HORMONE THERAPY FOR MEN
Symptoms of testosterone deficiency affect approximately 1 in 200 men and may include:
- weakness
- fatigue
- reduced libido
- osteoporosis
- depressed mood
- loss of energy
- erectile dysfunction
- aches and pains
This condition is commonly referred to as “Andropause”.
A man may be considered hypogonadal at any age if total testosterone is less than 200 ng/dl, or bioavailable testosterone is less than 60 ng/dl. Basaria and Dobs of Johns Hopkins University recommend that elderly men with symptoms of hypogonadism and a total testosterone level < 300 ng/dl should be started on hormone replacement. Read more …
HORMONE THERAPY FOR WOMEN
Structural differences exist between human, 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. Naturally-occurring substances can not be patented, so scientific studies are less numerous on natural hormones.
Natural hormones include estrone (E1), estradiol (E2), progesterone, testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), and pregnenolone. Our compounding pharmacists work with patients and practitioners to provide customized hormone therapy that provides the needed hormones in the most appropriate strength and dosage form to meet each woman’s specific needs. Hormone 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 adjustments are essential. Read more…