Pellets are one of many ways we can give bioidentical hormones. Pellets are made of bioidentical estrogen or testosterone which is pressed or fused into very small solid cylinders about the size of a ‘Tic Tac’. Pellets have been used in both men and women since the late 1930’s. In the United States, the majority of pellets are made by compounding pharmacists and delivered in sterile glass vials. There are ’FDA approved’ 75 mg testosterone pellets.

Pellets deliver consistent levels of hormones for approximately 3 months. They avoid the fluctuations of hormone levels seen with most other methods of delivery. There is data to support the long-term safety of hormones delivered by pellet implants. Even patients who have failed other types of hormone therapy have a high success rate with pellets.

The insertion of pellets is a simple, painless procedure done in the office under local anesthesia. The pellets are inserted in the upper buttocks through a small incision, which is then taped closed with sterile-strips. The experience of the health care professional matters a great deal, not only in placing the pellets but also in determining the correct dosage of hormones to be used.

With hormone therapy, you may notice more energy, better sleep, and improved mood. Muscle mass and bone density may increase while fatty tissue decreases. You may notice increased strength and physical performance and an improvement in skin tone and hair texture. Concentration and memory may improve, as will overall physical and sexual health. Libido typically is improved.

Some people begin to ‘feel better’ within 48 hours, while others may take a week or two to notice a difference.

The pellets usually alleviate symptoms for 3-4 months. They completely dissolve on their own and do not need to be removed.

Hormone levels will be evaluated before therapy is started. Levels will be reevaluated prior to insertion of the next set of pellets in 3 months. After the first year of therapy, hormone levels may be followed less frequently.