The CombiPatch Shortage in 2026: Where Things Stand

If you've been struggling to fill your CombiPatch prescription, you're part of a growing number of women dealing with the ongoing hormone replacement therapy (HRT) supply crunch. The shortage of transdermal estrogen/progestin patches — including CombiPatch and its generics — has been an issue since 2022, and while there have been periods of improvement, 2026 has not brought a complete resolution.

Here's what you need to know right now about the CombiPatch shortage, what it costs, what options are emerging, and how to find it in stock.

Is CombiPatch Still in Shortage?

Yes, but the situation is complicated. CombiPatch (Estradiol/Norethindrone Acetate transdermal system) is not consistently available at all pharmacies nationwide. Some regions have adequate supply while others face persistent stockouts. The FDA Drug Shortage Database has listed various estrogen patch products intermittently over the past several years, and availability continues to fluctuate.

The shortage isn't a complete absence of the product — patches are still being manufactured and distributed. The problem is that demand continues to outpace supply, meaning pharmacies frequently run out and restocking timelines are unpredictable.

If your pharmacy tells you CombiPatch is backordered, it doesn't necessarily mean it's unavailable everywhere. Another pharmacy in your area — or a mail-order pharmacy — may have stock. Tools like Medfinder can help you check availability in real time.

Why Is CombiPatch Hard to Find?

Several factors have combined to create this ongoing shortage:

• Manufacturing complexity: Transdermal patches require specialized production facilities and precise drug-in-adhesive technology. Only a few manufacturers produce combination estrogen/progestin patches.
• Rising HRT demand: Awareness of menopause treatment has surged in recent years, driven by media coverage, patient advocacy, and a cultural shift toward addressing menopause symptoms. More prescriptions are being written than the supply chain was built to handle.
• Limited generic competition: Unlike many common medications with dozens of generic manufacturers, the combination HRT patch market has very few producers. When one has a disruption, the impact is outsized.
• Distribution imbalances: Even when stock exists, it may not be evenly distributed across pharmacies and regions.

For a deeper dive into these factors, read our article on why CombiPatch is so hard to find.

What Does CombiPatch Cost in 2026?

Cost remains a significant concern for many patients, especially during a shortage when you may need to fill your prescription at a pharmacy that doesn't accept your usual insurance or discount card.

• Brand-name CombiPatch: Cash prices typically range from $250 to $450 per month for a box of 8 patches (one month's supply at twice-weekly application).
• Generic Estradiol/Norethindrone Acetate patches: Cash prices range from approximately $150 to $350 per month, depending on the pharmacy.
• With insurance: Copays vary widely. Some plans cover CombiPatch or its generic with a specialty-tier copay of $30-$75, while others may require prior authorization or step therapy (trying oral HRT first).
• With discount cards: GoodRx, SingleCare, and other discount programs may bring the generic price down to $120-$200 at participating pharmacies.

For detailed money-saving strategies, see our guide on how to save money on CombiPatch.

Are There New Options for 2026?

The HRT landscape is slowly evolving, and a few developments are worth noting:

• Additional generic manufacturers: The FDA has been working to encourage more generic competition in the transdermal patch market. Any new entrants could help ease the supply crunch, though bringing a new generic patch to market takes time.
• Alternative combination products: Medications like Climara Pro (a once-weekly combination patch), Activella (oral Estradiol/Norethindrone Acetate), and Bijuva (oral Estradiol/Progesterone) remain available and may be easier to find. See our full guide to CombiPatch alternatives.
• Telehealth access: More providers are prescribing HRT through telehealth platforms, which can make it easier to get a prescription adjusted or switched to an available alternative without an in-person visit. Learn more about finding a doctor who prescribes CombiPatch.

How to Find CombiPatch in Stock Right Now

Here's a practical action plan:

1. Search on Medfinder: Go to medfinder.com and search for CombiPatch or Estradiol/Norethindrone Acetate patch by your zip code to see real-time pharmacy availability.
2. Call independent pharmacies: They often have different supply chains than major chains and may have stock when CVS or Walgreens don't.
3. Ask about both brand and generic: Sometimes one is available when the other isn't.
4. Consider mail-order pharmacies: They may have access to larger inventory pools.
5. Plan ahead: Start looking for refills at least two weeks before you run out.

For more detailed tips, read our article on how to find CombiPatch in stock near you.

Final Thoughts

The CombiPatch shortage is a frustrating reality for many women managing menopause, but it's not a dead end. Supply exists — it's just inconsistent. By staying informed, using the right tools, and working with your doctor on backup plans, you can continue your hormone therapy without unnecessary gaps.

Bookmark Medfinder for real-time availability checks, and don't hesitate to discuss alternative medications with your provider if CombiPatch remains elusive in your area.