What is the difference between
natural and synthetic hormones?
The term "natural" hormones
simply means that these hormones are
chemically the same as the ones the
human body produces. They are also
called "bio-identical" or "human iso-molecular."
"Synthetic" hormones refers to those
manufactured with a chemical
structure that is foreign to the
human body but mimics some hormonal
activity. An example of natural
hormones would be Estriol, Biest,
Triest, Progesterone, Testosterone,
and DHEA. An example of synthetic
hormones would be Premarin, Prempro,
Climara, Estratest, Estratab, and
all birth control pills.
Why do natural hormones require
a prescription?
Natural hormones can only be
obtained from a compounding
pharmacy. Compounding or formulating
a customized dosage for an
individual person is a function a
pharmacist performs only with the
permission of the physician. All of
the ingredients may not be
prescription, however anything that
is compounded must be prescribed.
Where do these hormones come
from?
Natural hormones are obtained
from sterol analogues found in many
varieties of plants, primarily
soybean and yam. The estrogen and
progesterone powder is transformed
chemically from the plant into the
human bio-identical hormones.
How do I get started on natural
hormones?
Natural
hormone replacement therapy must be
customized for each woman. Only
after a thorough review of her
symptoms and history can an
effective regimen be designed. You
may contact one of our hormone
consultants if you are interested.
She will, in conjunction with your
physician, develop a treatment
regimen designed just for you. This
recommendation will then be faxed to
your physician for his or her
approval, after obtaining the
approval of the physician your
medication will be custom made for
you.
What is the cost of the
medicine?
The cost varies depending on your
particular needs, however if you do
not have insurance the cost of the
medicine is typically around $40 per
month.
Does insurance cover natural
hormones?
Most insurance companies do cover
natural hormones, and at Olympia
Compounding Pharmacy we accept all
major insurance plans. We will work
very hard to maximize your insurance
benefit.
What are the possible side
effects?
Ideally, there are no side
effects since the hormones are given
with the intention of restoring
normal hormone levels. Side effects
occur only if one hormone is out of
balance with the others. It is
important to realize that if you
experience side effects a simple
adjustment will be made to stop the
side effects. Our consultants are
here to help you and to adjust your
medicine until you feel like your
old self again.
