Hormone pellets deliver Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) to restore hormone levels in both men and women. This system involves the subcutaneous implantation of small, solid compounds containing hormones like testosterone or estradiol. Unlike daily pills or creams, pellets are designed to release hormones consistently over an extended period. This delivery method is often chosen by patients and practitioners for its convenience and ability to maintain stable hormone concentrations in the bloodstream.
Physical Appearance and Composition
Hormone pellets are small, firm, solid cylinders or ovals, often compared in size to a grain of rice or a small Tic Tac. Their diminutive size allows for a minimally invasive insertion procedure. The pellets are typically white or off-white in color and are compounded specifically for each patient’s hormonal needs.
The composition consists primarily of bio-identical hormones, which are chemically identical to the hormones naturally produced by the human body. These hormones are usually derived from plant sources and pressed into a solid form, often without binders or fillers. The active ingredient is most commonly testosterone, estradiol, or a combination, depending on the patient’s prescription.
The Subcutaneous Insertion Procedure
The placement of the hormone pellet is a quick, in-office procedure performed just beneath the skin’s surface. The insertion site is typically in the fatty tissue of the hip or upper outer buttock area. This location is chosen because the subcutaneous fat layer provides an ideal environment for the steady absorption of the hormones.
The procedure begins by thoroughly cleaning and sterilizing the insertion site, followed by injecting a local anesthetic to numb the area. Once the area is completely numb, the practitioner makes a small incision, usually about 5 millimeters long, using a scalpel. A specialized, hollow insertion device called a trocar is then used to create a tiny pocket in the subcutaneous fat layer.
The pellet is loaded into the trocar and carefully deposited into this pocket under the skin. After positioning the pellet, the trocar is removed, and the small incision is closed, typically with sterile adhesive strips or surgical tape. The entire process is minimally invasive, usually taking less than 15 minutes, and patients can generally resume most normal daily activities immediately afterward.
Hormone Release Mechanism and Longevity
Hormone pellets release their contents through dissolution and absorption by the surrounding tissue, providing a consistent hormone supply. The hormones are slowly dissolved by the interstitial fluid surrounding the pellet in the fatty tissue, rather than relying on a coating or mechanical breakdown for release.
The rate of hormone release is significantly influenced by the body’s cardiac output and blood flow. Increased blood flow, such as during physical activity or stress, facilitates the absorption of slightly more hormone, effectively meeting the body’s increased demand. This mechanism helps maintain more stable hormone levels compared to the fluctuations often seen with daily oral or topical applications.
The pellets are formulated to deliver a continuous dose of hormones over a period of three to six months. Longevity varies based on individual metabolism, hormone dosage, and lifestyle factors; men often experience a slightly longer duration than women. The pellets are designed to be completely absorbed by the body over this time and do not require a surgical procedure for removal.