Which bioidentical hormones are the most commonly used?
There are three estrogens made by the ovaries. They are Estradiol (the strongest of the three), Estrone (of intermediate strength), and Estriol (the weakest but safest). The ovary and the placenta make progesterone. On the male side is testosterone. The adrenal gland makes two weaker androgens, DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone), and androstenedione as well as cortisol. Actually, ovaries, testicles and adrenal glands can all make any of these hormones, although the quantities vary. The thyroid hormones, T4 and T3, are bioidentical. Synthroid and Levoxyl are T4 and Cytomel is T3. Humalog is a manufactured hormone identical to human insulin. All of these hormones, as well as some others, are available for purchase at a pharmacy through a doctor’s prescription.
