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Frequently Asked Questions
 
 
bioidentical hormone faqsHormone Replacement Therapy Frequently Asked Questions

The process of hormone replacement is fairly straightforward. The most important part of hormone replacement therapy is the thorough initial evaluation and consultation. There are many questions that patients have such as "is bioidentical hormone replacement therapy safe?" and "what is the difference between bioidentical hormones and synthetic hormones?"

This section is designed to provide you with all of the information you need before deciding to pursue hormone replacement therapy. Please review the FAQs below. Of course our physician, Dr. Kopyev is happy to discuss these questions with you over the phone or at your next appointment. You may ask Dr. Kopyev a question by emailing him, speak with him directly by calling (330)-552-7202, or simply read this page.

FAQs about Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy

What Are Bioidentical Hormones?
Bio identical hormones are an exact chemical match to naturally occurring hormones in the human body and are extracted from yam and soy plants. They are synthesized in such a way that they are identical to the molecules of the hormones that are naturally produced in you. Our bodies recognize these bioidentical hormones exactly as they would our own hormones produced from the glands. There is a significant difference in the absorption, positive as well as negative metabolic effects depending on if the hormones are taken by injection, oral pill, under the tongue, vaginally, gels, ointments, crèmes or patches. It is important to discuss the best method for you with your physician.

Do Compounded Medications Require FDA Approval?
The FDA approval process is intended for mass-produced drugs made by large manufacturers. Because compounded medications are personalized for individual patients, it is not possible for each formulation to go through the FDA’s drug approval process, which takes years to complete and is prohibitively expensive, often costing hundreds of millions of dollars. State Boards obligate compounding pharmacy to use only those official raw materials that have certificates of analysis as being appropriate for the production of bioidentical hormones.

Are Bioidentical Hormones Approved by the FDA
Custom made mixtures of bioidentical hormones are not approved by the FDA for the simple reason that the molecules have not been altered. Pharmaceutical companies cannot patent natural chemicals and chemists must further alter hormones in order to obtain a patent and profits to be made by the pharmaceutical company. However, the industry can patent certain forms of delivery and extraction as well as modified hormones that are not bioidentical. After that they can go through a complicated and expensive process to seek approval by the FDA for mass production. For that reason that they have to be made in fixed, not individually tailored doses. Those bioidentical hormones are actually FDA approved and are available in regular pharmacies. Bioidentical hormones also are the part of United States Pharmacopoeia.

What is Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy?
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy is a process where a physician performs tests and analyzes the results to develop a specific combination of hormones specific to you. It is a precise replica of hormones that are bioidentically produced by you body. Once the physician determines the best combination for you, his recommendations are sent to a compounding pharmacy where a specific combination is made exactly for you. Dr. Kopyev and Forever Ageless focus on getting to the root of the problem, so when your doctor can not diagnose a problem and traditional medicine has failed, this is where bioidentical hormone replacement can be very useful in addition to properly balancing your life and body in general.

What is the Difference Between Synthetic Hormones and Bioidentical Hormones
Bioidentical hormones differ from synthetic hormones because they are produced in such a way that its' molecular structure is identical to that of human natural hormones: cortisone, thyroid, androgens, estrogens and progesterone. These hormones are processed in compounding pharmacies, specifically tailored towards your individual needs. Synthetic hormones have modified structure to improve absorption, stability, and exaggerate certain pharmacological effects. They usually tailored to express supraphysiological effects in order to treat disease or to suppress normal body function (birth control pills, anabolic steroids). Synthetic hormones are mass-produced and not tailored for the patient using them and they also have multiple side-effects in contrast to bioidentical hormones. Synthetic hormones bond differently with the different body organs and are not recognized or metabolized normally and may accumulate in toxic quantities.

What is Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy?
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy is a process where a physician performs tests and analyzes the results to develop a specific combination of hormones specific to you. It is a precise replica of hormones that are bioidentically produced by you body. Once the physician determines the best combination for your body, his recommendations are sent to a compounding pharmacy where a specific combination is made exactly for you. Dr. Kopyev and Forever Ageless focus on getting to the root of the problem, so when your doctor can not diagnose a problem and traditional medicine has failed, this is where bioidentical hormone replacement can be very useful in addition to properly balancing your life and body in general.

Why Consider Hormone Replacement Therapy?
Throughout our lives, there is no doubt that we have been exposed to many hormones. Whether it is birth control pills, hydrocortisone for rashes or Vitamin D in milk, we have been exposed to these. Our increasingly stressful and busy lives force us to develop poor nutrition habits and detract from our fitness goals as well as use multiple pharmaceuticals which results in a premature decline in naturally produced hormones in our bodies. This, combined with menopause, andropause and aging have proven a need for such a treatment. In most cases, our hormones begin to decline in our mid-20s and hormone imbalance symptoms become more prevalent in your mid 30s. Men and women often begin replacing hormones between the chronological age of 35 and 40. While there are several benefits that result from undergoing bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, some of the most common are osteoporosis prevention, muscles mass maintenance, body mass maintenance, improvement of lipid and cholesterol levels, preservation of cardiovascular function, protection of youthful brain function, balancing the mood, improvement of quality of sleep and normalized energy levels.

What are Common Side Effects of Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy?
Side effects with bioidentical hormone replacement therapy are minimal because bioidentical hormones have the identical molecular structure of hormones made in our bodies. Unwanted side effects can occur, primarily when the dosage of hormones is too high or they are supplemented disproportionately. This is why it is important to work with your physician to regulate these hormones and get you on the right mix tailored for you.

When Will I Notice the Effects of Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy?
This varies with each individual, however, most bioidentical hormone replacement therapy patients begin to notice a difference within 3-6 months of consistent use. This is the amount of time that is required to properly balance your hormones.

Do I Need a Prescription for Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy Supplements?
Yes, these hormones are specifically compounded for you and produced in a special compounding pharmacy. Each prescription is hand made by pharmacists who specialize in formulating these types of compounds. A physician must determine the proper levels that are required for you and your specific needs.

How Long Will I Need to Take the Hormones?
Many think that you must use the hormones forever but that is not always the case. This largely depends upon how well your body responds to bioidentical hormone replacement therapy as well as on your personal goals and needs. There are of course other variables such as diet and nutrition which is why Forever Ageless takes a 360 degree approach to bioidentical hormone replacement therapy and age management. Every patient is different and there are many variables that affect the demand for continued use. It is always best to work with Dr. Kopyev on a consistent basis in order to monitor your progress and tweak dosages as your life changes.

How Does Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy Interfere with Current Medications?
Generally, bioidentical hormones have no effect on your current medications. You may eventually be able to decrease the dosage of your current medication or stop use all together. Dr. Kopyev will review your medications and conditions and warn you if any significant interactions may occur. He will work with your physicians to ensure safe and effective use of all supplements and medications.

How Long Will I Need to Take the Hormones?
Many think that you must use the hormones forever but that is not always the case. This largely depends upon how well your body responds to bioidentical hormone replacement therapy as well as on your personal goals and needs. There are of course other variables such as diet and nutrition which is why Forever Ageless takes a 360 degree approach to bioidentical hormone replacement therapy and age management. Every patient is different and there are many variables that affect the demand for continued use. It is always best to work with Dr. Kopyev on a consistent basis in order to monitor your progress and tweak dosages as your life changes.

Do I Need a Prescription for Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy Supplements?
Yes, most hormones require physician's prescription to be dispensed or specifically compounded for you in a specialized compounding pharmacy. Each prescription is hand made by pharmacists who specialize in formulating these types of compounds. Dr. Kopyev will have to monitor hormonal levels in order to achieve your best personal goals.

What Are the Different Delivery Methods for Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy Supplements?
Bioidentical hormones come in many different forms and it is important that you use the method that is best suited for your situation. Hormones can be delivered in tablets, capsule, drops, topical crèmes, triturates, troches, rapid dissolving tables and patches.


For More Information or to Have a Specific Question Answered, Call us Today and Speak Directly With Dr. Kopyev Now at (330) 552-7202 or Contact Dr. Kopyev Through our Website.

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*DISCLAIMER: The information provided on this website is intended for educational purposes only. The educational material contained in this site is based on readily available information and the experience of Forever Ageless Age Management and Bioidentical HRT. This information is not intended to self diagnose any conditions or treatments and it is recommended that you seek a professional's opinion. This information is not intended to diagnose, treate or prevent any disease.