At the Plateroti Center we have been using bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) for nearly 15 years. And we've found that women feel their best when they're informed about their options so they can decide what works for them. So let‘s explore what we've learned about bioidentical hormones and help you answer that basic question for yourself.
What are “bioidentical hormones”?
Bioidentical hormones are manufactured in the lab to have the same molecular structure as the hormones made by your own body. By contrast, synthetic hormones are intentionally different. Drug companies can’t patent a bioidentical structure, so they invent synthetic hormones that are patentable (Premarin, Prempro and Provera being the most widely used examples).
Though bioidentical hormones have been around for years, most practitioners are unfamiliar with them. There are several branded versions now available for use in the kind of hormone replacement therapy (“HRT”) typical of synthetic hormones. This is generally a one-size-fits-all dosage regime.
In our practice, we have had the greatest success with an individualized approach. We begin with laboratory tests of hormone levels (a so-called “hormone panel”). When warranted, we then prescribe a precise dosage of bioidentical estrogen, testosterone or DHEA that is made up at a compounding pharmacy. Each patient is then monitored carefully through regular follow-up hormone panels to ensure we get symptom relief at the lowest possible dosage. In the initial stages, we will do a hormone panel every three months. Once balance is restored, we’ll do one panel a year at the time of the annual exam.
Are bioidentical hormones better than synthetic hormones?
We long ago concluded that the answer to this question is yes. But that doesn’t mean bioidentical hormones are perfect.
The great appeal of bioidentical hormones is that they are natural, and our bodies can metabolize them as it was designed to do, minimizing side effects. Synthetic hormones are quite strong and often produce intolerable side effects. Moreover, the compounded bioidentical hormones can be matched individually to each woman’s needs — something that’s just impossible with mass-produced products.
Are bioidentical hormones safer than synthetics?
European medical studies suggest that yes, bioidentical hormones are safer than synthetic versions. This makes perfect sense. But we must be cautious here, because they have not been well-studied, especially for long-term use. And in any case, we never recommend that a woman think of any drug as completely safe.
Let us note here that the WHI studies on the effectiveness and health risks of HRT were based on synthetic/equine-based hormones.
What does The Plateroti Center recommend?
The great majority of women can rebalance their hormones without the use of drugs. We have found that about 85% can find relief through an approach that combines medical-grade nutritional supplements, gentle endocrine support, and dietary and lifestyle changes. We recommend that every woman start with this combination approach as a foundation of health.
Even with this foundation, a minority of women will need to add prescription-strength hormone supplements to get complete relief, at least through a transition period. We recommend they use bioidentical hormones, preferably in a compounded form personalized to their needs by an experienced practitioner. It’s important that the hormones be used in addition to the combination approach.
More on HRT:
The FDA declared that since bioidentical hormones are considered to be natural, regardless of their source, they cannot be patented. Therefore, there are no huge drug companies out there really profiting off the use and sale of bioidentical hormones.
Endocrine glands make chemicals called hormones and pass them straight into the bloodstream. (Glands that pass their secretions down tubes or ducts to particular places are called exocrine glands'.) Hormones can be thought of as chemical messages. They communicate with the body and bring about changes. Usually, hormones take effect quite slowly. The endocrine system works with the nervous system and the immune system to help the body cope with different events and stresses.
A RANGE OF FUNCTIONS:
Some of the roles of the endocrine system include:
Growth
Repair
Sexual reproduction
Digestion
Homeostasis (constant internal balance).
HOW HORMONES WORK:
A hormone will only act on a part of the body if it fits. A hormone can be thought of as a key, and its target site (such as an organ) has specially shaped locks on the cell walls. If the key (hormone) fits the lock (on the cell wall), then the hormone will work. The endocrine glands get feedback from the body so they can adjust the hormones and keep them at the right levels.
THE GLAND:
The glands of the endocrine system include:
Pituitary gland - is inside the brain. It oversees the other glands and keeps hormone levels in check. It can bring about a change in hormone production somewhere else in the system by releasing its own stimulating' hormones. The pituitary gland is also connected to the nervous system via part of the brain called the hypothalamus.
Thyroid gland - is inside the neck. It controls the rate of metabolism.
Parathyroid glands - is inside the neck surrounding the thyroid gland. They control the level of calcium in the bloodstream.
Adrenal glands - are on top of each kidney. They make a number of different hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol in times of stress, and sex hormones.
Pancreas - an organ of digestion, which is inside the abdomen. It makes insulin, which controls the amount of sugar in the bloodstream.
Ovaries - are inside the female pelvis. They make female sex hormones like estrogen.
Testes - they are in the male scrotal sack. They make male sex hormones like testosterone.
EXAMPLES OF EXOCRINE GLANDS:
Glands that secrete straight to a target site via ducts or tubes are called exocrine glands. Some examples include:
Salivary glands
Sweat glands
Sebaceous glands.
COMMON PROBLEMS:
Some common problems of the endocrine system include:
Diabetes - too much sugar in the blood caused by problems with insulin production.
Premenstrual syndrome - symptoms include cramping, bloating, breast tenderness and mood swings.
Thyroid problems - when the gland is overactive (hyperthyroidism) or underactive (hypothyroidism).
Things to remember
Endocrine glands secrete hormones straight into the bloodstream.
Hormones help to control many body functions, such as growth, repair and reproduction.
The pituitary gland inside the brain oversees the endocrine system.
Hormonal issues can cause serious side effects when they are out of balance. Several different types of hormonal treatments are discussed below:
PROGESTERONE (BIO-Identical):
This hormone is secreted by the ovaries and is of equal importance to women. It is used in nature to balance the effects of estrogen. Natural progesterone allows women to feel much better than they do on any of the synthetic progestins and it is less likely to cause the side effects of synthetic products such as bloating, swelling, breast tenderness, bleeding, irritability and depression.
Studies show Micronized Bio-identical Progesterone May Protect Against:
− Uterine Cancer
− Breast Cancer
− Osteoporosis
− Fibrocystic disease
− Ovarian Cysts
− Symptoms associated with PMS, Mood swings, abnormal bleeding, bloating, headache, fatigue, weight gain, & depression
ESTROGEN (BIO-Identical):
Estrogen is a hormone produced by the ovaries. There are three basic forms of estrogen: Estradiol 10-20%, estrone 05-20%, and estriol 60-80%. Of the three, estradiol is the most physiologically and biologically active. Bio-identical Hormone Replacement is comprised of either two (Bi-est) Estradiol and Estriol or all three estrogens (Tri-est) using a bio-identical formula that your body recognizes as it would it's own. Topical Estriol face cream (0.6% to 1.5%) is used to treat Hirsutism, excess facial hair around lip, jaw and neck in women.
Studies show Micronized Bio-identical Estrogens May Protect Against:
− Strokes
− Osteoporosis (increases osteoclasts)
− Alzheimer's disease
− Urinary tract atrophy
− Vaginal dryness & atrophy
− Poor body fat distribution
− Symptoms of menopause, Memory loss, insomnia, mood alterations, decreased libido, & depression
COMPOUNDED THYROID (BIO-Identical):
The thyroid gland is considered "Metabolism Central". This butterfly-shaped gland effects energy regulation in every cell, organ and tissue in the body. It regulates temperature, metabolism, and cerebral function. It also increases carbohydrate, lipids, and proteins breakdown resulting in weight loss as well as lower cholesterol. Compounded thyroid medication supplements T-3 as well as T-4, corrects deficiencies of Thyroid hormone and return you to optimal levels.
Thyroid hormone is known to protect against:
− Fatigue
− Low body temperatures
− Colds and other viruses
− Weight gain
− Dry skin
− Headaches
− Depression and mood swings
PREGNENOLONE (BIO-Identical):
Pregnenolone is a hormone that keeps our brains working at peak capacity. Research has shown that pregnenolone improves memory, mental function, concentration and overall well-being. Pregnenolone should be prescribed in a sustained release micronized form to assure adequate absorptions and more importantly assures a pure grade supplementation devoid of any contaminants.
Pregnenolone is a Precursor to other Hormones
− Improves cellular repair
− Enhances memory and learning
− reduced PMS symptoms
− Boosts immune function
− Decreases lipofusion deposition
− Protects cerebral function
− Protects against neuronal injury
− Can be used to treat inflammatory disorders
DHEA (BIO-Identical):
Dehydroepiandrosterone, or DHEA, is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands. The most tremendous effects seen from DHEA are based on its ability to stimulate protein systhesis from the cell, which in turn results in an increase in cell regeneration. This regeneration forestalls the disease process. DHEA should be prescribed in a sustained release, micronized form, which allows for complete absorption as well as a sustained level for a 24-hour period.
DHEA is known as a Natural Antioxidant that may:
− Restore Immunity
− Improve Memory
− Improve Energy
− Slow the aging process
− Positively affect depression and anxiety
− Improve psychological and physical aspects of sexuality
TESTOSTERONE FOR MEN (BIO-Identical):
This hormone is primarily considered the male hormone. As this declines with age, there are health and appearance problems that accompany this loss. A "natural" form of testosterone is simply called micronized and may be prescribed in topical or oral formulation.
Studies report men may experience:
− Increased bone density, formation, minerals
− Increased energy
− Improvement in sexual function
− Decreased body fat
− Increased muscle strength
− Decreased heart disease
TESTOSTERONE FOR WOMEN (BIO-Identical):
Healthy women naturally produce small amounts in the ovaries. It helps control a women's libido and also may be known to enhance the functions of estrogen.
Studies report women adding prescription ordered testosterone may experience:
− Enhancement of sexual drive
− Relief of menopausal symptoms
− Restoration of energy
− Strengthening of bone
− Prevention of osteoporosis
− An Improvement of an overall sense of well being
− Prevents wrinkles and increases collagen and elastin
MELATONIN (BIO-Identical):
This major hormone is produced in the Pineal Gland and helps to set your "bio-logical" clock for wake/sleep cycles. Melatonin is a natural hormone that helps regulate the rhythm of sleep as well as the deep stages. This causes you to sleep more soundly and improve the function of your immune system
Prescription strength Melatonin is known to:
− Improve your quality of sleep
− Control body temperature
− Improve kidney function
− Boost immune function
− Slow the aging process |
