Data supports that TRT using pellet implants is the most effective and the most bio-identical method to deliver hormones in both men and women. When placed under the skin, pellet implants can consistently release small, measured doses of hormones, providing optimal therapy over a period of months.
What are testosterone pellets?
Testosterone pellets consist of testosterone that has been pressed or fused into very small solid cylinders. These pellets are approximately the size of an uncooked grain of rice. The majority of pellets are made by compounding pharmacists and are delivered in sterile glass vials.
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The hormone pellets available at Ontario Regenerative Medicine undergo multiple rigorous sterilization protocols and potency testing procedures.
Why choose pellets?
Pellets have the ability to deliver consistent, steady optimized levels of hormones for approximately 3 months in women, and 4 months in men. Pellet implants avoid the fluctuations of hormone levels associated with every other method of delivery, an important aspect in maintaining optimal health and disease prevention. Additionally, pellets do not increase the risk of blood clots like conventional or synthetic hormone replacement therapy.
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Studies have shown that when compared to conventional hormone replacement therapy, pellets are superior for relief of menopausal symptoms, maintenance of bone density, restoration of sleep patterns, and improvement in sex drive, libido, sexual response and performance.
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Testosterone pellet implants have been used to treat the following in women:
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Migraines and menstrual headaches
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PMS
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Vaginal dryness
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Incontinence
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Urinary urgency and frequency
In both men and women, testosterone has been shown to:
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Increase energy
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Relieve depression
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Increase sense of well being
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Relieve anxiety
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Improve memory and concentration
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Increase lean body mass
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Decrease fat mass
Both men and women require adequate levels of testosterone to maintain optimal physical and mental health and for the prevention of chronic illnesses like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, which are associated with low testosterone levels.
Pellets have been used in both men and women since the late 1930’s and there is more data to support the use of pellets than any other method of hormone delivery. Even those patients who have failed other types of hormone therapy have presented a very high success rate with pellets.
How and where are pellets inserted?
The insertion of pellets is a relatively simple, painless procedure done under local anesthesia. The pellets are usually inserted in the upper buttocks through a tiny incision, which only requires a couple of steri-strips (medical tape). The small dressing is removed in two days. There is no "downtime" associated with the insertion of pellets.
Are there any side effects or complications from the insertion of the pellets?
Complications related to the insertion of pellets are extremely rare and may include minor bleeding or bruising, discoloration of the skin or a minor infection. These are all rare and are easily addressed. In rare circumstances there may be the extrusion of one of the pellets.
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After the insertion of the implants, men and women can return to regular activities immediately. Vigorous physical activity, hot tubs and swimming should be avoided for 5 to 7 days. Early significant physical activity may cause ‘extrusion’, which is the process by which a pellet works its way out of the site of placement. In cases where a patient is diabetic or has had a joint replaced, antibiotics may be prescribed as a precautionary measure.
Do men need hormone therapy?
Testosterone levels in men generally begin to decline in their early 30’s. While most men maintain adequate levels of testosterone into their mid 40’s and 50’s, most men should be tested before the age of 50. Men should be tested when they begin to show signs of testosterone deficiency, which may include; a decrease in energy levels, loss of muscle mass and tone, an increase in intra-abdominal fat, fatigue, depression, a decrease in sexual arousal or performance, erectile dysfunction, difficulty sleeping and mental decline.
What if my primary care physician or my gynecologist says that there is ‘no data’ to support the use of pellet implants?
Unfortunately, it is often easier for busy practitioners to dismiss the patient, than it is to question their beliefs and do the research. Patient’s need to make an informed choice. There is data to support the ‘long term’ safety of bioidentical hormones delivered by pellet implants. You can view a multitude of studies supporting the safety and efficacy of hormone therapy in the "Case Studies" section of our website.
Do pellets have the same danger of breast cancer as other forms of hormone replacement therapy?
Bioidentical testosterone pellets do not carry with them the increased risk of breast cancer associated with oral estrogens. There is research that supports bioidentical testosterone pellets decrease the incidence the rate of breast cancer and indicates testosterone is breast protective. Testosterone, delivered by pellet implantation, has been shown to decrease breast proliferation and lower the risk of breast cancer, even compared to patients on conventional hormone replacement therapy. Studies have shown that bioidentical testosterone balances estrogen and is breast protective. The same cannot be said for oral, synthetic methyl-testosterone found in Estratest®. The body converts this to a potent synthetic estrogen, which stimulates breast tissue. In the past, testosterone implants have been used to treat patients with advanced breast cancer. In 1940, it was theorized that treating patients with testosterone implants earlier, at the time of diagnosis, would have an even greater benefit, preventing recurrence. Androgens have also been shown to enhance the effect of Tamoxifen® therapy in breast cancer patients. To review studies that support these statements, please refer to the articles listed as references below.
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References
1. Glaser R, Wurtzbacher, D, Dimitrakakis C. Efficacy of Testosterone Therapy Delivered by Pellet Implant. Maturitas 2009, 63(Suppl 1);283.
To read this study, please click HERE
2. Dimitrakakis C, Bondy C. Androgens and the breast. Breast Cancer Research 2009;11(5):212.
To read this study, please click HERE
3. Traish AM, Fetten K, Minor M, Hansen ML, Guay A. Testosterone and risk of breast cancer: appraisal of existing evidence. Hormone Molecular Biology and Clinical Investigation. 2010; 2 (1): 177
To read this study, please click HERE
Will hormone therapy with pellets help with hair loss?
Hormone deficiency is a common cause of hair loss, and treatment with testosterone implants can help to re-grow hair in many women. Hair often becomes thicker and less dry with pellet therapy.
How long until a patient feels better after pellets are inserted?
Some patients begin to notice improvement within 24-48 hours, while others may take several weeks or more to first notice changes. Diet and lifestyle, along with hormone balance are critical for optimal health.
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