In the near future, I plan to introduce legislation urging immediate action of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to address ongoing shortages of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) medications, particularly transdermal estradiol products.

Women across our state are contacting physicians, pharmacies, insurers, and elected officials seeking assistance obtaining medications that have become increasingly difficult to access. Many report calling multiple pharmacies, traveling significant distances, accepting less effective alternatives, or foregoing treatment altogether. These experiences are not isolated incidents. Rather, they reflect a systemic mismatch between demand and available supply that warrants immediate federal attention.

Recent reporting and industry data indicate that demand for menopausal and perimenopausal hormone therapy has risen dramatically in recent years. Prescriptions for estrogen patches have increased substantially as awareness of menopause care has expanded and clinical guidance has evolved. Manufacturers and pharmacy providers have publicly acknowledged supply constraints affecting multiple products. Despite these realities, patients continue to face uncertainty regarding product availability and the anticipated duration of disruptions.

The FDA has long recognized that drug shortages can have significant consequences for patient care, treatment adherence, and public health. For millions of women, hormone replacement therapy is not a lifestyle medication. It is a medically necessary treatment used to manage severe vasomotor symptoms, sleep disruption, cognitive impairment, genitourinary symptoms, and other health conditions associated with menopause and perimenopause. Interruptions in treatment can significantly diminish quality of life, reduce workplace productivity, and create avoidable burdens on healthcare providers and patients alike.

According to the North American Menopause Society, approximately 6,000 women in the United States enter menopause each day—more than two million annually. As demand for evidence-based menopause care continues to grow, ensuring a stable supply of hormone therapy products is a matter of increasing national importance.

Accordingly, we respectfully request that the FDA:

• Conduct an immediate assessment of national supply and demand conditions for hormone replacement therapy products, including transdermal estradiol patches and other commonly prescribed formulations.

• Provide public transparency regarding product availability, anticipated supply constraints, and expected timelines for resolution.

• Engage directly with manufacturers to identify production bottlenecks and opportunities to increase capacity.

• Utilize all available authorities to mitigate supply disruptions and protect patient access to medically necessary therapies.

• Provide a written response outlining the FDA's assessment of current supply conditions and the actions being taken to address ongoing access concerns.

Women have historically faced significant barriers to receiving appropriate treatment especially when it comes to menopause care. At a time when healthcare systems, providers, and policymakers are working to improve access to treatment, persistent shortages threaten to undermine that progress. Our constituents deserve transparency, accountability, and reliable access to therapies prescribed by their healthcare providers.

I respectfully ask that you join me in co-sponsoring this important legislation.