Natural bio-identical hormones have the same chemical structure as hormones that are made by the human body. Neither natural bio-identical hormones nor testosterone should be confused with synthetic derivatives or “anabolic steroids.”

Bio-identical hormones are natural to humans while synthetic derivatives are not.

Unfortunately, the term “testosterone” is often used interchangeably to encompass natural testosterone, bio-identical hormones, and synthetic derivatives such as anabolic steroids. It is anabolic steroids, not bio-identical hormones, that have been used by athletes and body builders alike and which have caused disastrous effects, including heart problems and cancer.

Natural bio-identical hormones can help balance hormone levels in men and women. The key to natural or bio-identical versus synthetic is the molecular structure of the hormone. In order for a replacement hormone to fully replicate the function of hormones which were originally naturally produced and present in the human body, the chemical structure must exactly match the original.

Structural differences that exist between synthetic or animal and human hormones can be responsible for side effects that are experienced when non-bio-identical hormones are used for replacement therapy. It is the structure of the hormone, not the source, that is key.

The term “bio-identical” does not indicate the source of the hormone, but rather indicates that the chemical structure of the replacement hormone is identical to that of the hormone naturally found in the human body. Bio-identical hormones are chemically processed from precursors found in yams or soy plants, yet they are identical to the hormones produced by the human body; hence the term “bio-identical plant-derived hormone.” These hormones are able to follow normal metabolic pathways so that essential active metabolites are formed in response to hormone replacement therapy. Synthetic “patented,” “conventional,” “artificial,” or “horse” hormones have been chemically altered, and are not identical in structure or activity to the naturally occurring hormones they are intended to replace.

The chemical structure of a natural substance is altered so that the manufacturer can patent a synthetic product. A patented drug can be profitable to mass produce, and therefore, a drug company can afford to fund research as to the medication’s use and effectiveness. However, bio-identical substances can not be patented, so scientific studies are less numerous on these natural hormones, as medical research is frequently funded by drug companies.

When used in natural hormone replacement therapy, bio-identical hormones offer men and women fewer side effects than synthetic derivatives. They also protect against heart disease, reduce the risk of breast cancer in women, and improve cholesterol and lipid profile for both genders.

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South River Compounding Pharmacy
Southside: 2300 Robious Station Circle, Midlothian, VA 23113
West End: 3656 Mayland Court, Richmond, VA 23233
Serving the Greater Richmond, Virginia area, including Chesterfield, VA, Hanover, Henrico, Powhatan