Hi everyone, 2015 is now well and truly upon us and I hope the year has started with a bang for all of you.
What Is It?
Compounded hormones are similar to bioidentical hormones; the key difference is that these are custom mixed at special pharmacies that offer compunding services. Bioidentical hormones are set in their structure to replicate natural hormones produced by your body and require no customisation of any sort.
You only require compounded hormones to be customised if you need specific dosages or combinations of hormones that are not standard or easily available, and this will only be determined by your doctor. It may also only be needed if your doctor wants to prescribe hormones not specifically approved for you, for example testosterone supplements for women.
 |
| Compounded hormones may be able to target your health problems more effectively (pic from swfhealthandwellness.com) |
It is important to note that although pharmacies that create compounded hormones may use ingredients of products that are approved by the FDA, the completed compound is not; neither is the compounding regulated by an authoritative body.
Is It Safe?
When it comes to hormone replacements, there is no one size fits all solution for every single health complication you may be facing. Compounded hormones may be able to better treat your specific condition due to its exact dosage and ingredients, but do be aware of the potential risks
As each compound is mixed upon order, there is no prior history to refer to nor safety procedures or tests beforehand. There is no record of its dosage consistency or whether it is effective or not. It may or may not have more side effects than regular bioidentical hormone replacements, but there is no way of finding out until you actually take it.
 |
| It may be wise to consider other options before opting for compounded hormone therapy (pic from southeastidahooralsurgery.com) |
There are also a myriad of claims that are for and against the use of compounded hormones, none of which have been distinctively proven. Although this can be taken to be a good sign, there is also the potential for previously undocumented complications to turn up which may affect your overall health. This may also play into the hands of health insurers, as not all of them cover compounded hormones so be sure to double check with your existing insurance provider if this is the case.
So What’s the Conclusion?
In short, compounded hormones are a calculated risk that you must weigh up before choosing to go ahead with treatment if your doctor recommends it. However, there is no need to dismiss it completely as long as you can accept that there is a chance that it may not work out. In many surgeries, there is always a chance that it may not be successful and on a smaller scale, compounded hormones pose that same risk.
 |
| An experienced medical professional may be able to craft effective compounds (pic from mssociety.ca) |
If your doctor is highly experienced in this field of hormone replacement therapy, you may want to take your chances. However if there are other readymade bioidentical hormone replacements out there that can address your situation, you should opt for those since those are regulated and the effects are proven. Think of compounded hormones as a potential option if regular hormone therapy is not working out for you.
Until next time, stay healthy!
We value your privacy and would never share your information.
