FAQs- Bio-identical Hormones

What are Bio-identical hormones?

Bio-identical hormones have exactly the same chemical structures as the hormones that we naturally produce in our bodies. These bio-identical hormones are derived mainly from plants such as soy or wild yam. Examples of such hormones include Estriol, Estradiol, Estrone, Progesterone and Testosterone. Our compounding pharmacists formulate hormonal preparations according to the doctor's prescription to match each individual's needs. Top

Are measuring hormone levels important?

Hormones are the chemical messengers in our body. Therefore, the body needs proper hormonal balance to function efficiently. If the hormone levels become imbalanced, inefficiency will occur in the body. Thus, measuring hormone levels is a helpful way of deciding the amount of hormones to be replaced in order for a person to lead a healthy hormonal balanced life. Top

How are bio-identical hormones beneficial to individuals?

Both men and women may benefit from therapy with bio-identical hormones.

For andropausal men, treatment is necessary to restore strength, vitality and quality of life. Bio-identical testosterone supplementation can be used in therapy for males to help restore mood, muscle mass, sexual function and energy levels.

Replacing hormones like estrogen and progesterone may help to relieve menopausal symptoms, prevent osteoporosis and mental decline and may be protective to the heart in menopausal women. Hormone imbalances can also be corrected with bio-identical hormone therapy along with restoration of normal menstrual cycle in younger females.

Bio-identical hormones however, should be initiated under the supervision of a qualified medical practitioner and regularly monitoring is required for best results. Top

How does a person get bio-identical hormones?

Before we compound bio-identical hormones, a valid prescription has to be presented and this can be obtained from a qualified medical practitioner registered in Singapore. In Singapore, bio-identical hormones are only available at compounding pharmacies. Top

What is a compounding pharmacy?

Compounding pharmacists are trained and certified pharmacists who are qualified to mix medications and hormone formulas according to your doctor/ physician's prescription. They can prepare treatments specially designed for each individual patient. Here at Amber, our pharmacists have been trained and are members of the Professional Compounding Chemist of Australia. Top

Are compounded bio-identical hormones more expensive than regular hormones?

The overall cost of compounded bio-identical hormones is comparable with synthetic hormones which are available commercially.

The overall cost of bio-identical hormone therapy is divided into three parts. Firstly, a consultation with your doctor. Secondly, laboratory tests such as blood or saliva to determine hormone levels. Thirdly, the compounded medication itself. Compounded medication can cost less than commercially available medication in instances where the ingredient costs are low and can cost more when formulations are complicated or ingredient costs are high. Top

What is the difference between commercially available medication and compounded medication?

Commercially available medications are drugs that are produced with no specific patient in mind. This limits the doctor/ physician to matching the available product to the patient. With compounded medications, the formula matches the patients' needs. This is especially useful when prescribing bio-identical hormones. Hence, the drug can be prepared in the most effective dosage and strength. Top

Does my doctor know about compounding?

Prescription compounding is rapidly growing in many physicians' practices in the world today. In fact, bio-identical hormones have been around for more than 50 years and wildly used in Australian and European countries. However, in Singapore it is still not widely known. Please inform your doctor if he or she is not aware of our compounding services, we would be more than happy to assist in providing more information. Top