please watch this useful video on the exact steps to take to message your Midi clinician and when you are done you can start here. Remember to include “hrt”, “patch” or any of our new HRT products in the subject line.
I’m new to Midi, how do I message a clinician?
If you are new to Midi, please book a visit.