Bioidentical hormones are substances that have the same chemical structure as hormones that are naturally produced in the human body, (body identical). They are derived from plants, and are matched to exactly mimic the original human hormone.They are often used as a form of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to address hormonal imbalances, particularly in conditions such as menopause or andropause. Here are some reasons why bioidentical hormones are used:

Similarity to Natural Hormones:

• There are significant structural differences between hormones that are natural to humans (bio-identical) and synthetic (including horse) preparations. Side chains are scientifically added to a natural substance to create a synthetic product that can be patented by a manufacturer. These structural differences that exist between human, synthetic, and animal hormones can be responsible for side effects that are experienced when non-bioidentical hormones are used for replacement therapy. Bioidentical hormones have a molecular structure identical to the hormones produced by the human body. This similarity allows for more effective integration and utilization in the body compared to synthetic hormones.

Individualized Treatment:

• Bioidentical hormone therapy (BHT) can be customized to meet individual needs. Physicians may tailor the treatment based on a person's specific hormone levels and symptoms, allowing for a more personalized approach compared to standardized synthetic hormone treatments. For this reason many rely on a Coumpound Pharmacy to formulate such  prescriptions frequently not available at a comercial pharmacy.

Potential Lower Risk of Side Effects:

• Some proponents of bioidentical hormones argue that these hormones may have a lower risk of certain side effects compared to synthetic hormones. Today’s women prefer natural hormones. In a survey of a nationally representative sample of 1,009 women aged 40 and older, 83% said they would prefer to use hormones that are similar to their own body’s hormones.

Diverse Delivery Methods:

• Bio-identical hormones include Estrone (E1), Estradiol (E2), Estriol (E3), Progesterone, Testosterone, Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), and Pregnenolone. Custom preparations of BHRT using micronized powders in a variety of dosage forms such as oral capsules, sublingual troches or tabs, transdermal cream or gel, vaginal or rectal suppositories. This allows for flexibility in choosing a delivery method that best suits an individual's preferences and needs. Estrogen and testosterone are used transdermally, this delivery system assures a first bypass of the liver, thus decreasing the possible risk of clots and the potential increase in blood pressure associated with oral therapy.

• They are metabolized in the body in a way similar to naturally occurring hormones. This may result in a more natural and balanced hormonal environment.