Coordinated and released into the circulatory system by our endocrine system, hormones are signaling molecules that can interact solely or jointly with other bodily substances to meet our body’s fluctuating short- and long-term physiological needs. With so many hormones and related bodily processes, the endocrine system has a delicate job keeping hormone levels balanced. Fortunately, most people’s endocrine systems do an admirable job ensuring that the correct amount of each hormone flows in our bloodstream.

However, life changes—such as puberty, pregnancy, and menopause—naturally cause hormone imbalances, as can some medical conditions and aging. And hormone imbalances can cause numerous debilitating side effects in men and women.

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) has emerged in the 21st century as a viable and safe solution for achieving and maintaining hormonal equilibrium. While many medical practitioners utilize synthetic hormones delivered into the body via injection, pills, creams, gels, and patches, Tampa, Florida’s Health + Glow Medical Spa relies on what it believes to be a more effective form of HRT: BioTE®’s Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT).

Understanding BioTE®’s “Pellet Therapy”

Also referred to as “pellet therapy” by developer BioTE®, BHRT differs from other therapies in two significant ways. First, rather than relying on synthetic hormones that approximate the actions of our natural hormones, BioTE®’s therapy uses plant-based “bioidentical” hormones that have the same molecular structure as our hormones. Second, the bioidentical hormones are consistently delivered into the bloodstream as needed via rice-size pellets inserted under the skin.

BioTE® Pellet Therapy Science

With the same molecular structure as human hormones, bioidentical hormones offer patients better absorption and utilization rates than synthetic hormones. This makes them more effective at correcting hormone imbalances and may help reduce potential HRT side effects. Additionally, the pellet form of hormone delivery ensures a steady absorption of hormones to maintain consistent levels as needed by the body. Traditional oral and transdermal HRT delivery methods provide inconsistent daily hormone levels, which can mitigate their effectiveness and cause minor side effects like energy level fluctuations and mood swings. Combined, the bioidentical hormones and pellet delivery allow dosages to be finely adjusted to address each patient’s unique needs and health profile, whereas traditional HRT relies more on standardized dosing.

The Customized Nature of BioTE® BHRT Approach

Hormone pellet therapy at Health + Glow begins with an appointment with BioTE® Certified Provider Dr. Swapna M. Kallikadan, who will conduct a physical examination and review your symptoms and overall health profile. The physical exam includes lab work to test hormone levels, and Dr Kallikadan will assess all elements of your appointment to assess your suitability for the therapy. If the lab work finds hormone deficiencies and your health profile makes you suitable, the doctor will send the results to BioTE®, which customizes the correct dosage for your pellets.

Undergoing BioTE® Pellet Therapy

You can begin the therapy when the pellets have been formulated and delivered to our Naples facility. After a topical anesthetic has been applied to the insertion site, typically in a spot on the upper buttocks, one of our medical practitioners will make a small incision and insert the pellet. The incision is closed with a bandage, and your body will begin to absorb the hormones from the pellet.

With different metabolisms, patients experience results at varying rates. Some patients notice positive effects on the first day or within a month, but others may need up to six months and/or a second pellet insertion to realize complete optimization. Each pellet session’s typical three- to six-month duration depends on the patient’s gender, weight, metabolism, and the initial extent of hormone imbalance. To maintain hormonal balance, new pellets should be inserted two to four times a year, depending on estimated absorption rates.

BioTE® Pellet Therapy Health Benefits

Whatever the cause of hormone imbalance, BioTE®’ BHRT can help alleviate many of the symptoms associated with it. In women, pellet therapy alleviates many of the symptoms associated with menopause or other causes of hormone deficiencies. The therapy’s primary health benefits include:

• Increased libido and sexual desire
• Normal sleep pattern restoration
• Enhanced mood
• Reduction in hot flashes and night sweats
• Boost in bone density
• Vaginal dryness relief
• Enhanced memory and cognitive function
• Mitigated weight gain

In men, pellet therapy counteracts the symptoms of andropause (low testosterone) and provides these primary benefits:

• Increased libido and enhanced sexual performance
• Boost in muscle mass and bone density retention
• Improved energy levels
• Better control over mid-section weight gain
• Lifting of brain fog
• Enhanced memory and cognitive function
• Anxiety reduction

BioTE®: Focused on Safety and Effectiveness

Long controversial, HRT’s safety was challenged in 2002 by the early release of an ongoing Woman’s Health Initiative (WHI) study that linked the therapy to cancer and other significant health issues. While follow-up research identified flaws in the WHI findings and determined that HRT benefits outweigh the risks, some people affected by hormone imbalances remain wary of the treatment. In light of this, BioTE® is dedicated to being a leading researcher into the safety and efficacy of BHRT by conducting numerous clinical studies.

Contact Health + Glow to Learn More About Biote’s Pellet Therapy

As a BioTE® Certified Provider with proven expertise in helping its Tampa, Florida-area patients achieve hormonal balance, Health + Glow can assess your hormone levels and health profile to see if the therapy can benefit you. To learn more about how BioTE®’s pellet therapy can enhance your health and energy, schedule an appointment with our medical spa today.