Everything You Need To Know About Hormone Pellets
Written by Dr. Charles P. Virden, MD, FACS, Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon | Medical Director of TheraPellET
Use of hormone therapy administered via subcutaneous pellets has exploded. Driven by an incredible patient experience and customized dosing, the therapy is becoming the preferred patient option.
At TheraPellET, we’re here to answer all your questions! Below are some common questions we receive from patients looking to receive hormone therapy.
What Are Hormone Pellets?
Simply put, hormone pellets are small implants that medical professionals insert under the skin. These implants periodically release small doses of specified hormones, often referred to as bioidentical hormones.
These bioidentical hormones are not manufactured in labs. In fact, the hormones are sourced from plants and are Identical to the ones that the human body produces naturally.
These hormone pellets often contain a mix of hormones like, estradiol, estrone, dehydroepiandrosterone, and testosterone. These pellets require a prescription from a doctor, and are pending approval from the FDA.
Are Hormone Pellets Safe?
While the FDA approval is still pending on compounded hormone therapy, many people believe hormone pellets work better than FDA-approved drugs.
Studies are currently underway to fully process the effectiveness and safety of hormone pellets.
The FDA has signed off on some bioidentical hormones. However, compounded hormone pellets, which are a mixture of hormones customized to the person receiving treatment, have yet to receive complete approval.
Despite the FDA process, it’s widely considered among medical practitioners that the hormone pellet implantation and process is very safe. Ensure that you keep your practitioners informed on any concerns prior and during the hormone therapy process.
What Are The Side Effects of Hormone Pellets?
The side effects of hormone pellets vary depending on the levels and types of hormones. In addition to the health of the person receiving treatment.
For those receiving higher doses of testosterone, the following side effects are common:
- Irritability
- Acne
- Hair growth in areas such as face, chest, torso, and back.
- Male pattern baldness
Every person reacts differently, it’s best to have a thorough discussion with your doctor prior to engaging in hormone therapy.
About the Author
Dr. Charles P. Virden is the Medical Director and Owner of TheraPellET, specializing in hormone therapy and bioidentical hormone replacement for men and women. He is also a board-certified plastic surgeon. He earned his medical degree from the University of Southern California, completed his general surgery residency at UC San Diego, and went on to complete a plastic surgery fellowship at UC San Diego. Dr. Virden is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, as well as a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. He has authored research published in the Journal of Laboratory and Clinical Medicine, the Journal of Pediatric Surgery, the Journal of the American College of Surgeons (formerly Surgery, Gynecology & Obstetrics), Hospital Practice, and Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. He has practiced in Reno since 1995.