About BHRT

Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) involves using hormones that are chemically identical to those naturally produced by the body to alleviate symptoms associated with hormonal imbalances or deficiencies. At Avrio Pharmacy, we offer customized BHRT solutions to help manage conditions such as menopause, andropause, and thyroid imbalances. Our compounded BHRT treatments are tailored to meet your individual needs, ensuring you receive the right balance of hormones to improve your overall well-being.

Administering Your BHRT

Follow Prescribed Instructions: Always adhere to the dosage and administration guidelines provided by your healthcare provider. BHRT can be administered in various forms, including:

Capsules: Take by mouth with water as directed, following the directions by your provider. 

Drops: Sublingual drops (for use on the tongue) may be a good solution if other dosage forms don’t best fit your needs. 

Topical Creams/Gels: Apply to clean, dry skin as specified, typically once or twice daily. Topical dosage forms may be preferred as they may lower the risk of certain side effects of oral hormone replacement therapy. Common application sites include the inner wrists, inner arms, or inner thighs. Always apply as directed by your provider.  

Lozenges: Dissolve either under the tongue (sublingually) or between the cheek and gum (buccally), as directed by your provider. Lozenges can be flavored to improve the taste of this dosage form.  

Injectable: Administered via injection, often intramuscularly, based on the provider’s instruction. Progesterone, Estradiol, and Testosterone injections are the most common. 

Vaginal Cream/Gel: Applying small doses of estrogen may help relieve vulvovaginal atrophy (the drying and thinning of the vaginal lining).  Often applying vaginally using a vaginal applicator or applying directly to the labia.  

Understanding Your BHRT Dosage

Customized Dosing: BHRT dosages are tailored to individual needs based on hormone levels, symptoms, and response to treatment. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dosage and form of BHRT for you.

Regular Monitoring: Dosages may be adjusted based on regular monitoring of hormone levels and symptoms to ensure optimal effectiveness and minimize side effects.

 

Typical Dosages:

Estrogens: Doses may vary based on individual needs, symptoms, and lab results. Common estrogens used in compounding are estriol (E3), estradiol (E2), biest (combo of estriol and estradiol)

Progesterone: Commonly prescribed in oral doses of 100 to 200 mg daily, depending on individual requirements. Often providers will recommend taking oral progesterone prior to bed to help with any sleep disturbances. Progesterone therapy is recommended in patients with an intact uterus while receiving estrogen therapy, to prevent endometrial hyperplasia. Common compounded forms of progesterone are oral capsules, transdermal creams/gels, vaginal cream/suppository, and injectables.

Testosterone: Doses may vary depending on individual needs. Dosing for women is usually 10% of the dose for men but this can vary up or down depending on individual needs. Transdermal creams or gels are the most popular compounded dosage form by providers.

Common Ingredients Prescribed In BHRT:

  • Biest (Estriol/Estradiol combo) 
  • DHEA 
  • Estradiol 
  • Estriol 
  • Pregnenolone 
  • Progesterone 
  • Testosterone 

Explore BHRT FAQs!

BHRT is a treatment that uses hormones (one ingredient or a combination of ingredients) chemically identical to those produced by the body to address hormonal imbalances or deficiencies. It helps alleviate symptoms related to menopause, andropause, and other hormonal conditions.  

Follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider for the form of BHRT you are using. This may include oral capsules, transdermal creams or gels, sublingual drops, lozenges, vaginal creams/gels/tablets, or injectable hormones. 

Possible side effects vary depending on the active ingredients that are prescribed for your  BHRT medicationMake sure to review the medication information provided by the pharmacy and always consult with a pharmacist prior to first using a new medication. Some common side effects may include mood swings, weight gain, trouble sleeping, drowsiness, headaches, and nausea. Serious side effects are rare but should be reported to your healthcare provider immediately 

Regular monitoring is essential to ensure your dosage is effective and safe. Your healthcare provider will recommend how frequently you should have your hormone levels checked based on your specific treatment plan. Monitoring is typically more frequent early in therapy until you establish the proper ingredients and dose to manage your symptoms and well-being.  

compounding pharmacy and pharmacists