How Does Bio-Identical Hormone Therapy Work?

 

Myths and Facts About Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy for Women:  McDowell Mountain Gynecology: General Gynecology & Minimally Invasive  Surgeries

Bio-Identical hormones are substances that mimic the hormones your body produces. These compounds are made by pharmaceutical companies and are absorbed into your body rather than swallowed.

These substances are not approved by the FDA. In addition to their natural sources, they can vary greatly in form, as every physical body is different. That is why some health care practitioners offer customized bioidentical hormones, made to your unique requirements.

Compound bioidentical hormones are not FDA-approved

Compound bioidentical hormones are a form of hormone therapy that a compounding pharmacist prepares from a patient’s prescription. These hormones may be in a variety of dosages, forms, and combinations. Unlike FDA-approved hormones, compounded hormones are not subject to rigorous quality and purity testing. Nonetheless, these products are often popular among patients seeking a more customized medicine.

Bioidentical hormones can be a safe and effective option for treating hormone-related symptoms related to menopause and hormonal imbalances. However, there are some risks associated with using bioidentical hormones. Because compounded hormones have not been studied extensively, they may pose additional risks. For this reason, it is important to discuss any hormone replacement therapy with your healthcare provider.

They are made by drug companies

Bio-identical hormone therapy is made by drug companies and is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). There are several different forms of bio-identical hormones, including synthetic and natural hormones. A physician should specify the ingredients of any bio-identical product. However, there are some risks involved in using these hormones that are unknown.

Many of these products are marketed as being more natural and safe than traditional hormone replacement therapy. Some marketers claim that their products are “all-natural” and “bio-identical.” These products may be chemically or biologically identical to the hormones produced by the body, but the FDA does not approve them as “bioidentical” hormones. Because of this, bio-identical hormones may not be as safe as the FDA-approved drugs. However, they may be more effective than the conventional hormone-replacement therapy.

They are absorbed rather than swallowed

Bio-Identical hormones are available in a variety of forms and dosages. Unlike synthetic hormones, which are often swallowed, bio-identical hormones are absorbed. The medication passes through the mucosa rather than the digestive tract, allowing it to reach the desired target in the body more quickly. This is beneficial in two ways. First, it can be absorbed directly into the bloodstream. Second, it can be absorbed topically, which makes it safer for people with liver or cholesterol problems.

Fortunately, chemists have developed a way to make identical hormones. They can use a naturally occurring ingredient found in soybeans or yams to synthesize the hormones we need. Then, they can be manufactured in a commercial compounding pharmacy. These pellets are small and easily inserted into the body. Unlike oral testosterone and estrogen pellets, bio-identical hormones are absorbed rather than swallowed.

They reduce osteoporosis

Bio-Identical Hormone Therapy (BHRT) can help prevent osteoporosis by slowing down bone turnover and increasing bone mineral density. It is made from hormones that are …

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