Pellet injections offer a method for delivering specific substances into the body, providing a sustained release over time. This approach differs from daily oral medications or topical applications by implanting a small, solid form of the substance beneath the skin. The technique is primarily used in hormone therapy, aiming to maintain consistent levels of hormones within the body.
Defining Pellet Injections
Pellet injections involve the placement of small, solid implants, typically about the size of a grain of rice, underneath the skin. These pellets are commonly composed of bioidentical hormones, which are plant-derived and designed to have a molecular structure identical to hormones naturally produced by the human body. Unlike other delivery methods such as pills, patches, or creams, pellets are designed to release their contents consistently over several months. This sustained release avoids the fluctuations in hormone levels that can occur with daily or weekly applications. The composition and small size of these pellets allow for their subcutaneous insertion.
How Pellet Injections Function
Once inserted beneath the skin, typically in the hip or buttocks area, hormone pellets begin to release their contents into the body. This process relies on the body’s natural physiological mechanisms, such as blood flow and cardiac output, to facilitate the slow and consistent absorption of the hormones. The pellets are designed to dissolve gradually over time, continuously supplying hormones directly into the bloodstream. This direct delivery bypasses the liver, which can be advantageous compared to oral hormone therapies that are metabolized by the liver. The steady-state release profile aims to maintain stable hormone levels, potentially reducing the peaks and valleys often associated with other hormone replacement methods.
Primary Uses of Pellet Therapy
Pellet therapy is primarily utilized for hormone replacement, addressing imbalances in both men and women. Pellets deliver hormones such as testosterone and estrogen for Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). For women, this therapy is often employed to alleviate symptoms associated with menopause, including hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and low libido. Testosterone pellets are also used in men to address symptoms of low testosterone, such as fatigue, decreased libido, and reduced energy. This helps restore hormone levels to a more balanced state, improving overall well-being and alleviating symptoms related to hormonal deficiencies.
Receiving Pellet Injections
Receiving pellet injections involves a minor in-office procedure taking about 10-15 minutes, where a healthcare professional first numbs a small area of skin, usually in the upper buttocks or hip, using a local anesthetic. A small incision is then made to insert the pellet(s) just beneath the skin using a specialized instrument. After insertion, the incision is usually closed with Steri-Strips or a small bandage, and stitches are generally not required. The effects of the pellets typically last between three to five months for women and four to six months for men, though this can vary based on individual metabolism and activity levels. Follow-up appointments monitor hormone levels and determine when new pellets are needed, ensuring continuous therapeutic benefits.