Hims & Hers expands into menopause care as estrogen patch demand rises

April 22 (Reuters) - Telehealth company Hims & Hers HIMS.N said on Wednesday it will now offer treatment options for perimenopause and menopause via its platform, as rising U.S. demand for hormone therapy strains supplies of estrogen patches.

The company said the offering, available immediately to eligible users through its Hers platform, includes estrogen patch kits starting at $134 per month. Treatment plans may also include progesterone where clinically appropriate.

The launch comes as demand for estrogen patches has surged over the past year, leading to supply constraints nationwide. Industry sources have told Reuters shortages could last for up to three years following changes in U.S. health guidance on hormone replacement therapy.

Hims & Hers said it had secured sufficient inventory to allow eligible patients to begin or continue treatment without disruption.

Estrogen patches are a form of hormone replacement therapy that delivers the hormone through the skin into the bloodstream.

Patients receive care through licensed healthcare providers and have round-the-clock access to a care team trained in perimenopause and menopause treatment, the company said.

Hims & Hers said patients can adjust treatment plans over time in consultation with clinicians. They also have access through the Hers app to educational tools and content related to wellness, nutrition and sleep.

More than 1 million women in the United States enter menopause each year.

Use of estrogen patches rose sharply after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration last year removed a longstanding safety warning and publicly promoted hormone replacement therapy for some patients.

The FDA has not designated estrogen patches as being in shortage, but pharmacies across the country have reported inconsistent supply amid rising demand.