Verbatim response from Claude
Bioidentical Hormones vs. Standard HRT
Standard HRT
These are FDA-approved hormone medications that may contain:
- Synthetic hormones (like medroxyprogesterone acetate)
- Animal-derived hormones (like Premarin, made from pregnant mare urine)
- Chemically modified versions different from your body's natural hormones
Popular brands: Premarin, Prempro, Provera
Bioidentical Hormones
These have a molecular structure identical to hormones your body produces naturally (estradiol, progesterone, testosterone).
Two categories:
- FDA-approved bioidenticals - rigorously tested for safety and dosing
- Compounded bioidenticals - custom-mixed by pharmacies, less regulated
Recommended Options
FDA-approved bioidenticals (generally safer choice):
- Estrace (estradiol) - widely trusted oral option
- Vivelle-Dot - estradiol patch, popular for steady delivery
- Prometrium - natural progesterone, well-studied
- Bijuva - combined bioidentical option
Compounding pharmacies like Women's International Pharmacy are reputable if you need customized dosing.
Important Note
⚠️ Consult a doctor or menopause specialist (look for NAMS-certified practitioners) before choosing - individual health history matters significantly.