Definition of Bioidentical Hormones?

As a patient at an Anti-Aging & Vitality Center, there are a number of hormones that you might receive. Bioidentical hormones are prescribed by our physicians here at AVC. These hormones are nearly identical to hormones your body makes naturally, molecule for molecule. You cannot purchase them at a regular pharmacy nor can pharmaceutical companies produce them because Bioidentical hormones cannot be patented. In most cases, they are compounded specifically for each individual patient in a special pharmacy, and only with a medical doctor's prescription.

Here’s just a little information about each hormone:

• DHEA – This is the most abundant hormone in the human body, and it serves many different purposes. It is an important factor in the production of other hormones such as progesterone, testosterone and estrogen. It is an immune system booster and may also be helpful in treating autoimmune disease. DHEA has several other possible benefits. Although you can buy it over the counter, it is important that you know the purity and strength of the product before buying it. Wide variations are common in DHEA. If you should have any specific questions about DHEA, make sure to ask us.
• Estrogen – Estrogen - This sex hormone, the female hormone, is actually comprised of three hormones. Until the onset of menopause, the ovaries produce estrogen. There are a number of conditions associated with low levels of estrogen, including arteriosclerosis and osteoporosis. A decrease in estrogen has also been related to a decline in cognitive functioning. The anti-aging benefits of estrogen include decreased heart attacks and strokes, stronger bones, increased thickness of skin, improved memory, improved mucous membranes, and an increase in lifespan.
• HGH - The Human Growth Hormone, or HGH, is instrumental in causing growth and repair of skin, kidneys, muscles, among other organs. Levels of HGH rise dramatically throughout puberty, peak around 20 years, and then begin to slowly decline. The anti-aging benefits of this hormone are believed to cause an increase in energy levels and vitality, a reduction in body fat, an increase in muscle mass, thicker skin, better sleep, improvements in bone production, as well as an increase in lifespan.  We do not prescribe HGH at this time. 
• T3 or T4 – These active thyroid hormones increase energy as well as metabolism.
• Testosterone – Men and women alike have testosterone, the male sex hormone. A sharp decline in testosterone should be taken seriously. Libido problems and impotency are associated with loss of this hormone. A number of anti-aging benefits are thought to be linked with testosterone. These include an increase in libido, increase in sexual potency, improvement in erections, better mood and feeling of contentment, decrease in fatigue, increase in red blood cells, reduced cholesterol, and increased bone strength.
• Melatonin – The hormone melatonin is key in managing the body's internal clock. Anti-aging benefits of melatonin may include better sleep, a more robust immune system, a more positive reaction to stress as well as a better sense of prosperity.
• Pregnenolone - Your body uses Pregnenolone to produce the hormones DHEA, testosterone, progesterone, and estrogen. Having sufficient levels of pregnenolone is important to your cognitive ability. Pregnenolone may have anti-aging benefits, including stress reduction and lessening of arthritic inflammation, cognitive maintenance, better mood, as well as improved sleep patterns and a better sense of well-being.