I was told today by the medical professional in charge of my transgender care that the manufacturer of the injectable estrogen was going to stop making it. I don't want to scare anyone, but I was urged to write a letter to advocate for its continuation. Has anyone else heard this?
Moni
I found this http://www.ashp.org/menu/DrugShortages/CurrentShortages/bulletin.aspx?id=1186
Compounding pharmacies can make it. ;)
I don't think that's the brand name on my estradiol valerate - I will look at the package tonight and let you know. So there may be a viable substitute.
-- and I've just called in my next refill so as to not get caught short later. Whatever brand I am using is in supply right now.
My understanding of the issue isn't they are stopping production, it's a problem with some of the ingredients. According to an article I saw, the manufacturers had to switch suppliers for some of the ingredients which requires new approval by the FDA and, with typical government efficiency, they have been dragging their feet.
Ok as I thought my prescription is the generic, manufactured by Perrigo and that's also on indefinite backorder according to Dena's link.
So I'm not holding my breath that my order will go through but I should know by Monday, fingers crossed. If it does go through, I'll let y'all know which pharmacy.
Although measuring out my small dose is difficult - the only concentration available here is 40mg/ml - I'm glad of it now because the vial I have on hand should last into next year.
This explains why I can't get mine refilled. Ugh. I've emailed my doctor and my pharmacy has called and left messages. Ugh.
Hi,
I was told the supplier should have delestrogen late September. I had to switch back to pills. Now I am off HRT for 20 days so hopefully later September I will be able to get my injectable E.
The pharmacy I go to is http://www.inmanpharmacy.com/ in Cambridge MA. They have 4 vials in stock of Perrigo generic estradiol valerate 5ml 40mg/ml.
Hope that's helpful for anyone who may come up short.
This threat regarding valerate has been around for a loooooooong time now. There seems to be some problem off and on with shortages, but I don't think they'll quit making it. Cypionate seems to be another story. It's the alternative and there never seems to be an access issue with that.