Hormones
Interview with Carol Petersen RPh, CNP
We have medical groups…who have policy statements that bioidentical hormones and altered molecules are all the same. Anyone who has studied physiology and biochemistry has to know that this is a bizarre position.
Most reasons for hysterectomies can be tied to progesterone deficiencies and most could be avoided with rational supplementation.
The list of thyroid suppressants is as long as your arm.
[From the interview below with Carol Petersen]
We are the most complex and finely tuned beings that have ever existed.
Reductionism is the means to gain control over that complexity.
If I move this thing over here, then that thing over there will…
Surely, there cannot be a bigger lie than this.
There cannot be greater hubris.
The conductors of the symphony of life are hormones.
They, with their hubris, were always going to lie about hormones.
I haven’t written about this subject before, because frankly my ignorance about the subject has been as effectively constructed as the next guy’s.
But now that I have entered the chamber and looked around, I find all the usual artifacts.
Something that works and is helpful to many that is wrapped in layers of misdirection, lies, omissions and untruths. The usual stuff.
Something that, because of its utility, lives within a regulatory chokehold.
Something that has the potential to negate many downstream conditions that Cartel Medicine feeds on. It shrinks “markets”.
I thought a good way to open the door to this chamber within this Substack was to interview a subject matter expert.
As you will see from the detailed interview below, the untruths in this space are numerous:
Bioidentical and Synthetic Hormones are the Same: Misconception that bioidentical hormones, which are identical to human hormones, are the same as synthetic hormones.
BHRT Safety and Effectiveness Misunderstood: Belief that only FDA-approved BHRT is safe and effective, leading to doubts about other forms of BHRT.
Underestimating Hormones in Aging: Overlooking the importance of hormone balance in aging and overall health.
Hormone Therapy Effects Overgeneralized: Thinking all hormone therapies work the same for everyone, ignoring the need for personalized treatment.
Environmental Impact on Hormones Undervalued: Neglecting the significant influence of environmental factors, like chemicals and pollutants, on hormone balance.
Role of Compounded Hormones Confused: Misunderstanding about the effectiveness and use of compounded hormones in individualized therapies.
Hormones and Mental Health Connection Overlooked: Underestimating the impact of hormones on mental health and mood.
Overemphasis on FDA Approval: Belief that non-FDA-approved BHRT options are less safe or effective.
Misinterpreting Hormone Testing: Relying too heavily on lab tests without considering the full clinical context in hormone therapy.
I reached out to Carol Petersen and I am very grateful that she agreed to the interview. I especially appreciate the time and detail she put into the answers. It’s taught me quite a bit and I’m sure it will do the same for many others.
Note: Any errors in the footnotes are mine.
With thanks to Carol Petersen, RPh, CNP
Carol Petersen is an accomplished compounding pharmacist with decades of experience helping patients improve their quality of life through bio-identical hormone replacement therapy. She graduated from the University of Wisconsin School of Pharmacy and is a Certified Nutritional Practitioner. Her passion to optimize health and commitment to compounding is evident in her involvement with organizations including the International College of Integrated Medicine and the American College of Apothecaries, American Pharmacists Association and the Alliance for Pharmacy Compounding She was also the founder and first chair for the Compounding Special Interest Group with the American Pharmacists Association. She is chair for the Integrated Medicine Consortium. She co-hosts a radio program “Take Charge of your Health” in the greater New York area. She is on the Medical Advisory Board for the Centre for Menstrual Cycle and Ovulation Research (CeMCOR.ca).
Can you share your journey towards becoming a specialist in bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT)?
BHRT was not suddenly there. The beginnings start with Dr. Katharina Dalton1. She characterized and named PMS premenstrual syndrome in the 1950’s. The treatment was generous dosing of progesterone2, of course, a bioidentical hormone. Dr. Dalton practiced in England and her work eventually made it over the pond. In the US, injectable progesterone may have been available, but Dr. Dalton introduced using vaginal suppositories. Dr. Wayne Maxon and Dr. Joel Hargrove3 introduced using micronized progesterone in oil oral capsules. These were made available with compounding pharmacies and progesterone supplementation turns out to be very helpful. I began to work at Women’s International Pharmacy when compounding for PMS was just starting. Dr. Maxon and Dr. Hargrove can be credited with adding estradiol4 to progesterone for menopausal treatments. Sex and adrenal hormones are all made in the human body from cholesterol and soon making more hormones like estrone, estriol, testosterone, DHEA, hydrocortisone5 available gave us a whole palette of hormones to work with.
What inspired you to focus on compounding pharmacy and specifically on BHRT?
At first, I didn’t think I wanted to speak with women with PMS only day after day but to my surprise, this opened the door to the whole array of endocrine matters. After over 30 years I am still challenged with new information and insights.
How would you describe BHRT to someone who has never heard of it?
We reward drug companies for altering molecules. When a process to make progesterone semi-synthetically from diosgenin6 from wild yams was perfected by Russell Maker, drug companies used the same processes to alter the molecule of progesterone. The first was norethindrone7 which is still used in birth control pills today.
For the first time in human history, we have the means to top off our own hormones for many of them.
Perversely, we reward inventors for creating altered molecules and marketing to us that the altered molecules are even better. The truth is that the specific molecules that exactly matches our own biochemistry predictably does what we have learned those hormones do. An altered molecule which can never duplicate the same hormone activity.
In your experience, what are the most common misconceptions about BHRT?
We have medical groups such as the North American Menopause Society, the American College of Obstetrics and Gynaecology and even the Endocrine Society who have policy statements that bioidentical hormones and altered molecules are all the same. Anyone who has studied physiology and biochemistry has to know that this is a bizarre position. None the less, the scientific and medical literature overflows with confused language that promotes this position.
What distinguishes bio-identical hormones from traditional hormone therapies?
You may be thinking about the drug Premarin8, pregnant mare’s urine which was first FDA approved for vasomotor symptoms and then possibly effective for osteoporosis prevention. Because of marketing, Premarin became one of the best-selling drugs ever. There have been over 60 cholesterol like molecules identified in this dosage form making it impossible to measure all the consequences of taking even 1 tablet. In a private conversation with a drug company trainer, I learned that during development, pregnant women’s urine was first used. Because of cost, the company turned to baboons next and then finally horses. So, this has nothing to do with human physiology and everything to do about money.
Unbekoming: In reading about Premarin I’m reminded of the FDA’s warning:
You are not a horse. You are not a cow. Seriously, y'all. Stop it.
How has the field of hormone replacement therapy evolved over the years, particularly in relation to BHRT?
Compounding or preparing bioidentical hormones in various dosage forms by pharmacies opened the door to embrace the concept that women could be treated with individualized doses. The FDA has approved bioidentical products such as Prometrium9 (progesterone in oil filled capsules) or estradiol in gels and patches.
Can you explain the concept of 'estrogen dominance' and its significance in hormone therapy?
Dr John Lee coined this term. Estrogens can be normal, high or low but if there is not enough progesterone to balance, estrogen affects dominate. I think it is much more complex than that. I recently delivered a lecture on this.
What role do environmental factors play in hormone balance and imbalances?
This is a big problem. We have so many chemicals that are estrogenic. Insecticides, pesticides, glyphosate, heavy metal exposure all cause a greater demand for balance with progesterone and throw a wrench in our physiology.
How do you approach hormone testing and its importance in BHRT?
Here is a link to the review I wrote on various lab test offerings:
Testing for Steroid Hormones - The Wellness By Design Project
However, no test can predict the actual clinical outcome. For instance, what progesterone level in the serum, urine or saliva do you need to achieve to ensure that the uterus is “protected”? Only a vaginal ultrasound or a biopsy can verify that – not a lab test. Women are being told that they won’t feel well unless their serum level reaches a certain number. But this number only verifies that absorption has taken place and the longer the time lapse from the dose and the blood drawer means the number will be smaller. So what does that mean? 99% of monitoring hormone therapies is clinical. It is important to learn which hormone is responsible for what and adjust accordingly.
What is the 'establishment' medicine's position on BHRT, and how has it changed over time?
Conventional medicine clings to only FDA approved products. There are some bioidentical approved products. But then individualizing therapy can become difficult. In the case of testosterone supplementation for women, there are no FDA approved products. Compounded testosterone is the only option outside of using a smaller dose of an FDA approved product for men.
In your opinion, should more people consider BHRT as part of their health regimen?
We test cholesterol ad nauseum but neglect understanding and checking the whole endocrine system. Hormones can be deficient at any age and a failure to check and observe hormone deficiencies across the lifetime has created a lot of misery.
How does BHRT compare with other standard medical care solutions for hormone-related issues?
Bioidentical hormone supplementation can help restore a quality of life that is not often available in conventional medicine. As you stack up more and more drugs to address symptoms, you can only decline. The underlying problem of hormone deficiency is not addressed.
Can you discuss the relationship between hormones and mood/emotions as we age?
The sex and adrenal hormones that our body makes from cholesterol are also neurosteroids10 which are made independently inside the brain. Hormones affect learning, memory, mood and emotions directly. In the case of any mental health disorder, I’d recommend checking hormones first and supplement accordingly before committing to a drug regimen.
What are the risks and benefits of using progesterone in hormone therapy?
Progesterone should be absolutely wonderful when needed. There are some pitfalls to watch out for. I have written a blog describing these:
When Women Don’t Like Progesterone - The Wellness By Design Project
Underdosing and candida issues seem to come up the most. I also get questions about how much is too much progesterone. When we were all in utero we swam in a sea of progesterone. Women AND men. I also wrote a blog about too much:
You searched for too much progesterone - The Wellness By Design Project
Appropriate use of progesterone saves us from getting prescribed antianxiety drugs, antidepressants, antipsychotics, and sleep agents.
How does the oral microbiome interact with sex hormones, and why is this significant?
The oral and the larger gut microbiome are interrelated. Research suggests that the hormone affects can be bidirectional. The microbiome can shift with the hormone milieu, but gut organisms can produce hormones as well.
Could you shed light on the thyroid-hormone connection and its implications for health?
If you don’t have good adrenal function, thyroid activity is impaired. If you have excessive estrogen activity, thyroid is impaired. If there is excessive stress, thyroid activity is impaired. I just found this in Dr. Ray Peat’s11 work. He said that if your pulse rate was not in the 80’s (exceptions were highly trained athletes), you were hypothyroid. T3, liothyronine, is the active form of thyroid and is used by the mitochondria, the energy and heat producing organelles in our bodies. Dr. Broda Barnes12 “Hypothyroidism, the Unsuspected Illness” monitored body temperature to assess thyroid function. Also, according to Dr Ray Peat, progesterone and pregnenolone and coconut oil support the thyroid. The list of thyroid suppressants is as long as your arm.
What symptoms suggest a progesterone deficiency, and how is it addressed in BHRT?
Here’s another blog post addressing progesterone deficiency symptoms:
Symptoms of Progesterone Deficiency - The Wellness By Design Project
The importance of progesterone is often overlooked. Progesterone deficiencies can occur early in a lifetime. ADHD, PMS, PCOS, PMDD, Infertility, mental illness can all be manifestations. Most reasons for hysterectomies can be tied to progesterone deficiencies and most could be avoided with rational supplementation.
How does norepinephrine influence our health, and what is its relation to hormone therapy?
I’d add epinephrine or adrenal to that question. Dr. Michael Platt13 wrote a book called “Adrenaline” which describes the output of adrenaline in response to low blood glucose. I believe some of these blood glucose and adrenaline swings could be the underlying issue with vasomotor symptoms. Both estrogens and adrenaline depend upon methylation for detoxification. There are estimates that 40% of the population may experience methylation issues so sometimes it may be hard to shut adrenaline down. This could also be a source of anxiety and panic attacks. Progesterone is helpful in balancing adrenaline and primarily addressing the insulin/glucose hormones can help with this.
What should people know about the safety and effectiveness of BHRT?
Dr. Kent Holtorf14 compiled a good paper:
In the US, only the FDA is allowed to determine a substance to be safe and effective. So only the FDA approved BHRT can be said to be safe and effective. Compounded BHRT and non-prescription BHRT products are not allowed to claim safety and effectiveness. You can find claims in the literature that BHRT is NOT safe and effective. This is a sneaky way to introduce doubt in people’s minds. This simply means that the FDA has not evaluated compounded BHRT offerings and non-prescription products. Such evaluation by the FDA is neither legal or appropriate.
What are your views on the terminology and approach of Bio-identical Hormone Replacement Therapy, particularly in relation to the concept of balance in hormone therapy?
I would like to stress that BHRT should also be considered “Balanced Hormone Replenishment Therapy”. (Normally, we use “replacement” therapy, but this also implies that we substitute some other molecule to replace the function of our hormones.) A woman who uses estradiol only after a hysterectomy understands that she is using a bioidentical hormone. She will never feel okay without enough progesterone to balance that estrogen. If the ovaries are removed, then 50% of the testosterone production is gone, so testosterone should be supplemented too. That estradiol only causes the thyroid hormones not to work effectively. That unbalanced estradiol disturbs the insulin and glucose balance. It is essential that the interplay between the whole endocrine system be considered.
Finally, what advice do you have for individuals considering BHRT for healthy aging?
As you examine the functions of various hormones, you start to understand that many of the features that we identify as the aging process can be attributed to deficiencies of particular hormones. If you can imagine a shrinking elderly man or woman who is suffering from sarcopenia, you can easily diagnose a deficiency of the androgenic hormones such as DHEA, testosterone and growth hormone. Restoring hormones is a pillar of antiaging medicine.
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Dr. Katharina Dalton was a pioneering British physician who significantly contributed to the field of women's health, particularly in the study and treatment of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Her key contributions include:
Characterizing and Naming PMS: Dr. Dalton is credited with naming and characterizing premenstrual syndrome in the 1950s. She was one of the first medical professionals to recognize and describe PMS as a distinct medical condition, bringing attention to its symptoms and potential treatments.
Research on Progesterone: She conducted extensive research on the role of progesterone in women's health. Her work led to the use of progesterone in treating PMS and other menstrual-related disorders.
Promoting Progesterone Therapy: Dr. Dalton advocated for the use of progesterone therapy to alleviate the symptoms of PMS. Her research and clinical work provided a foundation for understanding the hormonal fluctuations and imbalances associated with menstrual cycles.
Authoring Influential Books: She authored several influential books on PMS and progesterone therapy, which helped to spread knowledge about these topics among both medical professionals and the general public.
Dr. Katharina Dalton's work was instrumental in changing the way the medical community and society viewed menstrual-related issues, advocating for a greater understanding and more effective treatments for women suffering from PMS and related hormonal imbalances. Her contributions laid important groundwork for subsequent developments in gynecology and endocrinology.
Progesterone is a hormone that plays a vital role in the human body, particularly in women's reproductive systems. Here are its key functions and characteristics:
Sex Hormone: Progesterone is one of the primary female sex hormones, alongside estrogen. While it is present in both males and females, its role is more pronounced in females.
Menstrual Cycle Regulation: In women, progesterone helps regulate the menstrual cycle. It is produced in the ovaries following ovulation each month and is essential for preparing the uterine lining for pregnancy.
Role in Pregnancy: If fertilization occurs, progesterone supports early pregnancy. It helps maintain a healthy uterine environment for the developing embryo and fetus. During pregnancy, the levels of progesterone significantly increase.
Supports Fertility: Progesterone is crucial for maintaining fertility. It stabilizes the uterine lining (endometrium), making it suitable for the implantation of a fertilized egg.
Balances Estrogen: Progesterone works in tandem with estrogen, another key female hormone. It helps balance the effects of estrogen in the body. This balance is crucial for the health of the reproductive system.
Other Functions: Beyond reproductive health, progesterone also influences mood, bone density, and other physiological processes. It has a role in regulating the immune system, thyroid health, and blood sugar levels.
Synthetic Forms in Medicine: Progesterone is used in various forms of hormone therapy, including birth control and menopausal hormone therapy. Synthetic versions, known as progestins, are often used in medications.
Bio-identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT): In BHRT, progesterone is used in a form that is chemically identical to the hormone produced naturally in the body. This approach aims to more closely mimic the body's natural hormone production.
Progesterone's role in the body is complex and multifaceted, influencing not only reproductive health but also various other aspects of physical and mental well-being.
Dr. Joel Hargrove was a notable figure in the field of women's health, particularly known for his work in hormone replacement therapy (HRT). His contributions are especially recognized in the context of menopause management and the use of bio-identical hormones.
Key aspects of Dr. Hargrove's career include:
Focus on Menopause and HRT: He was known for his work on menopausal issues and hormone replacement therapy, exploring the benefits and risks associated with HRT.
Research and Clinical Practice: Dr. Hargrove was involved in both research and clinical practice, helping to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application in patient care.
Advocacy for Bio-identical Hormones: He was one of the proponents of using bio-identical hormones in hormone replacement therapy. These hormones are chemically identical to those the human body produces, and Dr. Hargrove advocated for their use as a more natural approach to HRT.
Educational Efforts: Dr. Hargrove was known for his efforts to educate both medical professionals and the public about menopause and hormone therapy, contributing to a broader understanding of these topics.
His work has been influential in shaping contemporary approaches to hormone therapy, particularly in the context of treating menopausal symptoms with a focus on patient safety and well-being. Dr. Hargrove's contributions have helped advance the understanding and application of HRT in women's health.
Estradiol is a form of estrogen, which is a key female sex hormone. It plays a crucial role in the development and functioning of the female reproductive system and other body processes. Here are the main aspects of estradiol:
Primary Form of Estrogen: Estradiol is the predominant estrogen during the reproductive years of adult women. It is more potent than estrone and estriol, the other types of estrogens.
Reproductive Health: Estradiol is vital for the development and maintenance of female reproductive tissues, including the breasts, uterus, and vagina. It is involved in the regulation of the menstrual cycle and plays a key role in the maturation of the ovarian follicles.
Pregnancy: During pregnancy, estradiol levels increase significantly and contribute to the health and development of the fetus.
Bone Health: Estradiol helps in maintaining bone density. It plays a protective role against osteoporosis, a condition where bones become weak and brittle.
Cardiovascular Health: Estradiol has a beneficial effect on the lipid profile and blood vessels, contributing to heart health. It helps maintain the elasticity of arteries, reducing the risk of atherosclerosis.
Cognitive Functions: Estradiol is believed to have a positive effect on cognitive health and mood. It is thought to be involved in brain function, including memory and mood regulation.
Skin and Hair Health: This hormone also contributes to the health of the skin and hair, influencing skin thickness, hydration, and hair growth.
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Estradiol is commonly used in HRT for menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, mood swings, and vaginal dryness. It is used to replace the estrogen that the ovaries no longer produce after menopause.
Forms and Administration: It can be administered in various forms, including oral tablets, topical gels, patches, and injections.
Balance with Other Hormones: It's important to balance estradiol with other hormones, like progesterone, to maintain overall health and mitigate risks associated with hormone therapy, such as an increased risk of certain types of cancer.
Estradiol's role in the body is extensive, influencing not only reproductive health but also affecting bones, cardiovascular system, brain, and overall well-being.
Estrone (E1): Estrone is a form of estrogen, a female sex hormone. It is less potent than estradiol and is the main type of estrogen produced after menopause. Estrone is primarily produced in the ovaries and fat tissue and plays a role in female reproductive health, though its specific functions are less defined compared to estradiol.
Estriol (E3): Estriol is another form of estrogen, which is particularly significant during pregnancy. It is the weakest of the three major estrogens and is primarily produced by the placenta. Estriol levels rise significantly during pregnancy and it's believed to help regulate the immune system to protect the fetus.
Testosterone: Often regarded as the primary male sex hormone, testosterone is important in both men and women. In men, it's produced mainly in the testicles and is essential for developing male reproductive tissues, muscle mass, bone density, and body hair. In women, it's produced in smaller amounts in the ovaries and adrenal glands and is important for bone strength and sexual function.
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA): DHEA is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands and is a precursor to both male and female sex hormones, including estrogen and testosterone. It plays a role in developing secondary sexual characteristics during puberty and affects body composition, libido, and immune function. DHEA levels typically peak in early adulthood and decrease with age.
Hydrocortisone (Cortisol): Known more commonly as cortisol when produced naturally in the body, hydrocortisone is a steroid hormone released by the adrenal glands in response to stress and low blood-glucose concentration. It is involved in a wide range of bodily functions, including metabolism regulation, immune response modulation, and stress response. As a medication, hydrocortisone is used to treat conditions such as allergies, skin disorders, and arthritis.
Diosgenin is a naturally occurring steroid saponin found primarily in certain plants. It's notable for its role in the pharmaceutical industry and its relevance in the field of endocrinology. Here are key points about diosgenin:
Source: Diosgenin is extracted from various plants, most notably from the tubers of Dioscorea species, commonly known as wild yams, particularly those found in Mexico. It is also present in fenugreek, a plant commonly used in cooking and traditional medicine.
Use in Steroid Synthesis: Diosgenin is an important starting material in the industrial synthesis of various steroid hormones, such as progesterone, cortisone, and other sex hormones. While diosgenin itself is not a hormone and does not have hormonal effects, its chemical structure allows it to be converted into these hormones in a laboratory setting.
Historical Significance: The discovery of diosgenin and its use in synthesizing steroid hormones played a crucial role in the development of the first oral contraceptives in the 1950s and 1960s.
Alternative Medicine: Diosgenin is sometimes mentioned in alternative medicine as a "natural" source of progesterone. However, it's important to note that the human body cannot convert diosgenin into hormones. Any hormonal activity from products claimed to be "natural hormone sources" containing diosgenin is due to added synthetic hormones, not the diosgenin itself.
In summary, diosgenin is a plant-derived compound instrumental in the production of various synthetic hormones but does not have hormonal effects in its natural state.
Norethindrone (also known as norethisterone) is a synthetic progestin, which is a form of the female hormone progesterone. It's used in various hormonal contraceptives and for other medical purposes. Here are some key points about norethindrone:
Contraceptive Use: Norethindrone is a common ingredient in birth control pills. It works primarily by preventing ovulation, thickening cervical mucus to hinder sperm movement, and altering the uterine lining to prevent implantation of a fertilized egg.
Menstrual Disorders: It is also used to treat menstrual disorders such as heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding, endometriosis, and premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
Hormone Replacement Therapy: In some hormone replacement therapy (HRT) formulations, norethindrone is used to counteract the effects of estrogen on the uterine lining, especially in preventing endometrial hyperplasia, which can lead to uterine cancer.
Administration: Norethindrone can be administered orally as a pill or in a long-acting injectable form.
Side Effects: Like other hormonal medications, norethindrone can have side effects, which may include breast tenderness, nausea, headache, mood changes, and menstrual irregularities among others. The risk of blood clots is also a concern, particularly in smokers or women over the age of 35.
First Generation Progestin: Norethindrone is classified as a first-generation progestin and was one of the first progestins to be developed. It has been in use since the 1950s.
Premarin is a brand name for a medication that is a form of hormone replacement therapy (HRT). It contains a mixture of estrogens derived from the urine of pregnant mares, hence the name "Pre-mar-in" (Pregnant Mare's Urine). Here are some key points about Premarin:
Composition: Premarin is composed of conjugated equine estrogens, which are a mixture of several different types of estrogen hormones.
Uses: It is commonly prescribed to alleviate symptoms associated with menopause, such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and irritation. It can also be used to prevent osteoporosis in postmenopausal women and to replace estrogen in women with ovarian failure or other conditions that cause a lack of natural estrogen in the body.
Menopausal Symptoms Relief: As an HRT, Premarin helps to alleviate the symptoms of menopause by replacing the estrogen that the body no longer produces naturally after menopause.
Osteoporosis Prevention: It can help prevent bone loss and reduce the risk of fractures in postmenopausal women.
Administration and Dosage: Premarin is available in oral tablet form or as a topical cream and should be prescribed based on individual needs and health conditions.
Controversy and Ethical Concerns: The production of Premarin has raised ethical concerns regarding the welfare of the horses used in its production. Additionally, there have been debates about the health risks associated with HRT, particularly concerning the risk of breast cancer, blood clots, and heart disease.
Risk Assessment: Like any estrogen therapy, Premarin carries risks and benefits that need to be carefully weighed. It is typically used when the benefits of relieving menopausal symptoms outweigh the potential risks.
Premarin has been a widely used medication in hormone replacement therapy. However, due to its origin and associated risks, its use often involves careful consideration and discussion between a patient and their healthcare provider.
Prometrium is a brand name for a medication that contains progesterone, which is a type of female hormone (progestin). This medication is bioidentical, meaning that the progesterone in Prometrium is chemically identical to the progesterone produced naturally by the body. Here are some key aspects of Prometrium:
Uses: Prometrium is primarily used in hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for postmenopausal women who have not had a hysterectomy and are taking estrogen. It's used to prevent the thickening of the lining of the uterus (endometrial hyperplasia) and reduce the risk of endometrial cancer, which can occur when estrogen is taken without progesterone.
Form: It is commonly available in capsule form and is taken orally.
Bioidentical Hormone: As a bioidentical hormone, Prometrium is often preferred over synthetic progestins by some doctors and patients. Bioidentical hormones have fewer side effects than their synthetic counterparts.
Other Uses: Besides its use in HRT, Prometrium is also prescribed for treating secondary amenorrhea (absence of menstrual periods in women who have previously had a menstrual cycle).
Prometrium represents an important option in hormone replacement therapy, especially for women seeking bioidentical hormone treatments.
Neurosteroids are a class of steroids that are synthesized in the brain and the nervous system, in addition to being produced by the adrenal glands and gonads (ovaries and testes). Unlike most steroids which are produced in the endocrine glands and then travel through the bloodstream to the brain and other organs, neurosteroids are produced directly in the brain and nervous system. Here are some key aspects of neurosteroids:
Synthesis: Neurosteroids are synthesized from cholesterol and are found in the brain and the peripheral nervous system.
Function: They play a significant role in the functioning of the central nervous system (CNS). Neurosteroids affect brain function, behavior, and mood. They are involved in the regulation of neuronal excitability and synaptic function, and they interact with neurotransmitters like gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA).
Types: Some of the well-known neurosteroids include allopregnanolone, pregnenolone, and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). These substances can have various effects on the brain, ranging from neuroprotective to modulating mood and cognitive functions.
Mental Health Implications: Neurosteroids are being studied for their potential role in mental health conditions. For example, changes in neurosteroid levels have been associated with mood disorders, anxiety, depression, and other psychiatric conditions.
In summary, neurosteroids represent a unique category of steroids that are synthesized in the brain and are important for various neurological functions and potentially for the treatment of certain brain disorders.
Dr. Ray Peat is a biologist and researcher known for his work and views in the fields of nutrition, health, and endocrinology, particularly regarding the hormones progesterone and thyroid. He has a Ph.D. in Biology from the University of Oregon, specializing in physiology. Some key points about Dr. Ray Peat:
Alternative Health Perspectives: Dr. Peat is known for his unconventional views on dietary and health matters, often challenging mainstream medical opinions. His ideas focus on the therapeutic value of certain dietary choices and hormonal supplements.
Focus on Hormones: He emphasizes the importance of thyroid and progesterone in health, advocating for their role in preventing a variety of health issues, including hormonal imbalances and age-related degenerative diseases.
Dietary Recommendations: Dr. Peat advocates for a diet high in specific nutrients like vitamins A and E, and low in polyunsaturated fats, that can have negative effects on the body's hormonal balance.
Dr. Broda Otto Barnes (1906-1988) was an American physician and researcher known for his work in the field of endocrinology, particularly his contributions to the understanding and treatment of thyroid disorders. He was a strong advocate for the diagnosis and treatment of hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland is underactive. Here are some key points about Dr. Broda Barnes:
Focus on Thyroid Health: Dr. Barnes is best known for his hypothesis that many health problems, including various chronic diseases and conditions, were related to undiagnosed hypothyroidism.
Body Temperature Test: He developed a method for diagnosing hypothyroidism involving basal body temperature, known as the Barnes Basal Temperature Test. This test involves measuring body temperature first thing in the morning as an indicator of thyroid function, with the idea that lower temperatures might indicate hypothyroidism.
Books and Publications: Dr. Barnes authored several books, including "Hypothyroidism: The Unsuspected Illness," which outlines his theories about the prevalence and impact of undiagnosed thyroid disorders.
Broda O. Barnes Research Foundation: He founded the Broda O. Barnes Research Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to research on thyroid and hormonal health. The foundation continues to promote his work and theories.
Legacy: Dr. Barnes left a lasting impact on the field of alternative thyroid treatment. His work continues to influence some practitioners and patients who seek alternative approaches to thyroid health.
Dr. Michael E. Platt is a medical doctor known for his work in the field of hormone balance and its impact on health. He is particularly recognized for his focus on the role of adrenaline and its effects on conditions like weight gain, stress, and chronic illness. Here are some key aspects of Dr. Michael Platt's work:
Adrenaline Dominance: Dr. Platt is known for his concept of "adrenaline dominance," which he describes as an overproduction of adrenaline that can lead to various health issues. He suggests that many symptoms and conditions, including fibromyalgia, mood disorders, and weight issues, may be related to excess adrenaline.
Holistic Approach to Health: His approach often involves a holistic view of health, considering the role of hormones and lifestyle factors in managing and treating various health conditions.
Books and Publications: Dr. Platt has authored books that discuss his theories and treatment approaches, including "The Miracle of Bio-Identical Hormones" and "Adrenaline Dominance." These books aim to provide insights into managing health conditions through hormone balance and lifestyle changes.
Dr. Kent Holtorf is an American physician known for his work in integrative and alternative medicine, particularly in the areas of complex chronic diseases, endocrinology, and hormone replacement therapy. He is recognized for his unconventional approach to treating a wide range of conditions, often focusing on thyroid disorders, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, hormonal imbalances, and age-related illnesses. Here are some key points about Dr. Kent Holtorf:
Holtorf Medical Group: He is the founder of the Holtorf Medical Group, which specializes in providing advanced, innovative treatments for patients with difficult-to-diagnose and treat medical conditions. This group practices a combination of traditional and alternative medical approaches.
Focus on Hormonal Therapy: Dr. Holtorf has a particular interest in bioidentical hormone replacement therapy and thyroid disorders. He advocates for a more comprehensive approach to diagnosing and treating thyroid conditions, often challenging traditional medical perspectives.
Research and Education: He is involved in research and education, particularly in the fields of endocrinology and chronic disease. Dr. Holtorf has lectured to physicians at medical conferences and has published research on various topics, including hormone replacement therapy and chronic fatigue syndrome.
Integrative Approach: His approach is characterized by integrating traditional medical treatments with alternative therapies, emphasizing a patient-centered model of care.
Thank you for this! I recently went through menopause and had a horrific time with severe panic attacks, hot flashes, night sweats, insomnia, vertigo - basically everything listed as a symptom. My functional doctor tested me and then put me on biodentical hormones and they have been life changing. I feel better than I have felt in years and I swear my skin looks younger - an added bonus!!
Excellent information.