Although we rarely think about them, the glands of the endocrine system and the hormones they release influence almost every cell, organ, and function of our bodies. In fact, research over the years points to declining hormone levels as a key factor in the aging process, and is responsible in large part for decreased energy and muscle strength, loss of libido, depression, mood swings, inability to cope, and an increase in the symptoms of PMS and menopause. As men and women undergo these hormonal changes, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is frequently necessary and beneficial for supporting good health as we age.

When HRT went mainstream over fifty years ago, the focus was primarily on supplementation of women’s hormones. Research and development of synthetic and equine hormones since the 1940’s has provided the basis for most references on HRT. Based on this research, the medical community has approached conventional HRT by relying on a variety of “synthetic” estrogens and progestins products that come only in one-size-fits-all doses. While this therapy has worked for some women, many others have found that it has no effect at all, or worse yet, have found they cause a host of unpleasant side effects. Many women who start on HRT ended up going off it a few months or a few years later because of the side effects. In hindsight this should come as no surprise, since the chemical structures of these medications are not identical but only similar to what the body naturally produces. Furthermore, the one-size-fits-all approach does not accurately address every woman’s unique hormonal profile and needs.

Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) attempts to restore a “bio-identical” hormone balance through the use of plant-derived hormone precursors that are modified to become structurally identical to those found in human beings. By reestablishing a “natural” hormonal balance, BHRT helps alleviate the symptoms caused when the body’s hormone production decreases with age. It also confers the many protective benefits provided by naturally occurring hormones. Because bio-identical hormones are molecularly identical to those the patient naturally produces, many women experience fewer uncomfortable side effects with BHRT as compared to synthetic hormone replacement.

When discussing hormone replacement therapy most people think it is reserved solely for women. However, men also experience hormonal and physiological change with age just like women. Andropause, also known as male menopause, is more gradual than that experienced by women, but it is just as real. Over the past 5 to 10 years the practice of HRT has become as routine for men as for women. Maintaining adequate levels of testosterone in the body is critical to many systems to include muscle and bone health, cardiovascular health, stamina, sexual health and mental function.

At Economy Drugs, we recognize and respect your individuality as a man or women. We know that your hormone profile is as unique as your fingerprint, and you will not experience hormonal changes in exactly the same way as someone else.

Our approach to the BHRT is based on our dedication to providing a one-on-one, private and professional consultation including a review of every aspect of your hormonal health. This consultation may be accompanied by hormone-level assessment and monitoring combined with appropriate recommendations for customized doses of bio-identical hormones. These therapies are tailor made in our in-house compounding lab. We recognize and promote the important contribution of healthy lifestyle choices and proper nutritional supplementation to hormone balance so we also provide additional information and education for these areas of concern.

At Economy Drugs, our pharmacists are experts in the field of Bio-identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT). Over the years they have worked alongside patients and their doctors making thousands of BHRT recommendations and have been very effective in helping patients balance their hormones and thereby improving their health and well-being. We believe the key to our program’s success is based upon our desire and willingness to listen to our patients and provide truly unique solutions to their individual needs.

Please take a moment to browse through the rest of the information we’ve provided on Bio-identical Hormone Replacement Therapy. Our pharmacists suggest that you first consult with your physician if you decide to pursue BHRT. If you would like to speak with one of our pharmacist about BHRT please call (828)692-4266.