Published: 16/06/23

Purpose 

This Circular advises NHS Boards and community pharmacy contractors that the UK-wide active Serious Shortage Protocol (SSP) for Progynova® (estradiol) TS 100 microgram patches, a hormone replacement therapy (HRT) product, due to expire on 9 June 2023, has now been extended until Friday 8 September 2023. 

The extension is applicable to SSP052, which allows community pharmacists to substitute a prescription of Progynova® (estradiol) TS 100 microgram patches with the same quantity of FemSeven® (estradiol) 100 microgram patches. 

Background 

To assist in alleviating the current issues with HRT availability, various UK-wide SSPs have been issued by the Department for Health and Social Care (DHSC), in consultation with the Scottish Government. An SSP is an additional tool to manage and mitigate medication shortages for prescribing clinicians, community pharmacies and importantly patients. 

Each SSP is individually developed and authorised clinically, to enable community pharmacists and dispensing doctors to dispense a different strength or formulation or alternative medicine or appliances in accordance with the protocol, rather than having to refer prescribing decisions back to the original prescriber. These protocols are time limited. 

The DHSC frequently reviews which HRT products should be under an SSP and for how long they need to be in place. 

The addition of new SSPs and any amendments or extensions to existing SSPs are documented on the NHS Business Services Authority website using the following link: Serious shortage protocols (SSPs) | NHSBSA. 

Enquiries 

For any queries on the details of this circular, please contact the Scottish Government Pharmacy Team at PharmacyTeam@gov.scot. 

Action 

Health Boards are asked to note the contents of this Circular and to bring it to the attention of community pharmacy contractors on their Pharmaceutical Lists and Area Pharmaceutical Committees. This Circular should also be brought to the attention of General Practices.