Bioidentical Hormones

Melatonin is a hormone secreted from the pineal gland in the brain. It is largely responsible for controlling the body’s biological clock and sleep-wake cycle. Melatonin levels rise in darkness and fall in the presence of light. Its’ main uses include prevention /relief of jet-lag, sleep quality improvement, bone protection, anti-ageing, it has good anti-oxidant properties and nurtures the immune system. Melatonin also has a calmative effect, due partly to the offset of cortisol production, a stress hormone.

Melatonin levels decrease naturally with age and production may be affected with low mood or anxiety. 

Thyroid extract (aka Armour thyroid), is a natural preparation derived from the thyroid gland of the pig. It is used to supplement an underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism), which may be due to a variety of causes. The hormone contains both T3 and T4 (as well as T1 and T2) and functions to mainly increase metabolic rate, promoting carbohydrate, protein and lipid metabolism. By restoring thyroid hormone levels in the body with carefully monitored dosing, people will experience increased energy levels, loss of excess body fat and a greater sense of well-being.

7-Keto DHEA is converted to 7-keto DHEA in the body, this form of the hormone being 2.5 times more potent than DHEA itself. 7-keto DHEA enhances the immune system, increases the metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids and proteins to promote weight loss. It has also been trialled in the treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease.

Pregnenolone is referred to as the ‘mother of all hormones’ and is often combined with other hormones to improve cognitive activity, memory and alertness as well in the management of menopausal symptoms in general. Pregnenolone has also been used in the treatment of arthritis and various autoimmune disorders. 

Oestrogen is the collective term, describing the three forms found in the body. The most predominant form of oestrogen is Oestriol, which is a product of Oestrone metabolism. It is most abundant in young women, accounting for approximately 80% (and possibly more) of oestrogen in the body. Oestriol is the least aggressive of the oestrogens, offering protective effects against breast cancer and is often used to treat vaginal atrophy(shrinkage) and to offer moisture to the vaginal tissues during and after menopause. Oestrone accounts for about 10% of oestrogen in the body and is valuable in promoting the formation of new bone tissue, though this form of oestrogen is rarely used in replacement therapy. Oestradiol makes up the remaining 10% and assists with the management of menopausal symptoms. Often a combination of Oestriol and Oestradiol (known as ‘Biest’) is prescribed. The dose will depend upon the existing levels of hormones and the amounts required to balance and manage your symptoms.

• Menopausal symptoms,
• Pre-Menstrual Syndrome (PMT/PMS)
• Post-partum depression (mild) Baby-blues,
• Benign cystic breast disease
• Reduced bone density
• Fertility problems and other menstrual disorders

Progesterone is also found to have

• cancer-protective properties in the breast and endometrium (uterine lining).
• stimulates osteoblasts, which are the cells responsible for bone formation.
• balances disrupted or painful menstrual cycles and the symptoms that accompany these
• has a calming effect and it aids the the other physical, emotional and cognitive (memory and learning) changes that result from reduced hormone levels.

Testosterone is the primary male hormone but is important in women too. Produced by the ovaries abs adrenal glands.  It is often added into a hormone replacement regime to improve libido, reduce anxiety, increase energy levels, muscle tone and general well-being in both women and men. It is also beneficial in lowering cholesterol levels and enhancing bone formation.

T3 (Liothyronine) is often prescribed for individuals who have less efficient pathways in the conversion of T4 to T3. Compounded in a slow release form and dosed in micrograms (mcg) not milligrams (mg).

DHEA is a hormone normally found in reasonably high levels in the body. With age or prolonged stress or illness, DHEA levels often are lowered. By replenishing levels of DHEA, energy levels and immune function are enhanced. The hormone also improves stress adaptation, elevates mood, libido and general well-being. It has a cholesterol lowering benefit, may help prevent clot formation and slow the rate of bone loss.

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