‘Good news’ for Kiwi women as PHARMAC funds Utrogestan from today

Pharmaco (NZ) Ltd welcomes the start of PHARMAC funding for Utrogestan^® (micronised progesterone), which begins today. The funding means thousands of Kiwi women now have access to this medication, which when combined with an oestrogen can help reduce menopausal symptoms.

Utrogestan is indicated for Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT – also known as HRT) alongside oestrogen in postmenopausal women with an intact uterus. In reviewing the application for funding, the PHARMAC Endocrinology Subcommittee noted that providing wider access to Utrogestan could help address the lack of treatment for patients who cannot tolerate currently funded options. The subcommittee also noted the health risks and health needs of Māori and Pacifica women who are at an increased risk of early menopause.

The start of funding of progesterone has been welcomed by Christchurch endocrinologist Dr. Anna Fenton, who says: “This decision by PHARMAC provides more equitable access to a form of progesterone which is identical to the body’s natural form. Menopause is not a quick process and for many women it can have significant impact on their quality of life. This announcement now allows women to potentially have greater choice and access to medication that may meet their needs. It is really good news.”

Christine Ivers, Head of Digital and Marketing at Pharmaco (NZ) Limited, adds: “The growing body of science shows that use of Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT – previously known as HRT) can potentially help improve quality of life and may be associated with fewer women having severe symptoms that can impact on their ability to work.

We therefore encourage women to speak to their GPs if they think they are experiencing symptoms of menopause. They can then explore how newly funded medicines, such as Utrogestan, might help benefit their quality of life.”

UTROGESTAN IS A PRESCRIPTION MEDICINE

Utrogestan is a soft capsule containing 100 mg of progesterone.

Utrogestan capsules are for use in combination with oestrogen in post-menopausal women with an intact uterus (womb), for hormone replacement therapy. For oral use only.

Do not use Utrogestan if you have an allergy to any medicine containing progesterone. Do not use Utrogestan if you have any of the following conditions: unusual vaginal bleeding, severe liver problems, known or suspected cancer of the breast or genital tract, blood clots, bleeding on the brain, porphyria. Do not take Utrogestan if you are pregnant or intend to become pregnant or if you are breastfeeding.

Further information on the risks and benefits of this medicine can be found in the Consumer Medicines Information (CMI). Please refer to www.medsafe.govt.nz or your pharmacist for a copy of the CMI.

Ask your Doctor if Utrogestan is right for you. Use strictly as directed. If symptoms continue or you have side effects, see your doctor, pharmacist, or healthcare professional.

Side Effects:

Tell your Doctor or Pharmacist of you notice any of the following and they worry you: headache, abnormal breakthrough bleeding and/or vaginal bleeding/spotting or changes in secretions, loss of menstruation, unusual tiredness or weakness or weight gain, acne, breast pain or tenderness, mild mood changes, changes in libido and insomnia

Tell your Doctor as soon as possible if you notice any of the following: constipation, breast pain, swelling or tenderness, headache, depression, skin rash, dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, do not drive or operate machinery.

If you notice any of the following happen, stop taking Utrogestan and tell your Doctor immediately or go to the Accident and Emergency at your nearest hospital: migraine, loss of or change of speech, coordination or vision, pain or numbness in chest, arm or leg, unexplained shortness of breath, any symptoms of blood clots, yellowing of skin or eyes. The above list includes serious side effects, which may need urgent medical attention. These side effects are rare.

Tell your Doctor or Pharmacist as soon as possible if you do not feel well while you are taking Utrogestan. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines. Some medicines may affect the way other medicines work.

Utrogestan is a funded medicine, a prescription and a doctor’s charge may apply.