Many men and women experience side effects when dealing with andropause, menopause and hormone imbalance. Unstable hormone levels can lead to chronic symptoms and disorders that can disrupt daily activity. Some of these symptoms include but are not limited to: unexpected weight gain, hot flashes, migraines, depression, difficulty sleeping, loss of libido, and fatigue in women and decreased libido, muscle mass, strength, and stamina, impotence, osteoporosis, heart disease, sleep disorders, depression, and anxiety in men.
Many hormone therapy products exist on the commercial market to help with symptom management. These products typically contain hormones that are synthetically modified or derived from an animal source (i.e. Premarin, Prempro, Estrace). Bioidentical hormones are the exact same structure as the natural hormones found in the human body. The primary hormone of importance in females is estrogen, which exists in three different forms in the body: estrone (E1), estradiol (E2), estriol (E3). Other important hormones include progesterone (P4), testosterone, and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). These substances may help restore natural balance in the body and may help alleviate chronic symptoms arising from imbalance.
Hormone testing:
There are many options available to test your hormone levels. McMahan Pharmacy will help you decide which testing method is right for you. If you have already been tested and need help with results, provide us with a copy and we will help you understand them.
Saliva testing:
Panels usually range from $170-$260, collections are done in the privacy of your own home and the number of samples varies depending on your needs.
The Comprehensive Plan (this plan is for men or women who want a ‘hands on’ approach to their therapy)
For a consultation, schedule a free discovery call today
By working with your medical provider, compounding pharmacies can create various compounded hormone replacement formulations that may include any combination E1, E2, E3, P4, DHEA, and/or testosterone to help manage your symptoms. Complete medical histories will be taken and evaluated to create a product that will help you manage any issues you might be experiencing. The amount of these hormones will be limited to mimic how they naturally exist in your body to ensure safety. Formulation examples include topical and vaginal creams, oral capsules, and orally dissolving or sublingual tablets. With sufficient monitoring, formulations can be adjusted to help relieve your most bothersome symptoms.
Men can also be affected by hormone imbalance. The primary hormone in men is testosterone. As age increases, testosterone levels decline and can lead to a condition known as andropause or more commonly “low-T.” Testosterone deficiency may lead to decreased concentration, lethargy, loss of libido, erectile dysfunction, and depression among other side effects.
McMahan’s Pharmacy can work with your medical provider to create supplemental testosterone formulations. These medications may be for oral or topical use. With proper monitoring and dosage adjustments, compounded testosterone formulations can help control symptoms associated with low-T in a safe manner.