Which Bioidentical Delivery Methods are Best?
There are multiple effective options for taking bioidentical hormones - no single method is inherently better overall. The optimal choice depends on your lifestyle, preferences, and convenience.
We offer all leading methods so patients can choose what fits them best:
Method |
Overview |
Considerations |
Creams |
Topical lotions absorb through skin |
Easy to use. Daily application. |
Gels |
Topical clear gels |
Easy to apply. Some skin irritation possible. |
Pellets |
Tiny pellets inserted under skin every ~5 months |
Most consistent dosing. Minor office procedure. |
Tablets |
Oral pills taken daily |
Simple dosing. Processed through digestive system. |
Injections |
Injected liquid into fat/muscle every 1-4 weeks |
Direct dosing into bloodstream. Can cause peaks/troughs if infrequent. |
Sprays |
Liquids sprayed in nose daily |
Easy use. Absorbs across mucous membranes. |
Vaginal Inserts |
Tablets inserted vaginally |
Useful for urogenital symptoms. |
See a more detailed overview of bioidentical hormone delivery methods
Creams - Topical creams deliver hormones efficiently through skin. However, blood levels can fluctuate some based on how consistently it is applied. Brand options include BiEst and Progestelle.
Gels - Like creams, gels administer hormones transdermally for absorption into the bloodstream. They come in calibrated pump dispensers for standardized dosing. Options include Divigel, EstroGel and Testim gels.
Pellets - Compounded hormone pellets about the size of a grain of rice are inserted under the skin in a quick, relatively painless office visit. They offer convenient dosing every 4-6 months. Brands include Testopel and Estradiol pellets.
Tablets - Oral bioidentical hormone pills provide easy standardized dosing but aren't ideal for those with certain digestive issues. Brand options include progesterone capsules like Prometrium and estradiol tablets like Estrace.
Injections - Direct intramuscular injections send hormones straight into the bloodstream so less gets metabolized. However, cycles of peaks and troughs can occur with less frequent dosing. Brand options include testosterone cypionate and estradiol valerate.
Sprays - Convenient nasal sprays provide easy absorption across mucous membranes but could irritate sensitive sinuses. An estradiol spray called Evamist is one option.
Vaginal Inserts - Tablets like Imvexxy vaginally supply estradiol right where needed to improve urogenital tissues. However, they don't address full-body symptoms.
No single approach is right for everyone. We help patients select the optimal regimen based on needs, preferences, sensitivities and convenience.