Human Medicine

Hormone Replacement Therapy

CareFirst Specialty Pharmacy compounds custom hormone preparations using plant-based natural hormones — tailored to the right dosage strength and combination for each patient's specific symptoms, whether for menopause, andropause, or other hormonal decline.

Plant-based hormonesCustom formulationsPatient-specific dosing

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Hormone Replacement Therapy

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a treatment used to balance progesterone and estrogen in women during menopause. It can help relieve symptoms associated with menopause including hot flashes and sweating, and can also reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Testosterone is used in hormone therapy in men who see a decline in their levels as they age. Testosterone is necessary for:

Reproductive function
Sexual development
Maintaining bone density
Maintaining healthy levels of red blood cells
Building muscle bulk

HRT treatments are also used in treating individuals undergoing a sex change.

Estrogen Therapy

Estrogen comes in several forms with pills being the most common. The patch is worn directly on the skin and is replaced every few days. There are low dose patches available used only to reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Topical gels, sprays, or creams are absorbed through the skin and into the bloodstream similar to the patch. Vaginal estrogen comes in either tablet, lotions, or vaginal rings. This form of treatment is used to treat itchiness, vaginal dryness, and pain and burning with intercourse. Typically, vaginal rings are replaced every three months, and tablets and creams can be used daily.

Combination Therapy

Combination therapy uses progestin, estrogen, and progesterone to lower their risk for cancer of the lining of the uterus. Progesterone not only is a form of birth control, but it also treats menopausal symptoms. Most physicians treat their menopausal patients with natural progesterone instead of synthetics. There are no negative side effects on lipids making it an ideal choice for women with high cholesterol. Hormone replacement therapy is not recommended for those with the following health conditions:

Cancer
Heart disease
Liver disease
Blood clots
Heart attack
Pregnancy
Stroke

HRT Side Effects

Possible side effects of hormone replacement therapy include:

Vaginal bleeding
Bloating
Breast tenderness or swelling
Nausea
Headaches
Mood changes

Why consider HRT?

The only way to know if hormone replacement therapy is right for you is to consult with your physician. Your doctor will review your medical history to determine the best options for you. If you are a good candidate for HRT, our compounding pharmacy can consult with your physician to create a custom preparation that is perfect for treating your exact symptoms.

Symptoms for Females May Include:

Change in menstrual cycle
Hot flashes and/or night sweats
Trouble sleeping
Vaginal dryness
Loss of libido
Mood swings
Weight gain

Symptoms for Males May Include:

Low energy
Decreased muscle mass
Low libido
Increased body fat of the upper and mid-section
Mood changes
Trouble sleeping

How we compound

Our pharmacy can compound hormone preparations to help replace the declined hormones and relieve those symptoms. Since no two people are alike, CareFirst Specialty Pharmacy can compound custom preparation for a specific patient’s symptoms. Our preparations are compounded with plant base natural hormones to the right dosage strength and combination.

Our pharmacy understands the importance of working with prescribers and this relationship is the foundation of our service. Our well-trained team will work with you and your prescriber to provide personalized and professional service. We look forward to the opportunity to work with you and your prescriber.