Hormone replacement pellets are small implants that are placed under the skin to deliver hormones into the bloodstream continuously over a period of 3-6 months. They provide stable hormone levels and avoid fluctuations seen with other forms of hormone therapy.
The pellets themselves are made of hormones that are compressed into very small solid cylinders or discs. The hormones are usually estradiol or testosterone. The actual pellet matrix is composed of:
- Hormone (estradiol or testosterone): This makes up the majority of the pellet itself and provides the active ingredient.
- Sterile microcrystalline cellulose: This helps give the pellets their solid form and regulates the release of the hormone.
- Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC): Acts as a binding agent.
Some additional ingredients that may be present in very small amounts:
- Silicon dioxide
- Magnesium stearate
- Polyethylene glycol
The hormone dosage in each pellet implant is precisely calibrated to meet the patient’s individual needs. The number of pellets inserted will depend on factors like the patient’s hormone status, age, and symptoms. Most patients receive between 1-4 pellets per treatment.
At Revive Hormone Clinic, our experienced medical providers specialize in pellet hormone replacement therapy. We offer both estrogen and testosterone pellet implants formulated to the highest standards.
Some key benefits of our pellet therapy include:
- Convenient 3-6 month treatment
- Steady hormone levels without spikes or drops
- Improved sleep, energy and mood
- Relief of menopausal or andropause symptoms
- Customized dosage and treatment plans
To see if you may be a candidate for pellet therapy, schedule a consultation today with Revive Hormone Clinic to review your health history and develop an individualized plan to help you feel your best.
The pellets are implanted during an brief and minimally invasive office-based procedure done under local anesthetic by a trained provider. A small incision is made in the hip area to create a channel for the pellets. Using a trochar instrument, the pellets are inserted under the skin, and the incision is closed with steri-strips or sutures depending on the provider's preference.
The entire implantation process usually takes only 10-15 minutes. Most patients report little to no discomfort and are able to resume normal activities right after.
Over the next 3-6 months, the hormones are released continuously from the pellet implants as they gradually dissolve. The sustained, low dose delivery more closely mimics the body’s natural hormone patterns compared to traditional therapies.
Patients notice improvements within a few weeks that increase over the first 2-3 months. The effects are gradual as hormone levels build up and cells regain sensitivity. Towards the end of the cycle when the implants are nearly depleted, hormone levels drop off and symptoms may start to recur indicating it's time for a replacement.
The procedure is then repeated to continue therapy— typically on an ongoing basis for perimenopausal and postmenopausal women, and indefinitely for men with low testosterone (
hypogonadism). Removal of the depleted implants isn’t necessary.
We hope this overview on pellet hormone therapy has been helpful. Reach out to Revive Hormone Clinic today to further discuss whether this innovative treatment is right for you! Our knowledgeable staff can answer any other questions you may have.