ASK

I used Bioidentical Hormone Pellets. These are tiny pellets of estrogen and testosterone implanted under the skin in my hip every 3-4 months. It's a simple office procedure.

I was taking synthetic hormones prior to 2004. I tried to get off and couldn't because of the severity of hot flashes and night sweats. For 16 years I had almost zero libido.

After discussing the pellets with my doctor, who also has them, I decided to take the plunge. It was and is the best gift I've even given myself. My menopause symptoms are well in control. My libido sky-rocketed. I will never go without them again.

NJWhite

This topic is very confusing. I was on HRT for over 20 years and recently stopped b/c I am 62 (GYN's recommendation no HRT after 65.) But, I am having a hard time (and having a hotflash as we speak!!!) So my question is what about bioidentical estrogen? I know it is safer but would it be safe for me to use -- or are all forms of estrogen to be eliminated at my age?

And, what about the pellets? I read that is supposed to provide only a very low dose and is an on-demand delivery system releasing only what the body needs to be "in balance" (along w/ progesterone, testosterone, etc. if prescribed.)

I was also told by a pharmacist that two anti-depressants help w/ hotflashes and sweats, but I have not read about this at all online.

Let me know what you have learned regarding any of the above! I am trying to figure out what to do and who to see!

Thanks! Katharine in Phoenix

because I have too many other issues. So, hot flashes and senior moments are a part of life for me.

Your doctor should be your first resource; and don't be afraid to ask for more information on what the pharmacist mentioned.

A couple of articles on HRT research that may be of help:

http://empowher.com/content/making-sense-it-all-a-scientific-review-hrt-...
http://www.webmd.com/menopause/features/hrt-revisiting-the-hormone-decision

I just came back from an appt with a new dr. I told him that I had recently stopped taking Premarin. My old dr. said it was fine to take it and the studies were not that reliable. I was down to a small dose of 3.25. I have my ovaries, but have had a hysterectomy. The new dr. said I should not be taking the hormones but did not offer anything else. I have never heard of those pellets. I am 61. I have tried to quit the hormones several times before, but always caved in. This time I have to do it. I have some hot flashes, but also am very cold sometimes. The slightest stress, makes it worse. I guess I have no question, except is there anything else I can do for the hot flashes? I have no other problems except dry skin. My mind seems fine, but what was I talking about? oh, HRT.
I guess it does not matter how old you are, if you have been on HRT when you stop you will have symptoms. How long do they usually last?

Are they for older women as well? I am 61. Will I have to go through withdrawal again if I stop the pellets? I guess at my age I should just go natural.

I initially posted my issues back in May and am pleased to report fantastic improvement. I found Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine (http://www.scnm.edu/index.php) which has a teaching clinic located in Scottsdale, AZ and I went there in June. First you see 2nd & 3rd yr students then their supervising physician; the exam is detailed and thorough.

My flashes and sweats were diagnosed as severe and my hormone levels non-existent. I was prescribed very low doses of compounded bioidentical estrogen and progesterone, tincture of sage, and pharmaceutical grade black cohosh. I was told to be patient for results and come back in 5 weeks. At 4 weeks I noticed little change but in the 5th week miraculously my symptoms began to decrease. At my appt. the doc said my improvement was terrific since I was so severe. Dr. Marchese also said I would continue to improve.

Now in my 6th week, my symptoms are 50-75% improved and decreasing rapidly. I'm at around 5 flashes a day (down from 15-20) and most are mild to moderate w/ flashes of heat but little sweats and no more chills. This is fantastic!!!! My life is nearly back to normal and I am no longer sleep deprived.

Dr. Marchese (mar-kay-zee) explained (my interpretation) that the estrogen receptors in the blood vessels searched for estrogen when I stopped HRT (after >20 yrs) and when not found the flashes takes place. Then the thyroid says WOW! your are too hot and tries to cool the body rapidly through sweat. By introducing the low level of bioidentical estrogen my body has calmed down. Now over time, she explained demand by the receptors will decrease and I will slowly lose need to take hormones.

All I can say is God Bless SCNM! It is VERY affordable and they know their business. If you live in the area, do not hesitate to use this clinic. Meanwhile, thank you to all who answered my plea. I hope the above info will assist someone else to get back on the road to feeling better.

Peace!
Katharine

Katharine,
This is great news! I am so glad that your symptoms have decreased by 50-75%, and are still decreasing. You mentioned that you were prescribed bioidentical hormones, tincture of sage and black cohosh...and that your doctor said over time, your body's receptors will decrease their demand of estrogen needed, and you can decrease the amount of hormones you need to take.

This is great information for women, who (my interpretation!) seem to be told that their use of hormones, HRT, pellets, bioidentical hormones...whatever...is an "all or nothing" choice, and it is empowering to hear that we can make choices for ourselves now to help lessen symptoms, with the understanding that our body's needs will change, as will the prescribed "drugs". Thus, our choice now might not be the same choice we make in a few months, or few years.

How long is the "over time, the demand by your receptors will decrease"?

Can you explain what the tincture of sage and black cohosh are for? Can you tell a difference if you take all three in combination if one of these "drugs" are working and the others are not?

Again...great news!