Bioidentical hormones are hormones that are manufactured to have the same molecular structure as the hormones made by your own body. They produce the same physiological responses as those of endogenous (made in body) hormones. Premarin, Provera, and Prempro are synthetic hormones commonly used for hormone replacement therapy and are intentionally different than bioidentical hormones; drug companies cannot patent a bioidentical structure, but they can invent synthetic hormones that are patentable or a unique delivery system.
The appeal of bioidentical hormones is that they are identical to endogenous human hormones, so our bodies can metabolize them normally, minimizing side effects. Synthetic hormones are quite strong and often produce intolerable side effects such as weight gain. water retention, and extreme mood changes. In addition, synthetic hormones are mass produced products with little variation in dosage resulting in a “one dose fits all” whereas the compounded bioidentical hormones can be matched individually to meet each woman’s needs.
Compounding pharmacists can prepare plant derived bioidentical hormones from a physician’s prescription in a variety of dosage forms, strengths, and combinations that can be customized for each patient’s needs to improve the outcome of treatment and reduce side effects.
An experienced hormone expert such as myself recognizes a woman’s unique hormone status. Therefore, therapy is completely individualized using both symptom feedback and the latest hormone testing available to maximize benefits and minimize risk.
