- Immediate-release capsules
- Compounded to dissolve without delaying or prolonging absorption, therefore the onset of effect is faster. However, it may require multiple doses throughout the day.
- Slow-release capsules
- Compounded to dissolve over time in order to be released slower into the bloodstream while having the advantage of being taken at less frequent intervals
- Oil-filled capsules
- Oral liquid suspensions
- May take with food or right after a meal to prevent stomach upset
- Apply on clean skin, ideally after shower
- Apply on slightly fatty skin (not too much and not too little fat). Ideal sites will vary with body types. Common locations are the inside of the upper arm or the inside of the upper thighs (if the thighs are not too heavy).
- Rotate application sites
- Apply about an area the size of a small plate for topical dose prescribed can cover as much skin as possible
- Rub in well for at least one minute
- Wash hands after application to prevent possible transfer of hormone to other people or pets
- Commonly used for women with vaginal dryness, painful sexual intercourse, urgency/frequency, and urinary tract infections
- Vaginal creams/gels:
- Insert and/or apply on the external genitalia
- Vaginal suppositories/capsules:
- Insert inside genitals
- Recommended to use at bedtime when you are moving less, to prevent leakage
- Vaginal applicators are recommended for intravaginal use
- NOTE: Applicators are provided with your Rx
- Application – The best positions to apply are to either lie on your back with your knees bent, or you can stand with your knees bent and your feet a few inches apart
- Gently insert the applicator into vagina as far as it will comfortably go and press the plunger as far as it goes. Then, remove the applicator.
- Applicators are reusable. May wash with soap and warm water.
- Make sure to wash hands right away
Lozenges (Troches)
Lozenges can be placed between the cheek and gum or underneath the tongue. When drugs are absorbed this way instead of swallowed, they bypass going through the stomach. This often allows a more complete absorption and quicker onset for the drug to work. The downside is the taste of the drug, which can often be bitter. We use sweeteners and flavors to help make it the best it can be.
Rapid Dissolve Tablets
Rapit Dissolve Tablets or RDTs are placed on the tongue and dissolve rapidly, giving a quicker onset than a capsule that must be dissolved in the stomach before absorption.
Like with lozenges, the taste of the drug cannot always be completely masked.
How are Hormones Dosed?
- Generally, your physician will start on low doses and adjust slowly
- BHRT is not one-size-fits-all. Every patient is different.
- Efficacy can be improved by changing timing of application and/or route of administration
- Compliance is most important. Do not adjust the dosage without supervision.
- Hormone testing is critical because symptoms of different imbalances overlap. Too much of a hormone can create the same symptoms as too little. Therefore, validating each hormone independently is very important. Regular hormone testing is necessary to review and adjust doses accordingly
Why use Bio-identical Hormone Replacement Therapy?
Bio-identical Hormone Replacement Therapy utilizes drugs that have identical chemical structures as what is found in the human body. This differs from synthetic medications that can hold higher risks for complications.
Town & Country Compounding provides Bio-identical Hormone Replacement Therapy customized specifically for each patient. Upon taking a saliva test, the patient’s results can be assessed and T&C Pharmacists can consult with the patient and set up a therapy regimen.
