Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.
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Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D. |
Bio-Identical Hormones And Menopause
Power Surge™ Live!
Host: Dearest
Guest: Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.
Naturally Compounded Hormones
 About Pete Hueseman |
 Ask The Pharmacist |
(Pete Hueseman, R.Ph, R.D.'s 19th visit to Power Surge) Dearest: My guest tonight is Pete, Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D. Pete has been a Registered Pharmacist for 30 years. Although Pete is a registered pharmacist and dispense all sorts of prescription medications, he's focused his area of expertise on women's healthcare, and to naturally compounded, bio-identical (human identical) hormones, such as estradiol, estriol, estrone, tri-estrogen, micronized progesterone, DHEA, testosterone, pregnenolone. Pete specializes in counseling patients and physicians on the use of natural hormones. He advises patients and physicians, nationwide, and is an acknowledged expert on the use of *natural* hormones or NHRT (natural hormone replacement therapy). Pete is professionally associated with NAMS, the Academy of Alternative Medicine, Alternative and Complementary Medicine Association, and is registered with more than one professional Pharmacist's Association. Pete is the co-owner of Bellevue Pharmacy Solutions. Pete, it's great to welcome you back to Power Surge :) Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: Thanks for the nice introduction, and it is a great pleasure to be here tonight. Dearest: Pete, it seems to me that many doctors and women's health experts are trying to minimize the significance of the halted Women's Health Initiative Study and the negative role of synthetic hormones. What are your thoughts? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: I agree, it should be minimized, the study was done in mostly very old women, and did not reveal the entire story at all. Estrogen does help memory, and concentration, and I don't think it really causes Alzheimer's at all. It helps relieve most symptoms, and if prescribed properly relieves most vasomotor symptoms and it is much safer to use than the synthetics, which were used in the study; NOT natural bioidentical hormones. Dearest: I'm talking about synthetic hormones, such as PremPro (Premarin and Provera) that were used in the study. Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: They do cause increase breast cancer, bloating weight gain, breast tenderness and etc. when synthetic. Dearest: Ok, we're on the same page now, Pete :) Thanks. HeleneE: Can I safely use compounded progesterone cream every day now that I am almost at menopause? It has really helped me. Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: You can use it safely, yes, but if you get any breast tenderness or bloating or weight gain, then stop in for 7 days each month, so you can have some relief from it. Goodheart: I have used bioidentical ERT (I had a hysterectomy with ovaries preserved). I have used all forms of estrogen, progesterone and testosterone and nothing works for hot flashes, palpitations (etc). What is your opinion on "bioidentical" HRT injectables (E2 Cypionate/T Cypionate - 4mg/100mg monthly) or pellets versus oral HRT, creams and troches which has a short half life and was ineffective? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: The injectables work, but are somewhat painful, the pellets are excellent to use, but we do a great job with our sublingual tablets. They can be used daily and the dose can be adjusted more quickly if need be. They also do bypass the stomach and liver in the first pass through the system also. Goodheart: I have used sublingual with no success. Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: Goodheart then call me at the pharmacy, I will see if I can figure it out for you. Are you using my product? Maybe now it is time to try something else, like a gel or cream or pellets. My number is 1-800-728-0288. Paula1649: Is there a relationship between estrogen levels and blood sugar levels? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: There can be a relationship, but usually it is not significant. Blood sugar levels usually decline when natural progesterone is added in. D0nab: My mom, 77 years old, has been taking Estradiol .5mg for 15 years, since she had her hysterectomy. She has flashes and sweats a lot. What are thoughts on that? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: She needs a dose adjustment, and a larger dose can still be needed at the older age; I have some 82 and 84 year olds using 1. mg per day. D0nab: And it is ok for her to still be taking that? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: Yes, your Mother can safely use the estradiol at 77 years old. IndigoBuddha1: What is the approximate cost of bio-identical hormones? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: It depends on what you need. If you have insurance, maybe you will only pay a co pay. But for an average cash price it can be about $55.00 to 65.00 per month. SG12856: I can handle all the symptoms except for the hot flashes and night sweats. What can I take for them? Looking for something natural. Is there anything I should eliminate from my diet? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: I would say you need our natural bioidentical estrogen, called Bi-Est, and it does require a prescription from your doctor. Call me and I can tell you the dose to have him or her prescribe for you. Dearest: Pete, why don't you explain what Bi-Est is and why you recommend that combination. Thanks. Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: Bi-Est is 80% Estriol mixed with 20% estradiol, and the most common dose is 2.5mg. per day or even twice a day. That would be 2.mg. of Estriol and 0.5 mg of estradiol per dose. Ksavanha: I use Premarin and need something to help. Do you need a prescription for the bio hormones? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: You do need a prescription for the bioidentical prescriptions, and if you call in to the Pharmacy, I will help you figure out what to have the doctor order from us for you. You will stop the Premarin once you start the new bioidentical HRT. Wonka8896: What does Bi-Est do for you? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: Bi-Est is a natural bioidentical estrogen that helps to relieve the vasomotor symptoms, helps to prevent bone loss also, helps memory, helps vaginal dryness and incontinence. Dearest: Bi-Est is actually two estrogens, isn't it, Pete? Stoney92: My doctor just switched me from Triest to Bi-Est saying it is safer, less likely to cause cancer. I'm post-menopausal and symptomatic, but my main concern is osteoporosis, which I have. I'm convinced that progesterone builds bone, (which I get in a cream) so do I need the estrogen at all? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: Yes, the estrogen helps prevent bone loss. The progesterone can build bone as can testosterone, but if you build all day long, and don't prevent loss, then you will get nowhere. Rhhjc: Do hot flashes, low libido, etc.. last forever past 55 and is it really necessary to take natural hormones? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: It can last for a long time, and you can be miserable if you don't use something. The best HRT is the natural bioidentical HRT, which is what we specialize in. SuzanneKut: How does Cenestin differ from bio-identical hormones? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: Cenestin is conjugated Estrogen "A". It is derived from soy but anything conjugated becomes synthetic, and is no longer considered natural. LynneMMK: I have been post-menopausal for 5 years. I am starting on bio- identical hormones for osteopenia in my hip and osteoporosis in my spine. I am on Synthroid for hypothyroidism (2 months). I would prefer a bio- identical hormone to treat the hypothyroidism. What is the natural base of the bio-identical hormone and why is it better than the Synthroid? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: Well, the Synthroid is for the thyroid, and may still be needed. The hormones that are bioidentical would be the estrogen, progesterone testosterone and maybe even some DHEA. These have less side effects than the synthetic, and less risky for cancer. Dearest: Pete, Lynne may be talking about Armour to treat her hypothyroidism. Am I right, Lynne? LynneMMK: The doctor mentioned that but I was wondering if there was something else that would be natural to take, not animal based. Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: Armour is a combination of T-4 about 80% (Synthroid) mixed with T-3 about 20% which is liothyronine, much more natural and an even dose for the human body, and the Armour is derived from pigs. WhyVon: I am currently trying to get adjusted to bio-identical HRT. I had lots of trouble with both Tri-Est and Bi-Est i.e. spotting and bad joint/muscle ache. I am only using progesterone cream right now. Any thoughts on symptoms, and what adjustment to make at this point? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: Do you buy it from my Pharmacy? If so, call and we can help you figure it out, if not then I wouldn't know what doses you are on. I feel we can help you out. It does take some time to consult with you, and a phone call would be best here. Ganma7: What would be your opinion on using Revival Soy to replace HRT, doing it gradually, of course? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: You can try it. The Revival is a great supplement, but if you get uncomfortable, use a lower dose of the bioidentical HRT along with the Revival. SG12856: Is there certain foods or beverages that you should avoid to help with the hot flashes and night sweats? The reason I ask is because I have no medical insurance. Dearest: SG, there are terrific articles on Power Surge in the "Educate Your Body" library. I recommend you read the article on Power Surge Menopause Survival Tips - it talks about foods to avoid. PeteHueseman: Avoid sugars and caffeine drinks and alcohol. SG12856: Lots of caffeine here. Dearest: Avoid caffeine. Stel0324: I take bioidentical hormones and still have problems. 100 mg Prometrium, .5 estradial. I get withdrawal bleeding when it's time to start taking the Prometrium again, 9 days now and I'm still bleeding. 200mg of Prometrium makes me drowsy, more estradial makes me bleed erratically. Now I'm having night sweats. I'm 52. What can I do? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: I would go off for about 7 days, and regroup, even do a saliva test, and check the levels for what you are now taking, then let's re-evaluate your situation, and make some new recommendations. I am thinking of using a Bi-Est sublingual tablet and cycle the progesterone sublingually with it. Stel0324: Go off both hormones? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: Yes, off of both for a short while. Stoney92: My "holistic M.D." is encouraging me to use a compounded phytoestrogen cream or a new homeopathic estrogen which she says encourages the body to make its own estrogen. Any comment on that? I'm 55. Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: It doesn't work very well at all, but you can try it and no harm will be done. Then get back to me for a real natural bioidentical HRT dose to suggest the doctor to order for you. Dearest: Stoney, just curious, but does she sell this homeopathic estrogen? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: Good question, is the doctor selling these items to you? Stoney92: I think she would just put me in touch with the company. Molomaf: Do I have to be in total menopause to use HRT? Dearest: No Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: No, you do NOT have to be in total menopause, which is to not bleed for 1 entire year. In fact, most women will feel better to start on something early, and then it won't be a shock to the system. Luvenia: I have been taking EstratestHS for 20 years. My Dr. recently told me he did not see any need to continue. I have slacked off. Now I have hot flashes, etc. What do you suggest I take in its place? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: We have a Bi-Est low dose plus testosterone low dose in a sublingual tablet that could replace it for you, and relieve the hot flashes nicely. 2 items in one sublingual tablet. LynneMMK: So, am I understanding correctly that the testosterone and DHEA would be used to treat the hypothyroidism in place of the Synthroid? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: No, wrong. The Armour thyroid would be used for the Synthroid. The osteoporosis and or bone problems would be treated with Bi-Est plus Testosterone, and maybe add in some DHEA. Armour thyroid is the answer to natural for the thyroid and will replace the Synthroid. Dearest: Lynn, I use Armour - it's excellent - natural - I highly recommend using it. I couldn't use Synthroid or Levoxyl. BakerMH: Can I be tested for hormone levels now when I am still peri- menopausal or are my hormones fluctuating too much since every month is different? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: When still cycling, you will do the saliva test on day 21 of the cycle; that is the best we can do, since the system does fluctuate with time, but then we compare day 21 to 21 the next test time too. Stel0324: Can bioidentical hormones trigger migraines like synthetic hormones? I get nasty migraines too, usually at the time of my "period". Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: They can if not dosed properly. Usually this time of the month if you get a headache, then extra natural progesterone is needed; or sometimes we add in a small dose of the estrogen. Dearest: Personally, I got a migraine from orally ingested bio-identicals which I did/do not get from transdermal bio-identicals and I'm postmenopausal. Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: At the time of the period, sometimes only Bi- Eest is needed, if your level is too low as you start the new cycle. Victoria-1: I have been taking Revival Soy for two years for palpitations and hot flashes. I've been okay since. This week started having intense headaches. Seemed like a migraine. Can bioidenticals help? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: Yes, I would try some bioidentical HRT to ago along with the Revival. Call me to get a dose suggestion to have your doctor order for you. RevyGirl: I am a year old 41 with Premature Ovarian Failure (POF) and I'm hypothyroid too. I have been doing lots of research on NHRT and am wondering if it is true that HRT only masks the symptoms and that bio- identical hormones work like your own missing hormones. Should I see a endocrinologist because I have the thyroid condition as well as menopause? Thanks. Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: Your current doctor should be fine, if the thyroid is under control, and I can help to guide you and he with the HRT suggestions to go along with the thyroid therapy. You are correct in your thinking about how they work and will help you in a much better fashion. RevyGirl: Thank you. I will call. Stoney92: About Revival. I'm reading and hearing lots of negative things about unfermented soy. Does Revival fit in that category? Any negatives to it? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: I believe it is fine to use. Dearest: I can only tell you tens of thousands of women use Revival and feel wonderful on it - if that' s a negative, that's the only one I know of. My 92 year old mother lived on soy for years and my dad did, too, and he lived to 94. I will point you to an article to read. It has nothing to do with fermented or non-fermented. It has to do with the quality of the soy isolates. Luvenia: Does the testosterone increase libido? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: Yes, it helps libido increase in most people, men and women. WVaOne: I am 45 and in perimenopause. Would a low progesterone hormone level cause me to not have periods? I have not had one now for 3 months. It's my second 3-month occurrence in 18 months. Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: Usually this is due to very low progesterone, but you may also have low estrogen levels. We can supply you with a saliva test, and we will help you check both. Riverwalker: How often do you get the dosage right the first time from a saliva test? It sounds like there's a lot of tweaking needed. Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: I can usually get you within 85 to 90% of the correct dose on the first try, I have been doing this a long time, and have developed quite a knack for it, and help thousands of women. Leslie1953: If I wanted to try bio-identical hormones, what would be my first step? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: The first step is to call me at the Pharmacy, do a consultation with me, maybe order a saliva test, then I will make a recommendation for you to have your doctor order, and then I will help. You fine tune it as time goes on. ZJSurfer: I just wanted to comment that the testosterone cream does help libido and Pete has been very helpful in working with me to get that worked out! Thanks! Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: Thank you Dearest: That's great, Zelma. Pete has been Power Surge's pharmaceutical consultant, especially on bio-identical hormones for nine years. That's a long time and I have never once - not even once heard anything but praise about him. Are you blushing, Pete? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: Yes, I am Dearest: Well, it's true and you know I only speak the truth. Lyonsie: I have been on bio-identical hormones for about 2 years and feel great, but wonder about the dangers that are associated with regular HRT that came out in the news last year, increased breast cancer, strokes, etc. Have there been any significant testing done on "natural" hormones vs. synthetic? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: No, there has not been any significant testing done, but we have not seen a very big number of breast cancer cases from those using the bioidentical HRT either, but that is anecdotal info. GolfinGranny: After you start using the bio-identical hormones, how long should it be before you notice a change in the way you feel? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: You will usually see some improvement in 5 to 10 days, and better improvement over the first 3 weeks. SG12856: Will a saliva test tell how far into menopause you are? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: I wouldn't say how far in you are, but how low or high your levels are. Then along with symptoms, we will suggest a dose from this information. Luvenia: Do I need a prescription for the testosterone cream? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: Yes, you absolutely do. In fact it is a controlled substance. We will ask you to have your doctor phone the prescription to my Pharmacy. If you need help on what to have he or she order, then please call me first for a dose suggestion. Dearest: Pete, thank you once again for educating women about our hormones and menopause. If anyone has further questions about naturally compounded hormones, you can ask Pete by typing into your browser, www.power-surge.com/asktheexperts.htm and Pete will get back to you on any questions regarding natural hormones and menopause, or you can call him at 1-800-728-0288 or E.mail him directly at consultph@bpharmacysolutions.com. Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: It has been a great pleasure to be online with you all again, and hopefully I have answered your good questions to your satisfaction. Read Pete Hueseman's first transcript Read Pete Hueseman's second transcript Read Pete Hueseman's third transcript Read Pete Hueseman's fourth transcript Read Pete Hueseman's fifth transcript Read Pete Hueseman's sixth transcript Read Pete Hueseman's seventh transcript Read Pete Hueseman's eighth transcript Read Pete Hueseman's ninth transcript Read Pete Hueseman's tenth transcript Read Pete Hueseman's eleventh transcript Read Pete Hueseman's twelfth transcript Read Pete Hueseman's thirteenth transcript Read Pete Hueseman's fourteenth transcript Read Pete Hueseman's fifteenth transcript Read Pete Hueseman's sixteenth transcript Read Pete Hueseman's seventeenth transcript Read Pete Hueseman's eigthteenth transcript Read Pete Hueseman's twentieth transcript Read Pete Hueseman's twenty first transcript Read Pete Hueseman's twenty second transcript Disclaimer: Every guest in Power Surge is a highly respected professional whose opinions are his/her own. An appearance in Power Surge does not constitute an endorsement of a guest's views. None of these transcripts may be reprinted or reproduced without the express permission of Power Surge™ and the respective guest. Read other transcripts by returning to the Library. Dearest aka Alice Stamm Power Surge Founder, Facilitator, Host Copyright©1994-2008 by Power Surge. All Rights Reserved.