The molecule of a “bioidentical” hormone is just that. It has the same chemical structure to the hormone found naturally in the body. Synthetic hormones, on the other hand, are synthesized in a lab and have similar structures, but are not identical to that which the body makes naturally. The terms can be confusing as bioidentical hormones are also synthesized but from natural sources like yams or soy. The important distinction is whether or not the body recognizes the hormone as its own (as with bioidentical hormones) or foreign (as with synthetic hormones).

It is important to remember that although some synthetic hormones have similar names and functions as their bioidentical hormone counterpart (synthetic: Provera/Medroxyprogesterone vs. bioidentical: Progesterone), they are indeed entirely different. A multitude of studies have demonstrated many harmful effects of synthetic hormones whereas the medical literature and the passage of time supports no harmful effects of natural/bioidentical hormones.

The process begins with a consultation to discuss your specific needs. Our staff will order a complete, comprehensive blood panel to determine exactly what your hormone levels are and what added hormones are required. During the consultation, a treatment plan is devised between the patient and the staff. 88MED offers injections and pellets for men, and pellets for women. Injections go directly into the bloodstream, and pellets are inserted beneath the skin and dissolve over time. Our goal is to make sure you are comfortable with the procedure, thereby giving you the best chance of getting the full benefits.

The cause of hormone-related issues like Menopause and Low-T is an imbalance or a lack of certain hormones. Your body requires certain hormones in certain set amounts in order to function at full strength. By introducing bio-identical hormones to the body, hormone replacement therapy seeks to rebalance your body’s hormone levels and thereby lessen and ultimately alleviate your symptoms.

For women suffering from a lack of estrogen, that means the reduction of symptoms such as anxiety, depression, mood swings, hot flashes and low libido. It also means better sleep, reduced bloating and vaginal dryness and the halting of hair loss.

For men who experience low testosterone, hormone therapy can increase your energy, concentration, memory, strength, and libido while decreasing weight gain and joint pain.

Results vary from patient to patient, as each will have their own unique hormone levels and their own prescribed treatment. Generally speaking, patients will begin to feel benefits within only a few weeks. Dr. Jackson will work with you to bring your hormones to an optimized state.

There are several natural options from plant and herb sources in health food stores. However, the food/nutrition store products typically are of a dose that is so low that it doesn’t require a prescription nor will it produce the wanted effect in the body. The products from the compounding pharmacy require a prescription and are of pure pharmaceutical grade.