Tibolone is not considered a bioidentical hormone. Bioidentical hormones are hormones that are identical in molecular structure to the hormones naturally produced in the human body. Tibolone has a different molecular structure and mechanism of action compared to natural estrogen, progesterone and testosterone.
Tibolone is a synthetic steroid hormone that has estrogenic, progestogenic, and androgenic properties. It is used mainly in Europe and Asia for the treatment of menopausal symptoms and osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. Tibolone is not approved for use in the United States.
Some key differences between tibolone and bioidentical hormones:
- Bioidentical estrogen like estradiol has the same molecular structure as estrogen produced by the ovaries. Tibolone does not - it converts into metabolites that act like estrogen in the body.
- Bioidentical progesterone like progesterone has the same molecular structure as progesterone produced by the ovaries. Tibolone does not - one of its metabolites acts like progesterone.
- Bioidentical testosterone has the same molecular structure as testosterone produced by the adrenal glands and ovaries. Tibolone does not - one of its metabolites has androgenic effects similar to testosterone.
So in summary, tibolone is not a bioidentical hormone because it has a different molecular structure from the natural sex hormones in the body. It is a synthetic steroid that exerts its effects through metabolism into compounds that resemble estrogen, progesterone and testosterone.
Some key
benefits of tibolone highlighted in research:
- Relief of menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats and vaginal dryness
- Prevention of bone loss and fractures in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis
- Improvement in sexual function in postmenopausal women
- Possible beneficial effects on mood and quality of life
However, there are also some
potential risks with tibolone:
- Increased risk of stroke compared to estrogen-only or combined estrogen-progestin therapy
- Adverse effects on blood lipids with decreased HDL and increased triglycerides
- Possible increased risk of ovarian cancer with long-term use
- Contraindicated in women with history of breast cancer
In contrast, bioidentical hormone replacement therapy offers a more natural approach to hormone balance. Bioidentical hormones are chemically identical to those produced in the human body and may have a more favorable safety profile.
Some key
benefits of bioidentical hormones:
- Relief of menopausal symptoms
- Prevention of bone loss with improved bone density
- Cardioprotective effects like maintaining healthy cholesterol levels
- Improved energy levels and sense of wellbeing
- Customized dosing and regimens based on lab testing
At
Harmony Hormone Clinic, we specialize in comprehensive
bioidentical hormone replacement therapy for women and men. Our experienced clinicians use lab testing to identify any hormone imbalances and customize appropriate bioidentical hormones and dosing to help patients achieve optimal hormone levels and experience the many benefits of BHRT.
We offer bioidentical estradiol, progesterone, testosterone and
DHEA. For women dealing with symptoms of
hormone imbalance like hot flashes, night sweats,
low libido and weight gain, BHRT can help restore hormone levels to alleviate symptoms and promote wellbeing.
For aging men, testosterone and DHEA replacement helps maintain energy, virility, muscle mass, bone strength and vitality. Thyroid and cortisol imbalances can also be addressed with bioidentical hormones.
At Harmony Hormone Clinic, we believe in a holistic approach to hormone balance and aging well. Contact us today to learn more and schedule a consultation with one of our highly trained hormone specialists. We look forward to helping you optimize your hormone health and live your best life!
