( 2 5 3 ) 3 4 3 - 0 1 0 9

Women’s Health

Hormone Replacement Therapy for Women

Structural differences exist between human, and synthetic and animal hormones. In order for a replacement 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. There are significant differences between hormones that are natural to humans and synthetic or horse preparations. Side chains can be added to a naturally-occurring hormone to create a synthetic drug that can be patented by a manufacturer. A patented drug can be profitable to mass produce, and therefore a drug company can afford to fund research as to the medication's use and effectiveness. However, naturally-occurring substances cannot be patented, so scientific studies are less numerous on natural hormones, because medical research is usually funded by drug companies.

Natural hormones include estrone (E1), estradiol (E2), progesterone, testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), and pregnenolone. Our compounding specialists work together with patients and prescribers to provide customized hormone replacement therapy that provides the needed hormones in the most appropriate strength and dosage form to meet each woman's specific needs. Hormone replacement therapy should be initiated carefully after a woman's medical and family history has been reviewed. Every woman is unique and will respond to therapy in her own way. Close monitoring and medication adjustments are essential.

Hormone Replacement Therapy for Women: Confusing Research

The findings of numerous studies on hormone replacement therapy (HRT) conflict and, as a result, have raised serious questions regarding the appropriateness of HRT. Hormone replacement is an approved therapy for relief from moderate to severe hot flashes and symptoms of vulvar and vaginal atrophy. Numerous studies have confirmed that estrogen replacement decreases the risk of colon cancer, estrogen and progesterone decrease fracture risk, and various hormones increase energy levels and enhance libido. Reputable sources offer conflicting reports regarding issues such as memory, Alzheimer's disease, and stroke.

Many patients and medical professionals are unaware of the availability of alternatives. In reality, women's experiences and clinical outcomes of HRT differ vastly depending on the dose, dosage form, and route of administration, and also the type of hormone that is used. As a result of concerns and doubts generated by studies that use synthetic hormones, many women who could substantially benefit from customized hormone replacement may never have the opportunity.

Published research delineating the differences between natural and synthetic HRT is now more abundant, but studies of natural HRT will probably never be as plentiful as those dealing with patented synthetic hormones. Our pharmacy welcomes your questions.