Popular Questions

How much does it cost to start Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy?

In most cases, $150 covers the cost of evaluation, saliva testing, and consultation. When the pharmacist feels the patient would benefit from additional tests, such as for cortisol levels, the cost will go up a bit. But altogether, you are not likely to pay more than $200.

Does it require a prescription?

Yes. Bio-identical hormones must be prescribed. Because the hormones are compounded, it is required that they be dispensed under a prescription. Our pharmacists will work directly with you and your doctor to monitor your progress and prescribe hormones according to your needs.

Does insurance cover bio-identical hormones?

This varies by insurer. An increasing number of insurance companies are seeing the benefit of natural hormones over synthetic hormones and are beginning to cover them in their policies. Some insurers will cover as much as $100 of the $150 it costs for your evaluation, saliva tests, and consultation.

How are bio-identical or "natural" hormones different from synthetic hormones, like Premarin?

Natural (or "bio-identical") hormones are identical in their molecular structure to the hormones found in your body. Synthetic hormones ARE NOT identical to the hormones found in your body. This difference affects the way that the hormones interact with your tissues as well as other hormones in your body. This can have wide ranging side effects, influencing the interaction, potency, and elimination of the hormones.

Are there adverse effects when using natural hormones?

As with any change in body chemistry, changes in hormone levels, even natural, can bring side effects. In the vast majority of cases, these symptoms are temporary.

For example, women seeking to alleviate symptoms of menopause will often come to us experiencing hot flashes, headaches, difficulty sleeping, and other symptoms. Upon beginning the natural hormone replacement therapy, some said that they experienced headaches during the first month of therapy but afterward had no problems. Others said they felt immediately relieved and experienced no adverse effects. The experience is unique to each patient.

To combat these symptoms, our pharmacists continually assess your symptoms and make adjustments to your regimen of hormones. For the majority of our patients, after 3 months of therapy and assesment, they were on a regimen that they felt alleviated all symptoms.

How long does it usually take to adjust to the therapy?

Because each patient is unique, the time for adjustment varies. We suggest allowing 3 months of assesment and therapy to alleviate all symptoms.

Are there certain people for whom bio-identical hormones are harder to balance?

Women who have had hysterectomies and women coming off of synthetic hormones can be a little more challenging to balance. However, we have been able to consistently help women in both categories.

Is BHRT just for treating menopause?

No. Because the effects of hormones are not limited to women dealing with menopause, we have helped women in all stages of life to deal with a variety problems. Common problems we address include acne, facial hair, skin conditions, diminished sex drive, lack of energy, insomnia, and more. These conditions can be the result of an imbalance in hormone levels and are not limited to women going through menopause.

Is there another name for this therapy?

The most common alternative name is "Natural Hormone Replacement Therapy" (NHRT). This name is more commonly used by patients whereas Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy seems more popular among doctors and pharmacists.