Free HRT for menopause
Introduction
If you are experiencing symptoms of menopause and perimenopause you may be eligible for free hormone replacement therapy (HRT) from the HSE.
There are different types of HRT including tablets, skin patches, gels, sprays, vaginal creams or pessaries.
Your GP will help you decide if HRT is right for you and give advice on the type that would suit you best.
If you experience certain health issues your GP may recommend alternatives to HRT, for example, if you had breast cancer, ovarian cancer or womb cancer. The HSE also has information about the risks of HRT before starting treatment.
Who is eligible for free HRT?
Since 1 June 2025, you can get free HRT from a pharmacy participating in the free HRT scheme if you have a prescription from a GP, registered nurse or midwife and you:
- Are registered for the Drugs Payment Scheme, or
- Have a medical card
You can apply for a Drugs Payment Scheme card if you are ordinarily resident in Ireland. This means you are living in Ireland and intend to live here for a minimum of one year.
How do I get my HRT free?
If you are experiencing menopause or perimenopause symptoms, tell your GP or public nurse and they will check if you could be suitable for HRT. If you are, you may be given a prescription for HRT.
Since 1 June 2025, you can get this medication completely free at pharmacies participating in the free HRT scheme if you have a medical card or a Drugs Payment Scheme card.
If you have a medical card
Since 1 June 2025, your HRT will be completely free with your medical card, at pharmacies participating in the free HRT scheme.
Before 1 June 2025, you may have had to pay a prescription charge for medical card holders or a dispensing fee.
If you do not have a medical card
If you do not have a medical card, you can get free HRT since 1 June 2025, if you are registered for the Drugs Payment Scheme.
If you are ordinarily resident in Ireland, you can register for the Drugs Payment Scheme.
If you do not have a medical card or Drugs Payment Scheme card
If you do not have a medical card or a Drugs Payment Scheme card, you will have to pay for prescribed HRT drugs and medicines.
Further information on HRT
Find your nearest participating pharmacy on the HSE website.
If you cannot take HRT or decide not to, there are other ways to relieve your symptoms of menopause.
Read more about women's health in Ireland.