AMS commends funding of MHT menopause medicines
11 February 2025:
The Australasian Menopause Society has welcomed the recent announcement by the Commonwealth Government in relation to Menopausal Hormone Therapies (MHT), extensive funding for menopause education and an extended menopause consultation time with General Practitioners.
From 1 March 2025, three commonly prescribed MHT products used to effectively treat some of the most common symptoms of the menopause will be available through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS): Estrogel Pro® (a combination pack of Oestradiol and Progesterone), Oestradiol (Estrogel®) and Progesterone (Prometrium®). MHT is the best treatment for hot flushes.
AMS Board President, Dr Sylvia Rosevear said, ‘The availability of these medicines on the PBS makes these medicines more affordable and provides greater choice, based on need.
‘The Australian Government has listened to the concerns of women across the country and subsequently taken this very positive step that supports and invests in women’s healthcare needs in the menopause,’ said Dr Rosevear.
Prior to this addition to the PBS, Australian women have been paying up to $650 per year for these three medications. After they are introduced on March 1st on the PBS, the cost to women will provide a significant improvement in affordability women with healthcare cards will pay $7.70 monthly ($92.40 annually) with non-concessional patients paying $31.60 every month ($379.20 annually).
Dr Rosevear continues ‘This announcement stems from one of the recommendations in the 2024 Senate Inquiry into Menopause and Perimenopause. Specifically, that the Government will ‘ensure appropriate access and lowered costs for all who need it.’
‘The addition of these medicines to the PBS will give women access to affordable, effective and available treatment options for menopausal symptoms. Considering symptoms for some are prolonged, this announcement is welcomed by both health professionals and consumers.’
Dr Rosevear continues, ‘It’s recommended that patients work closely with their healthcare professional.
‘Additionally, we look forward to more announcements from the Commonwealth stemming from last year’s Senate Inquiry that support women transitioning into perimenopause.’ Dr Rosevear concludes.
Further information on Estrogel and Prometrium is available in the Consumer Medicines Guide.
Please refer to the PBS website after March 1 for the full PBS schedule.
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To speak with a member of the Australasian Menopause Society Board please contact Geoff Setty on