Verbatim response from Claude
BHRT vs Traditional HRT: A Practical Guide
Quick Answer
Ask for FDA-approved bioidentical hormones first — they offer the best of both worlds for most people.
The Key Distinction
| Type | What It Means | Regulation |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional HRT | Often synthetic or animal-derived (e.g., Premarin) | FDA-approved |
| FDA-approved BHRT | Bioidentical, standardized doses | FDA-approved |
| Compounded BHRT | Custom-mixed bioidentical | NOT FDA-approved |
What to Ask For (By Name)
FDA-approved bioidentical options:
- Estradiol — patches like Vivelle-Dot or Climara, or gel like Estrogel
- Progesterone — Prometrium (oral capsule)
- Testosterone — AndroGel (off-label for women)
These are bioidentical and regulated for safety/efficacy.
Where to Go
- Your OB/GYN or internist — first stop
- Menopause Society-certified providers — find one at MenopauseSociety.org
- Telehealth options: Midi Health, Alloy, or Gennev specialize in women's hormonal health
⚠️ Be Cautious Of
Compounding pharmacies marketing "custom BHRT" — quality and dosing aren't independently verified.
Bottom line: Ask specifically for FDA-approved bioidentical hormones by name above.