Sales of a medical patch that dispenses estrogen are skyrocketing. The Wall Street Journal reports that 142 million units of estradiol patches were sold last year, up more than 200% from five years ago. The patches, a form of hormone therapy, deliver a steady dose of estrogen and are especially popular among women in menopause and perimenopause, treating symptoms including hot flashes, vaginal changes and to prevent osteoporosis. The FDA says the treatment is primarily for women under 60 or within 10 years of menopause, though it can also treat some types of breast cancer and prostate cancer. The article notes a shortage of 11 patch products due to their popularity.
