Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
What is hormone replacement Therapy (HRT)?
Hormone replacement therapy means simply that natural hormones are being replaced as a form of therapy. The need for HRT can arise from any number of medical conditions including menopause, hypothyroidism, & adrenal fatigue to name a few. For the last 50 years, HRT has referred specifically to the use of synthetic hormones given to menopausal women to control symptoms of menopause. It was widely accepted in the medical community that HRT worked to prevent heart disease, keep women’s skin and brains youthful, and prevent osteoporosis all with few side effects.
What are bio-identical hormones?
Bioidentical hormones are identical to the hormones that are normally manufactured by our endocrine system, principally the ovaries, including estrogen, progesterone and testosterone. Production levels of these hormones declines with age as the ovaries stop releasing eggs and menstruation ceases (menopause). The term “bioidentical” means that the biochemical structure of the hormone is exactly identical to the hormone produced in a woman’s body.
How are bioidentical hormones different from synthetic versions?
Synthetic hormones have a chemical structure that is just slightly different from hormones produced naturally in the human body. This slight difference is intentional because natural/bioidentical hormones cannot be patented. Because of this, pharmaceutical companies had to develop synthetic, also called “conjugated” estrogens and progestins in order to patent their product. Synthetic hormones are manufactured from equine hormones derived from the urine of pregnant horses. Premarin (short for pregnant mare’s urine) has been around since the 1950’s and has been used by millions of women to treat menopausal symptoms.
Is bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) safer than synthetic HRT?
Studies conducted in Europe suggest that the answer to this question is yes. The widespread trend promoting the use of bioidentical hormones rather than synthetic hormones is rooted in the fact that they are natural and can be metabolized as the body was designed to do. Most of the studies done to date involve the use of synthetic hormones with little or no mention of bioidentical hormones. However, small scale studies have indicated that bioidentical hormones are safer than, and as effective as, (patentable) synthetic hormones. Additionally, the FDA has permitted the marketing of approved bioidentical hormones in standardized formulations. However large trials to conclusively establish the apparent advantages of bioidentical hormones have yet to be conducted.
Are bioidentical hormone formulas individualized? How are they administered?
Yes, bioidentical hormones are formulated specifically to your body. They are made in a compounding pharmacy that customizes hormone preparations for each individual patient. You will need a current well woman exam including PAP. Next, you will undergo simple laboratory testing to assess your current hormone levels. From this information, Dr. Lee will determine the best formula to complement your specific hormone levels. A prescription is then sent to the compounding pharmacy and you’re individualized formula is prepared and sent to you via mail. Bioidentical hormones must be taken on a regular basis and are administered by cream, pill, suppository, or injection.