different brands of HRT - resurge in symptoms?

[HeraldicBlazoning]

I use just estrogen patches as I have had a hysterectomy. Because of supply issues, the GP does me a prescription for generic "estradiol patches" and the pharmacy gives me whatever is available. I have been plodding along on 50 mcg, increased about July to 75 mcg as I feel my symptoms are returning. Was on Estradot patches which were great, small and sticky, seemed to keep my symptoms under control.

Recently though Estradot has been impossible to source and my next 3 months is Evorel. Patches are much larger and less comfortable, but the same 75 mcg strength.

Over the last week I feel some of my symptoms again - but at a lower level. No issues getting to sleep, but regularly waking early. Slight feeling of unease and apprehension about the future - but nothing like the full on depression and hopelessness I had previously.

Can different brands affect you in different ways or is it all my imagination?

No advice but following to see if anyone else posts. I've just been given a supply of Evorel in place of my usual Estradot. Mentioned in my prescription request to GP that they had been hard to source in past 6 months but never asked for an alternative so was a bit surprised to pick up my prescription this week and find I'd been given something different. Not started using them yet as still have couple weeks of Estradot but interested to see if they are any different.

They are 10 times the size for a start! I'm feeling a bit better this evening though, not sure if that's the patches or just the ups and downs of being hormonal.

I don't mind the large Evorel patches in winter but last summer when we were on holiday they had to be positioned carefully so they didn't show under swimwear. I really wish they'd sort out the supply issues.

Agree - if this was medication for men there wouldn't be a shortage at all....