By Becca Mitchell

Recent discussion of bioidentical hormones on the Oprah Winfrey Show has prompted national attention to a form of hormone replacement that US Compounding has been providing for years. Bioidentical hormones are an alternative to “synthetic,” “patented,” or “conventional” hormone replacement options.

“Bioidentical” means these hormones have the exact chemical structure as hormones that are made by the human body, compared to chemically altered hormones offered by commercial manufacturers. 
Researchers have long held that there are significant differences between hormones that are natural to humans (bioidentical) and conventional preparations. Structural differences that exist in conventional hormones can be responsible for side effects that are experienced when they are used for replacement therapy. Bioidentical hormones are chemically processed from precursors found in yam or soy plants, yet they are identical in structure to the hormones produced naturally by the human body. Bioidentical hormones have been used for decades and are widely used in Europe over synthetic alternatives.
Symptoms of a hormone imbalance can include abdominal weight gain, hot flashes, night sweats, irritability, decreased sex drive, fatigue, dry skin or hair, heavy or irregular menses, difficulty sleeping and MANY more. The benefits of bioidentical hormones include fewer side effects versus synthetic derivatives, individualized therapy, and positive benefits of estrogen, testosterone and progesterone balance. Bioidentical hormones can be compounded in various dosage forms, including creams, capsules and lozenges.
At US Compounding, we have worked with hundreds of patients for whom we have customized hormone replacement regimens designed specifically for their individual symptoms, lifestyles, medical histories and hormone levels. We work with both male and female patients with ages ranging from late teens to 70s. 
The first step on the road to hormone balance is setting up an appointment to review your medical history and symptoms. A simple saliva test you do at home gives us a picture of your hormone levels and how your body metabolizes these hormones. Based on these results, we work with your physician to provide you with customized hormone prescriptions. 
We also specialize in pharmaceutical grade vitamins and supplements, are launching an individualized weight loss program, and have a new line of high-end skincare products.
At US Compounding, we treat the whole patient, with the ultimate goal of improved overall health and well-being. For many patients, hormone balance is just the first step toward a whole new life. 
Don’t settle for the “one size fits all” mentality when it comes to hormone balance and your health. Let US Compounding design a hormone replacement regimen specifically for you.
Located at 2515 College Ave. in Conway, US Compounding is an area leader in bioidentical hormone replacement therapy. Pharmacists Kristen Riddle, Becca Mitchell and Eddie Glover and nurse Lisa Ortega have over a decade of experience in this exciting area of healthcare. They can be reached 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Monday – Friday at 501.327.1222 to answer any questions and schedule appointments.