What is Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)?
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy, or BHRT, is the replacement of the bodies normal hormones with natural, plant derived hormones that are identical to what the human body already produces. Through BHRT, we are able to replace the hormones that that body now lacks due to age, menopause, hormonal imbalances or fluctuations, or a number of other scenarios, such as a hysterectomy.
Many practitioners feel that bioidentical hormones are a better choice than using hormones that are synthetically derived, or derived from horses. Some examples of hormones that we work with include Estradiol, Estriol, Progesterone and DHEA.
Why would a patient receive Bioidentical Hormone Replacement (BHRT)?
As we age and experience life, the levels of our bodies hormone production tend to drop, or undergo extreme fluctuations. For women, this is often due to decreased production of Progesterone, Estrogens and Testosterone and DHEA. In men, this is often seen as a decrease in Testosterone.
As the body undergoes these hormonal changes. Many women often report symptoms such as hot flashes, insomnia, night sweats, difficulty concentrating, decreased energy levels and decreased libido.
In men, we see changes such as decreased energy, decreased libido, and difficulty concentrating or focusing. Many of these signs and symptoms can be traced back to hormonal imbalances. Luckily, these hormonal changes can easily be diagnosed and corrected by replacing the hormones that have been depleted and correcting hormonal imbalances!
How can I obtain Bioidentical Hormone Replacement (BHRT)?
Bioidentical hormones are only available by prescription from a licensed practitioner, such as a physician, physicians assistant or an ARNP. Once obtaining a prescription, a compounding pharmacist, like those at Trinova Health, would prepare the prescription for you based on your practitioners exact orders.
What dosage forms of Bioidentical Hormone Replacement (BHRT) are available?
Because every patient we help is unique, BHRT can be tailor made to suit each patient’s individual needs. Many patients prefer to use BHRT transdermally via a cream that is typically applied to a thin area of skin, such as your forearms, once or twice daily.
We can also prepare oral capsules, sublingual lozenges, vagical creams and vaginal suppositories. We’ll work with you and your practitioner to find the best dosage form to suit your needs.
Does my insurance company cover Bioidentical Hormone Replacement (BHRT)?
Some insurances do cover the cost of compounded BHRT therapy, while others may only pay a portion of the costs. In such instances where an insurance company doesn’t provide coverage for your medication, Trinova Health will work with you and your practitioner to determine a cost-effective treatment option for you.
Our goal is to never see a patient have to forego treatment due to cost concerns, and we’ll do everything we can to prevent that from happening.
How does my practitioner know what dose is right for me?
Your healthcare provider will take many factors into account prior to prescribing you Bioidentical Hormone Replacement (BHRT). Some of these factors include your age, weight, family history, gynecological history, and most importantly, present symptoms into account prior to initiating therapy.
My physician would like to start me on Bioidentical Hormone Replacement (BHRT), but doesn’t know where to start. Can you help?
Absolutely! Our clinical compounding pharmacists have years of experience in the proper dosing and treatment of hormone imbalances and can work with you and your healthcare practitioner to design a treatment plan that is geared specifically towards you. Simply have your provider contact us, and we’ll take care of the rest.
DISCLAIMER
Trinova Health is a licensed pharmacy that only engages in compounding in response to a practitioners prescription. A written prescription from a licensed practitioner is required for compounded medication. The information on the site is general in nature and is only intended for use as an educational tool.
You should consult your physician or a Trinova Health pharmacist if you have any specific questions relating to the diagnosis and treatment of any health problems.
Information and statements about products and health conditions have not been evaluated by the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA), nor has the FDA approved the products to diagnose, cure or prevent disease.
