What Is BioTE?
BioTE® Medical Hormone Pellet Therapy is the first method of hormone optimization developed to provide sustained hormone delivery throughout the day. Administered in pellet form, this hormone replacement treatment mimics the body’s natural production and usage of hormones such as estrogen and testosterone.
By mimicking biology, BioTE eliminates the “roller coaster” effects that may be more common with delivery methods such as creams, patches, pills, and injections.
What Is Bioidentical Hormone Optimization Therapy?
Bioidentical hormones have been used since 1939, and are designed to match the biochemical structure of the hormones that are made in the endocrine system. The hormones are derived from plant-based substances and compounded to meet each patient’s unique needs. Since they are not synthetic, the body processes them naturally instead of having to go through the kidneys and liver.
What Can Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy Treat?
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy is designed to improve the numerous symptoms that result from hormonal imbalance. Symptoms such as hot flashes are often associated with women going through “the change” during which their hormone levels decline. However, men transition through their own mid-life biochemical changes. Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy provides a natural, tested solution for individuals for whom healthy lifestyle choices are not achieving maximum health benefits in terms of hormone optimization.
Studies suggest that bioidentical hormone therapy may also benefit people who have experienced altered hormone levels in response to cancer treatment.
In studies, BHRT has demonstrated efficacy in improving quality of life and general well-being of these patients. Some found relief from treatment-related side effects such as insomnia, decreased libido, and migraines.
Benefits Of Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy
Patients appreciate that bioidentical hormones are made using plant-based sources and that treatment is customized to their needs. Because hormones are absorbed from pellets inserted in a quick office procedure, there is no need to remember daily dosing. Treatment continues two to four times a year with the insertion of new pellets and repeat blood work as needed to ensure proper dosages are maintained.
Symptomatic benefits of bioidentical hormone replacement therapy include:
- Improved emotional balance
- Improved memory and alertness
- Regulated sleep patterns
- Fat loss and easier weight management
- Increased muscle mass
- Support for optimal bone density
- Regulated body temperature
- Possible slowing of hair loss
- Improved libido and sexual performance for both men and women
Causes Of Hormone Imbalances In Men/ Women
There are several reasons why hormones may deregulate in men and women. The most common is age. In women, we refer to this as menopause. Men experience the same age-related biochemical changes, referred to as andropause. Additionally, hormones may falter as a result of adrenal fatigue, hypothyroidism, or hyperthyroidism.
Symptoms Of Hormone Imbalances In Men/ Women
Many of the symptoms of hormone imbalance can affect both men and women, these include:
- Mood swings and irritability
- Low libido
- Muscle weakness and loss of muscle mass
- Increased weight, difficulty losing weight
- Persistent fatigue
- Insomnia
- Changes in bowel movements (constipation or increase)
- Heart palpitations
- Poor concentration and memory
- Night sweats
- Hair loss or thinning
Men may also experience physical changes such as gynecomastia (male breast tissue), erectile dysfunction, or other sexual performance issues.
Women may also experience urinary incontinence, vaginal dryness and itching, painful intercourse, breast tenderness, and hot flashes.
How Does Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy Work?
BioTE pellets restore optimal levels of estrogen and/or testosterone. Each pellet is smaller than a grain of rice. When inserted into the fatty tissue beneath the skin, pellets are gradually absorbed by the body. These hormones are used in the same way the body uses natural hormones produced by the endocrine system.
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy Procedure
BHRT treatment is conducted in the office in less than half an hour. The patient lies on their side and exposes the upper, outer quadrant of the buttocks. A local anesthetic is injected into the fatty tissue. After numbing occurs, a small incision is made in the skin. Using a small instrument, the doctor inserts the appropriate number of pellets to achieve the selected dosing of natural hormones. After pellets are in place in the subcutaneous tissue, a sterile dressing is applied over the small incision. This will remain over the treatment site for approximately one week.
How Long Does Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Take To Work?
Patients often begin to notice the effects of treatment within 4 weeks of pellet insertion. However, it can take up to 6 months for the body to reach maximum usage of the hormone or hormones that have been supplemented. After this time, the body will absorb and use what is needed and nothing more.
Side Effects Of Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy
There are virtually no side effects associated with bioidentical hormone replacement therapy due to the accuracy of dosing and physiologic similarity of absorption to naturally-produced hormones. A very small percentage of patients may experience mild facial hair, hair thinning, or acne.
Schedule A Consultation
We are pleased to offer bioidentical hormone therapy in our Holmdel, NJ office. To schedule your consultation for hormone optimization, call 732-888-8255. Consultations with one of our certified medical providers are covered by any of our accepted insurance plans. If you do not wish to go through insurance, patients will be charged a discounted rate. Pellet insertions, however, are not covered by insurance and will be charged at the time of insertion