Can't find Lyllana? Here are real alternatives including Climara, Dotti, Vivelle-Dot, and EstroGel that your doctor may prescribe instead.
If your pharmacy can't fill your Lyllana prescription, you're not stuck. Several FDA-approved alternatives contain the same active ingredient — Estradiol — and can provide the same relief from menopause symptoms. The key is working with your doctor to find the right one for you.
The ongoing Estradiol patch shortage has left many women scrambling, but understanding your options puts you in a much better position. Let's walk through what Lyllana is, how it works, and which alternatives might work for you.
Lyllana is a brand-name Estradiol transdermal patch made by Amneal Pharmaceuticals. It's a form of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) prescribed for:
The patch comes in five strengths (0.025 mg/day to 0.1 mg/day) and is applied to the skin twice weekly. For a complete overview, see our guide on what Lyllana is and how to use it.
Lyllana delivers Estradiol — a bioidentical form of the estrogen your body naturally produces — through your skin into your bloodstream. During menopause, your ovaries produce less estrogen, leading to symptoms like hot flashes, mood changes, and bone loss. By replacing that estrogen transdermally, Lyllana helps restore hormonal balance.
The transdermal route is important because it bypasses the liver (unlike oral estrogen pills), which may result in a lower risk of blood clots. This makes patches a preferred choice for many women, especially those with cardiovascular risk factors. Read more about the science in our mechanism of action guide.
The following are FDA-approved alternatives that contain the same active ingredient (Estradiol) in a transdermal patch form:
Climara is an Estradiol patch made by Bayer that you apply once a week instead of twice. It comes in multiple strengths (0.025 mg/day to 0.1 mg/day) and works the same way as Lyllana — delivering Estradiol through the skin.
Key difference: Once-weekly application means fewer patch changes and potentially better adherence. Some women find this more convenient, while others prefer the more frequent dosing of twice-weekly patches for steadier hormone levels.
Cost: Brand-name Climara can cost $150–$250 per month without insurance. Generic versions are available and may cost $30–$80 with a discount card.
Dotti is a twice-weekly Estradiol patch — very similar to Lyllana in how it's used and dosed. It's available in the same strengths and applies to the same areas of the body (lower abdomen or buttocks).
Key difference: Dotti and Lyllana are essentially interchangeable for most patients. The main differences are in the patch adhesive and carrier system, which may matter if you've had skin irritation with one brand.
Cost: Generic Dotti is typically $25–$50 per month with a discount card.
Vivelle-Dot is one of the most widely prescribed Estradiol patches. Made by Noven Pharmaceuticals, it's a twice-weekly patch available in four strengths (0.025 mg/day to 0.1 mg/day).
Key difference: Vivelle-Dot has been on the market longer than Lyllana and has extensive clinical data. It's also affected by the current shortage, but availability may vary by region.
Cost: Brand-name Vivelle-Dot can cost $150–$300 per month. Generic versions are significantly cheaper.
EstroGel is an Estradiol topical gel applied once daily to the skin of the arm. It delivers the same hormone as Lyllana but in gel form rather than a patch.
Key difference: No adhesive means no skin irritation from patches. However, you need to apply it daily (versus twice weekly for patches), and you have to be careful about skin-to-skin contact with others until the gel dries.
Cost: EstroGel costs approximately $150–$200 per month for brand name. Generic Estradiol gel options may be available for less.
Never switch medications on your own. Always talk to your doctor or prescriber, who can:
If you need help finding a provider who prescribes HRT, see our guide on how to find a doctor who prescribes Lyllana.
The Lyllana shortage is stressful, but it doesn't mean you have to go without treatment. Climara, Dotti, Vivelle-Dot, and EstroGel are all proven alternatives that can help manage your menopause symptoms. Work with your doctor to find the best fit, and use Medfinder to check availability at pharmacies near you.
For tips on reducing your out-of-pocket costs when switching, check our guide to saving money on Lyllana and its alternatives.
You focus on staying healthy. We'll handle the rest.
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