Elleste Duet 1mg shortage/Novofem side effects/what next?!

[sm365]

Hi folks, I've been prescribed Novofem because Elleste Duet 1 mg is still not available and its horrible: depression, anxiety, psychosis, gastro-intestinal problems - and to top it all my hair is falling out! I'm not sure whether to keep taking the Novofem (5 weeks and counting) while I wait for the Elleste to come back, go cold turkey or try something else. Does anyone have any advice?

Hello @sm365, sorry you've had to wait so long for a response.

Elleste Duet has been unavailable in my area for months. After a fun game of HRT roulette, thanks to my complete donkey of a GP, I did a lot of research and asked her to prescribe me Femoston 1/10.

I realise that everyone will react differently, but for me it's been absolutely wonderful and far better than Elleste. The mid-pack anxiety and bad temperedness has gone and there is a noticeable reduction in back and joint pain. Am now midway through my third month.

This may help WRT HRT alternatives if your usual brand is unavailable:

thebms.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/HRT-alternatives-04.11.2019.pdf

Thanks! I'm glad you've found a way through this.

I called my surgery and asked for someone who really knew their stuff on women's health who would be prepared to work with me on the right next thing given my personal circumstances.

I didn't hold out much hold because they are so busy due to COVID, so I also asked around and found the amazing www.menopausedoctor.co.uk/ and put my name on the waiting list. Kinda thought I'd just get by in the meantime and pay for a proper consultation if necessary.

Imagine my surprise when a new doctor called me from the practice and actually gave me that consultation on the NHS!
He took a detailed personal history, sent me off for blood tests and has prescribed evorel patches (body identical oestrogen - lowest dose to start, checking in every month) with utrogestan (body identical progesterone) for 10 days a month.
I will start this on Sunday when I've taken the last of the second month's novofem.

I'm really happy about this approach - I know it might take a while but I feel like I'm going forward vs trying every pill known to man.
Will report back if anyone is interested :)

Oh that's absolutely marvellous, OP! I'm delighted for you and would definitely be interested to hear how you get on going forward.

Wishing you good health and happiness.