Bioidentical Hormone Therapy – What’s the Difference?

Bioidentical Hormone Therapy Versus Menopausal Hormone Therapy

Bioidentical hormone therapy (BHT) uses hormones that come from plants, while traditional Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT) is generally made from synthetic materials or animal products.

While bioidenticals are often marketed as “natural,” they are still chemically processed in order to be effective as a medication for humans. Some forms of BHT are FDA-approved, while others—and any compounded BHT medications—are not.

Experts agree that FDA-approved forms of BHT and MHT offer similar relief from menopause symptoms. While some say that BHT is safer than MHT, there has not been sufficient research to support this claim.

Be wary of hormone clinics or online prescription services that make far-reaching promises and sell non-FDA-approved formulations of BHT. You might be both throwing your money away and putting your health at risk.

Compounded BHT

BHT is often sold as a compounded medication (cBHT), meaning it is custom-formulated in different doses. A prescribing provider will test your hormone levels and then instruct a compounding pharmacy in what hormone doses to use.

While MHT is FDA-approved, cBHT does not fall under FDA jurisdiction and cannot be FDA-approved. Without a rigorous drug testing process, you can’t be sure of its safety or efficacy. Reports have also shown that cBHT medications can vary widely from what was actually prescribed.

Despite the fact that the FDA attempted to ban cBHT twice in the past, an estimated tens of millions of cBHT prescriptions are written every year.

Major organizations like the North American Menopause Society recommend that cBHT only be used in specific circumstances where FDA-approved products are medically inappropriate. For example, if someone has an allergy to an ingredient in an approved product, they may need to have their hormones compounded with a different formulation.

Which Type of Hormone Therapy is Right for You?

If you are interested in hormone therapy to ease the symptoms of menopause, it’s best to discuss FDA-approved BHT and MHT options with an expert healthcare provider.

Discuss your symptoms and options with a Midday menopause coach. Book an appointment through the Midday website or app.

Consulting with a certified menopause practitioner can also be a great help. The North American Menopause Society has an online directory of certified menopause practitioners.