Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for menopause could be made available over the counter, reports have said.

The medication is used to offset symptoms by replacing hormones affected by the menopause.

The Daily Telegraph said health watchdogs are expected to propose a reclassification of the medication, which would allow anyone dealing with menopause symptoms to access it in a pharmacy without a prescription.

It is not known at this stage exactly which HRT product will be part of the proposal.

HRT over the counter

A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said the proposed changes to HRT treatments were "informed by women’s lived experience". 

The spokesperson said: “We understand that for some women menopause symptoms can have a significant impact on their quality of life, and we are committed to improving the care and support they receive.

“That’s why we’re developing the first ever government-led Women’s Health Strategy, informed by women’s lived experience.

“Menopause, including improving access to Hormone Replacement Therapy, will be a priority under the Strategy.”

It comes after the Government recently made moves to increase the accessibility of HRT.

In October 2021, the Government announced that the cost of repeat prescriptions for HRT would be significantly reduced in England.

The price reduction was praised by TV star Davina McCall, who delved into HRT as part of the Channel 4 documentary, Davina McCall: Sex, Myths and The Menopause.

McCall had been part of a rally calling for free HRT in England when the announcement was made.

Meanwhile one Labour MP made calls for a menopause "revolution" to give women more support.

Labour’s Carolyn Harris called for improved training, including for GPs, and a review of the school curriculum to help educate the next generation about the menopause.

The Swansea East MP said: “It’s time for change. It’s time for the menopause revolution. Women want it, women need it and women deserve it.”

Another MP Alex Davies-Jones (Labour, Pontypridd) said: “When it comes to medical conditions, inclusive language matters. And although the menopause does impact women, it does also impact trans men and non-binary people as well, and it’s important that that’s reflected so that they get accurate healthcare.”