Pros and Cons of HRT Pellets
Why do HRT pellets get a bad rap?
People have strong feelings about hormone pellet therapy. This bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (HRT) involves implanting small hormone pellets under the skin. Some women think it's the best decision they’ve ever made, and others steer clear. Our Austin and Dripping Springs OBGYNs break down the pros and cons, and explain why HRT pellets can get a bad rap.
Why some women love HRT pellets
Women have individual reasons for why hormone replacement therapy is the best solution for them, but there are consistent “pros” among patients.
Patients experience relief from hormone-related symptoms, including mood swings, fatigue, weight gain and memory loss.
The pellets release a steady, continuous stream of hormones into the bloodstream.
The hormone therapy is personalized to the specific needs of the woman.
The pellets last up to six months, providing valued convenience to patients.
And now, the downsides of this form of hormone replacement therapy
Because HRT pellets are prepared by a pharmacist in a compounding pharmacy, they are not subject to verification by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Without this verification, they cannot then be approved by the FDA. This can raise concerns about potential inconsistencies or impurities in the pellets.
The pellets are placed under the skin using a brief, in-office implantation. Some people do not want to have this minor procedure. Also, should a woman want to stop the hormone therapy before the pellets have completely dissolved, typically in three to six months, they must be removed using another minor procedure.
Most women pay out of pocket for hormone replacement therapy pellets. Because the therapy is not FDA-approved, most insurance companies do not cover any costs, leaving the expense to the patient.
There are limited large studies on the overall effectiveness of HRT pellets. While data is available on the effectiveness of hormone pellets, it has been gathered by small studies. While large-scale studies have been done comparing HRT to no treatment, large-scale randomized controlled trials directly comparing different HRT forms have not yet been conducted.
Women have many options for hormone replacement therapy. The right choice is the one that best suits the woman’s health and lifestyle.
Our Austin and Dripping Springs OBGYNs are available to discuss the available options, including HRT pellets, and help determine the best one for you. Contact Hill Country OB/GYN for an appointment.