Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

Hormones play an important role in regulating many functions in the body, including mood, metabolism, and reproductive health. Hormone levels may shift due to factors such as aging, medical conditions, or other physiological changes. When appropriate, a licensed healthcare provider may recommend hormone testing and, if needed, hormone replacement therapy.
Compounded HRT may be prescribed when a customized strength or dosage form is needed to meet an individual patient’s specific needs. These therapies should always be used under the supervision of a licensed healthcare provider.

Hormone Therapy Personalized for Your Needs

Hormone therapy may be considered by a licensed healthcare provider to help manage certain symptoms or conditions related to hormonal changes. These changes can result from various factors, including aging, underlying health conditions, or life stages such as perimenopause, menopause, or postpartum transitions. Any treatment decision should be based on an individual evaluation and provided under the supervision of a licensed healthcare professional.

• Hormone-related concerns may include:

• Irregular menstrual cycles

• Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)

• Mood changes

• Sleep disturbances

• Hot flashes or night sweats

• Vaginal dryness or discomfort during intercourse

• Changes in libido

• Weight fluctuations

• Endometriosis

• Fibrocystic breast discomfort

• Postpartum hormonal shifts

• Infertility concerns

Because each woman’s body and health needs are different, some individuals may require a personalized approach to hormone therapy. When a commercially available medication is not suitable, a licensed healthcare provider may prescribe a compounded hormone therapy. These medications are prepared by a compounding pharmacist in customized strengths and dosage forms to help support individualized treatment plans.

Personalized Approach to Hormone Therapy

No two individuals are exactly alike, and in some cases, a one-size-fits-all approach to hormone therapy may not be appropriate. Compounding is the preparation of customized medications by trained pharmacists, based on a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. Compounded hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may be considered when a patient requires a specific strength or dosage form that is not commercially available.

Some compounded HRT options use bioidentical hormones, hormones that are chemically similar to those produced by the human body. These therapies must be prescribed by a licensed healthcare provider after evaluating a patient’s individual health history, symptoms, and diagnostic testing, which may include hormone level assessments.

Pharmacists experienced in compounding work in collaboration with healthcare providers to prepare medication formulations based on prescriptions. Within their professional scope and applicable regulations, they may also provide input to support the interpretation of test results as part of the healthcare team. Working as part of a care team, a compounding pharmacist helps support the healthcare provider’s treatment plan by preparing medications that align with the prescribed dosage and delivery method.

With a healthcare provider’s prescription, compounded hormones may be prepared in a variety of dosage forms, including:

• Capsules

• Topical or vaginal creams, gels, and foams

• Suppositories

• Sublingual drops or troches

Ongoing communication between the patient, healthcare provider, and pharmacist is important to ensure that therapy remains appropriate and effective. Compounded HRT should only be used under the supervision of a licensed healthcare provider, and adjustments to therapy should always be provider-directed.