Hormone pellets, injections, gel or patches: the differences
The main difference is how often you use them and how easily the dose can be adjusted. Pellets last for months but are not easily adjusted once placed. Gels and patches are used daily or several times a week, and can be adjusted or stopped quickly.
Quick comparison
- Pellets: placed at the clinic and last for months.
- Injections: weekly or every few weeks, with rises and falls in levels.
- Gel: daily, and you must avoid passing it to others by contact.
- Patches: changed daily or several times a week, depending on the product.
An important point
There are FDA approved patches, gels and injections. Pellets prepared by compounding pharmacies do not go through that review, and you should know this when deciding.
How to decide
It depends on your symptoms, your history and your preference. Read more about hormone pellets in Miami Lakes.
When to request an evaluation
If your symptoms have lasted weeks and affect your sleep, mood, work or relationship, you do not have to wait until they get worse. At the evaluation I review your history, your medications and the lab work that applies to you, and I tell you clearly what I found and what options you have.
If you are in Miami Lakes or Hialeah
I see patients in English or Spanish in Miami Lakes, minutes from Hialeah, Hialeah Gardens and Miami Gardens. No referral needed. Learn about hormone therapy in Miami Lakes.
Sources
- National Academies: clinical utility of compounded bioidentical hormone therapy
- FDA: compounding laws and policies
- National Institute on Aging: what is menopause
- Endocrine Society: testosterone deficiency guideline
Would you like a visit in Miami Lakes?
Your safety comes first. Pellets are placed only after my evaluation and your lab work, and not everyone is a candidate. Hormone pellets prepared by compounding pharmacies do not go through the FDA review that approved medications have. Like any hormone treatment they have risks and side effects, and other options exist. Results vary from person to person.
Frequently asked questions
Which option is best?
None is best for everyone. It depends on your evaluation.
Can pellets be removed?
It is not simple once they are placed, which is why we evaluate carefully first.
Written by Obdelis Dominguez Romero, MSN, APRN, AGACNP-BC
Family nurse practitioner at OD Vitality, Miami Lakes. See education and license.
This article is for information only and does not replace a medical visit. In an emergency, call 911.
