Bioidentical hormones are synthesized in a laboratory, from chemicals extracted from plants, including yams and soybeans. They are biologically identical in molecular structure and behave just like the hormones your body produces. They are primarily marketed to women as a safe and effective alternative for the treatment of menopausal symptoms, but they are also prescribed to men for aging hormonal issues. By perfectly balancing your hormone levels, they are touted to make you look, feel and act younger and protect you from some of the effects of aging.
Identification
Bioidentical hormones are available individually or in combinations. They can be prescribed in precise doses uniquely designed for you, based on your blood and saliva test results and the symptoms you are experiencing. You take only what you need to maintain optimal hormone levels. They are formulated in compounding pharmacies, which specialize in the design of drugs that are not commercially available.
Methods
Because our bodies are able to recognize and utilize bioidentical hormones so readily, “their effects are more consistent with our normal biochemistry, with less chance for unpredictable side effects at low replacement doses,” according to Christiane Northrup, M.D., and author of “The Wisdom of Menopause.” They can be taken orally or transdermally via liquid drops placed strategically on the skin where they are absorbed directly into the bloodstream. This method delivers quicker relief of the symptoms associated with aging.
Benefits for Men
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy is available for men as well as women. During andropause, the male version of menopause, hormones such as testosterone, DHEA and growth hormone all experience a decrease in production. This leads to shrinking muscles, decreased stamina and weaker erections, all signs of aging that can be addressed with hormone therapy.
Considerations
If you are considering bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, keep in mind that it is not a one-size-fits-all approach. The downside is that several months of blood and saliva testing may be required as the dosage is fine-tuned to match your personal needs. Often insurance will not cover these expenses. You will be an experiment of one. The more experience your physician and pharmacy have with bioidentical hormones, the easier this process may be.
Misconceptions
In the University of Houston Law Center's Health Law Perspective, Bruce Patsner, M.D., J.D., states that “there is virtually no data to support many of the Internet claims being made for bioidentical hormones.” Furthermore, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the Endocrine Society have gone on record for years stating that "the health claims being made for bioidentical hormones have no firm evidentiary basis."
Warning
Compounding pharmacies are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, which may be a safety concern. Potency and purity is not being monitored by an outside agency. In addition, package inserts describing health risks and side effects are required for FDA-approved drugs, but not for compounding pharmacy products such as bioidentical hormones, despite the potential for serious adverse effects. This can mislead consumers into believing that the hormones are safe and have no side effects
References
- Harvard Medical School: What Are Bioidentical Hormones?
- University of Houston Law Center Health Law Perspective: Bioidentical Hormone Therapy
- "The Wisdom of Menopause"; Christiane Northrup, M.D.; 2006
- "Ageless"; Suzanne Somers; 2006
