Uses and Benefits of Bioidentical Progesterone
By: Amber Hannah, Pharm.D. Candidate 2021
Bioidentical hormones are man-made hormones that act quite simfilarly to the hormones made in the human body. This does not mean “natural”, but it is “structure” that is similar. They are used to treat men and women that have low hormone levels, menopausal symptoms, or out of balance hormones. Many people have been in search of finding a more natural approach to hormone replacement therapy, so bioidentical hormones can be that option for them. Hormones that are made are estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. Some of these hormone forms are prescription, and others are custom-made by a pharmacist via doctor’s order, which is a compounded medication.
Bioidentical Progesterone vs. Synthetic Progesterone
Bioidentical progesterone is made to act like the hormones made in the body. Synthetic progesterone does not always act like the progesterone made in the body. Bioidentical is sometimes called “micronized natural progesterone”, which means breaking down progesterone into small particles to allow for steady absorption derived from a plant source. Bioidentical progesterone and synthetic progestins are structurally dissimilar and functionally different because it is chemically indistinguishable from progesterone in the body.
Compounded Progesterone Dosage Forms
Pills, Creams, Gels, Sprays, Vaginal inserts.
Benefits of Bioidentical Progesterone
Progesterone has a great impact on function and quality of life. It supports pregnancy, helps regulate skin, mood, sleep, function of the thyroid, and libido. Because of the identical replication to progesterone, there are reduced side effects and risks, and there is enhanced effectiveness in treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the signs of low progesterone?
Some signs of low progesterone include decreased libido, hot flashes, migraines/headaches, depression, anxiety, irregular menstrual cycle, breast soreness, vaginal dryness
How long can you stay on bioidentical hormones?
It varies patient to patient depending on treatment goals, conditions, and medical history.
Will bioidentical hormones help me lose weight?
With hormone imbalance, weight gain is prone to happen, but when given bioidentical progesterone, that can help promote weight management.
When should I take my progesterone?
Usually taken at bedtime and should be taken continuously as directed by doctor
References
Bioidentical hormones. Cleveland Clinic website. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/15660-bioidentical-hormones . Updated December 12, 2014. Accessed November 19, 2020.
Low progesterone symptoms. HealthyWomen website. https://www.healthywomen.org/your-health/low-progesterone-symptoms . Updated March 17, 2017. Accessed November 19, 2020.
Use and benefits of compounded progesterone. Harbor Compounding website. https://www.harborcompounding.com/uses-and-benefits-of-compounded-progesterone#:~:text=Bioidentical%20progesterone%20has%20strong%20anti,women%20with%20intake%20of%20progesterone . Updated April 26, 2019. Accessed November 20, 2020.
Sood R, Shuster L, Smith R, Vincent A, Jatoi A. Counseling postmenopausal women about bioidentical hormones: ten discussion points for practicing physicians. J Am Board Fam Med. 2011;24(2):202-210.
How long can you take hormone replacement therapy safely? BodyLogicMD website. https://www.bodylogicmd.com/blog/how-long-can-you-take-hormone-replacement-hrt-safely/ . Updated February 5, 2019. Accessed November 24, 2020.
How bioidentical progesterone benefits women after menopause. BodyLogicMD website. https://www.bodylogicmd.com/blog/how-bioidentical-progesterone-benefits-women-after-menopause/ . Updated January 29, 2019. Accessed November 24, 2020.
Progesterone. Medline Plus website. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a604017.html . Updated April 15, 2016. Accessed November 24, 2020.
