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WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN BIO-IDENTICAL AND SYNTHETIC HORMONES?
The term "natural" hormones simply means
that these hormones are chemically the same as the
ones the human body produces. They are also called "bio-natural" or "human
iso-molecular." "Synthetic" hormones
refers to those manufactured with a chemical structure
that is foreign to the human body but mimics some hormonal
activity. An example of bio-identical hormones would
be Estriol, Biest, Triest, Progesterone, Testosterone,
and DHEA. An example of synthetic hormones would be
Premarin, Prempro, Climara, Estratest, Estratab, and
all birth control pills.
WHY DO BIO-IDENTICAL HORMONES REQUIRE A PRESCRIPTION?
Bio-Identical hormones can only be obtained from a
compounding pharmacy. Compounding or formulating a
customized dosage for an individual person is a function
a pharmacist performs only with the permission of the
physician. All of the ingredients may not be prescription,
however anything that is compounded must be prescribed.
WHERE DO THESE HORMONES COME FROM?
Bio-Identical hormones are obtained from sterol analogues
found in many varieties of plants, primarily soybean
and yam. The estrogen and progesterone powder is transformed
chemically from the plant into the human bio-identical
hormones.
HOW DO I GET STARTED ON BIO-IDENTICAL HORMONES?
B hormone replacement therapy must be customized
for each woman. Only after a thorough review of her
symptoms and history can an effective regimen be
designed. You may contact one of our hormone consultants
if you are interested. We will, in conjunction with
your physician, develop a treatment regimen designed
just for you. This recommendation will then be faxed
to your physician for his or her approval, after
obtaining the approval of the physician your medication
will be custom made for you and our physician.
WHAT IS THE COST OF THE MEDICINE?
The cost varies depending on your particular needs,
however if you do not have insurance the cost of
the medicine is typically around $120.00 per month.
WHAT ARE THE POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS?
Ideally, there are no side effects since the hormones are given with the intention of restoring normal hormone levels. Side effects occur only if one hormone is out of balance with the others. It is important to realize that if you experience side effects a simple adjustment will be made to stop the side effects. Our consultants are here to help you and to adjust your medicine until you feel like your old self again.
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