If a woman must take hormone replacement therapy to ease the symptoms of menopause, she should take the lowest possible dose, for the shortest period of time.
What are bio-identical hormones?
Bio-identical hormones, or human identical hormones, have the same chemical structure as hormones that are made by the human body. The key to natural or bio-identical vs. synthetic is the molecular structure of the hormone. To fully replicate the function of hormones which were originally naturally produced and present in the human body, the chemical structure must exactly match the original.
Synthetic vs. bio-identical hormones
Researches have long held that there are significant differences between hormones that are natural to humans (bio-identical, or human identical) and synthetic (including animal derived) preparations. Structural differences that exist between synthetic or animal and human hormones may be responsible for side effects that are experienced when non bio-identical hormones are used for replacement therapy.
Goals of Bio-identical HRT
Alleviate the symptoms caused by the natural decrease in production of hormones by the body
Re-establish a hormonal balance
The goal of any form of hormone replacement therapy should be to provide an adequate supply of the deficient hormone in a form that is as close to possible to that which the body originally produced, therefore resulting in normal physiologic effects. Every person is unique. Therefore, it is a sensible approach for health care professionals and patients to work together to customize hormone replacement therapy. At NutriChem Pharmacy, Bio-Identical HRT can be compounded in the needed strength and dosage form and administered via the most appropriate route to meet each individual's needs. The precise components of each person's therapy need to be determined after laboratory testing using NutriChem's BCB test, medical history and symptoms are considered. Close monitoring is essential to ensure that the appropriate adjustments are made. If a woman must take hormone replacement therapy to ease the symptoms of menopause she should take the lowest possible dose for the shortest amount of time.
Bio-identical HRT for Women
(Available by prescription only)
References
[1] JAMA Jan,18, 1995, 273(3); 199-208
J Am Coll Cardiology 36(7), December 2000; 2154-9
Nature Medicine 3(3): 324-7
J Am Coll Cardiology March 1, 1997
NIH; Women's Health Initiative Randomized Controlled Trial (2002)
Estrogen and Progesterone
Progesterone: Frequently Asked Questions
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