What are bio-identical hormones, or as some refer, natural hormone replacement, and are they safer than pharmaceutical hormones?
“Controversies continue,” says Dr. Randy Birken, founder of Birken Medical Aesthetics, “but when you study the scientific data, you know your patients are better off.”
Bio-identical hormones are made from plants and are biologically identical to human hormones. Synthetic hormones can be derive from plants as well as animals, but are still different than natural hormones.
“I remember when I switched my wife from Prempro to bio-identicals,” Dr. Birken continues, “and just a few days later, she felt different.”
As patients age, there is a decrease in both reproductive as well as metabolic hormones. Testing includes estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, thyroid, and adrenal levels. The clinician interprets the data along with the patient’s clinical presentation, and prescribes appropriate hormone replacement.
“I have had many patients tell me that bio-identical hormones have changed their lives,” Dr. Birken said. “Usually, the patient experiences more energy, better sleep, improved mental functioning, easier weight loss, younger appearing skin, as well as bolstered libido. It can be a new lease on life.”
While scientific data suggests that bio-identical hormones maybe safer than synthetic, it is not conclusive. Since the body recognizes these molecules as natural instead of foreign, intuitively they appear to be a better choice for those suffering from hormone deficiencies.
The pharmaceutical industry promotes synthetic hormones because they can be patented for profit. While compounding pharmacies that make bio-identical can be more expensive than synthetic, the improved overall quality of life is worth it. Recently, Oprah Winfrey has presented to her audience the concept that bio-identical hormones may be a better alternative to synthetic.