Bio-identical hormone pellets offer a naturally balanced, steady release of hormones that are molecularly identical to those produced by your body. While bio-identical hormones have been approved and available for use in the United States since 1939, their popularity has been slow to increase due to corporate greed. Thankfully, however, advanced technology now allows us to place time-release pellets of approved human hormones in the fat under our skin to deliver more youthful hormone levels directly into the bloodstream.
On this page, we explore what bio-identical hormone pellets are, how they work, and the significant benefits they offer – ranging from enhanced energy and improved sleep to better mood and increased vitality. Whether you want to combat the signs of aging or simply live a more balanced life, bio-identical pellet hormone therapy under Dr. Richards’ expert guidance may be the key to unlocking a healthier, more vibrant you.
Bio-Identical vs. Non-Bio-Identical Hormones
Bio-identical hormones have the exact same chemical structure as hormones that are made by the human body. The difference between natural (or bio-identical) versus synthetic (or non-bio-identical) is in the molecular structure (shape) of the hormone. In order for a replacement hormone to fully replicate the function of the hormone that we naturally produced, the chemical structure must exactly match the original. It is the structural differences that exist between human bio-identical and non-bio-identical hormones that are responsible for side effects and health risks that occur when non bio-identical hormones are used by humans.
So Why Are Non-Bio-Identical Hormones Used At All?
In brief, corporate greed and profit.
Mass production of non-human type hormones by drug companies is very profitable, despite their serious health issues and potential side effects. Since bio-identical hormones are naturally produced in humans, they cannot be patented regardless of their source. Therefore, large drug companies cannot significantly profit off of their use and sale. The pharmaceutical industry’s main hormone drugs are produced by using animal hormones (often collected from pregnant mare urine) to create products that are structurally different than human hormones and yet bind to human receptors – in most cases, much too strongly. For instance, PREMARIN® binds to human estrogen receptors almost 20 times more strongly than natural estrogen.
Conversely, bio-identical hormones (especially well studied testosterone) have not been shown to have any serious side effects. The benefits of bio-identical hormones have proven significant for those with deficiencies (something that most people will experience at some point in their lives).
Why Pellets?
The goal of bio-identical hormone replacement therapy is to provide an adequate supply of a deficient hormone in a form that is molecularly identical to that which your body produces. Logically, this should result in the hormone’s normal healthy physiologic effects being restored. While many delivery methods exist, pellets stand out for several compelling reasons.
Bio-identical hormone testosterone pellets are obtained in various strengths from a highly rated commercially licensed compounding pharmacy. The hormones are derived from an ingredient found in many vegetables, including yams and soybeans (the pellets used in our office are yam-based). These pellets are extremely small and usually painless to insert, and generally provide a steady hormone level for months.
Oral hormone supplements, on the other hand, are largely inactivated by the liver before they can reach your circulation. In fact, any estrogen or testosterone-like drug taken by mouth should be considered NOT bio-identical. Similarly, Dr. Richards does not recommend creams or injections, as these often result in fluctuating blood levels and inconsistent absorption.
What Are the Goals of Bio-Identical Pellet Hormone Therapy?
Goals of bio-identical hormone replacement therapy include:
- Alleviation of the symptoms caused by decreased production of hormones (e.g. sleep problems, mood swings, increased body fat, decreased libido and sexual function, hot flashes, night sweats, anxiety, etc.)
- Re-establishing the protective benefits which were originally provided by higher levels of your naturally occurring hormones (such as bone density, cardiovascular health, immune function, balance, etc.)
- Reversal of diseases associated with aging (namely osteoporosis, loss of strength, fatigue, exercise intolerance, decreasing muscle mass, mental clarity, etc.)
- Enhanced enjoyment, sense of wellbeing, and long-term quality of life
Though uncommon, patients as young as 25 (such as and those with PCOS or severe PMS) as well as men and women in their 70s or older, have seen wonderful benefits from this therapy.
“*Since starting BHT pellets, I have my joy of life back, my family back, and best of all…my husband back!”
What Does the Bio-Identical Pellet Hormone Therapy Process Entail?
Because every patient is unique, Dr. Richards customizes each bio-identical pellet hormone treatment process according to his or her individual symptoms and hormone levels. The precise dosage and timeline will be determined after consultation and evaluation of laboratory blood tests, and may be adjusted if needed. It should also be noted that the course of treatment for women and men will be slightly different.
Moreover, please understand that bio-identical pellet hormone therapy is not a replacement for regular health care. It is still vitally important that you continue to see your regular medical doctor for your usual check-ups, tests, and routine health maintenance.
Other Supplements
There can be nutritional deficiencies encountered in the bio-identical pellet hormone therapy patient that may affect effectiveness. Examples include iodine and other trace mineral and vitamin deficiencies. If this is suspected, Dr. Richards may recommend inexpensive non-prescription supplements.
To learn more about bio-identical pellet hormone therapy or schedule a consultation with Dr. Mark Richards, please contact us today.