HRT Update
Since when does one size ever fit all? Or even most? It's no surprise then that
hormones should be prescribed according to each woman's individual needs. Many
health care practitioners believe the current practice of synthetic HRT for
menopausal women is inappropriate and should be replaced by what is called
"low-dose normalizing HRT," using biologically identical hormones that are the
same as those produced naturally in the human body. The lowest effective dose is
prescribed initially and increased until the desired therapeutic effect is achieved.
Many women who take biologically identical hormones report fewer side effects, if
any at all.
Pet Peeves
About 68 million dogs are owned as pets in the United States, slightly topped by cats
(73 million-no surprise to them, of course). Countless other animals of every description
share their lives with humans. At College Pharmacy, we compound unique, customized
formulations to treat your pets' health concerns, as well as your own. Any of our
pharmacists would be happy to consult with your veterinarian about options for your pet.
For Men Only
As men age, the balance between testosterone and estradiol (a form of estrogen) is
tilted in favor of estradiol production. The conversion of testosterone to estradiol
takes place under the influence of the enzyme aromatase. It is possible to block
aromatase activity to reduce the chance that any testosterone given will be
converted to even more estrogen in men. A natural aromatase inhibitor called
chrysin can be found alone and in combination with other supplements used to
improve prostate health, such as saw palmetto.
Remember Sex?
Changes associated with aging may result in low libido for both men and women.
After menopause, women may experience vaginal dryness, less sensitivity of
the clitoris, and less intense orgasms. Men may experience erectile dysfunction
due to physical or psychological problems or simply notice changes in their
sexual response. Changes in men may include difficulty attaining and maintaining
an erection, less firmness, and longer periods between orgasms. Biologically
identical hormone therapy, along with nutritional and lifestyle changes, can
help a great deal.
Healthy and Fit
When it comes to getting exercise, anything is better than nothing. If you don't
have time for a 45-minute run, do 30 or 15 minutes. Take the stairs instead of
the elevator. Go for a walk after dinner instead of watching TV. Choose one of
the parking spots nobody wants-far away from the entrance-when you go to the
mall. Bottom line (literally): get up and get moving!
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Letters
Migraines gone!
(One of your pharmacist's) excellent guidance and in-depth knowledge of
natural hormones have enabled me to finally rid myself of migraine
headaches, which have dogged me on a daily basis for many years...
I called your pharmacy, desperate for help, and was referred to "CS"
for consultation. He spent at least an hour on the phone with me,
getting information about symptoms and other necessary information
to determine how to proceed. The initial consultation was followed
by many others in the following weeks….Over a period of a month
and a half ... the headaches disappeared! ... I congratulate you on
your fine staff and hope you will continue to provide this invaluable
service to women like myself who have been unable to find responsive
treatment in the traditional medical community.
"J"
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Q&A
Q: How are biologically identical hormones administered?
A: A patient may need to try several different delivery
systems to determine which one works best. Non-oral routes of
administration, such as transdermal (through the skin),
sublingual (under the tongue), and pellet implants provide
a more consistent and natural way to introduce medications
into the body.
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Join our mailing list
If you'd like to be on our mailing list and receive our free, quarterly
print newsletter, plus information about our free health seminars,
please email us at info@collegepharmacy.com.
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Quote of the Month
"The biggest human temptation is to settle for too little." -Thomas Merton
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