Subcutaneous Hormone Pellets: What They Are and How They Work
Understanding Subcutaneous Hormone Pellets: A Revolutionary Approach to Hormone Balance
Subcutaneous hormone pellets are tiny, rice-sized implants placed under the skin that deliver bioidentical hormones directly into your bloodstream over several months. These pellets offer a convenient alternative to daily hormone creams, patches, or pills by providing steady, consistent hormone levels.
Quick Facts about Subcutaneous Hormone Pellets:
- Size: About the size of a grain of rice
- Duration: Last 3-6 months (varies by gender and activity level)
- Hormones: Typically contain testosterone, estradiol, or both
- Insertion: Simple office procedure with local anesthetic
- Benefits: Steady hormone levels, no daily dosing, reduced side effects
- Candidates: Men and women experiencing hormone imbalance symptoms
As we age, hormone production declines. Women experience a dramatic drop during menopause, and men face a gradual decline (andropause) starting in their 30s. This can cause fatigue, mood swings, reduced libido, hot flashes, and other symptoms that impact quality of life.
Hormone pellet therapy has been used for decades. The pellets contain bioidentical hormones—chemically identical to those your body produces—derived from plant sources like wild yam.
Unlike pills or creams that can cause fluctuating levels, pellets release hormones gradually based on your body's needs, responding to activity and stress.
I'm Dr. Gannon Ward, and through my holistic wellness practice at Atmosphere Chiropractic & Wellness in Lehi, Utah, I've seen how subcutaneous hormone pellets can transform patients' lives when integrated into comprehensive wellness plans. My approach combines traditional chiropractic care with innovative therapies to help patients achieve optimal health and vitality.
Understanding Hormone Pellets: Composition and Function
Subcutaneous hormone pellets contain bioidentical hormones, which are chemically identical to those your body naturally produces. Made from plant sources like wild yam, the pellets typically contain estradiol or testosterone and are formulated into rice-sized cylinders.
Unlike synthetic hormones, your body readily recognizes bioidentical hormones. Pellet therapy provides steady hormone levels, avoiding the "roller coaster" effect common with daily pills or creams. Your hormone levels remain consistent day and night, eliminating the need for daily dosing and concerns about absorption.
For more detailed information about our comprehensive approach, check out our hormone therapy guide for women.
How do subcutaneous hormone pellets work?
Once placed in the subcutaneous tissue (the fatty layer under your skin), the pellets gradually release hormones directly into the bloodstream. This method bypasses the digestive system and liver, allowing for direct absorption into the surrounding blood vessels.
This gradual absorption provides a consistent dosage around the clock, preventing the spikes and crashes associated with oral medications. The duration of action is typically 3-5 months for women and 4-6 months for men, depending on metabolism and activity level.
Your body's needs regulate the release; more hormones are released during exercise or stress and less during rest.
What hormones are delivered via pellets?
Testosterone is a key hormone for both men and women. For men with low testosterone (andropause), pellets can restore energy, improve mood, boost libido, and help maintain muscle mass. Women also benefit from testosterone pellets with improved energy, mood, libido, and bone strength.
Estradiol pellets are used for women to relieve menopause symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and brain fog. They also support bone density and cardiovascular health.
Important note: Women with a uterus receiving estradiol therapy also need progesterone to protect the uterine lining. We often recommend progesterone as a cream or troche, as it dissolves faster than other hormones in pellet form. Even women without a uterus may benefit from progesterone for its positive effects on bone, brain, heart, and breast health.
The Benefits and Risks of Subcutaneous Hormone Pellets
Living with a hormone imbalance can be debilitating, with symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, hot flashes, mood swings, and low libido impacting your quality of life.
At Atmosphere Chiropractic & Wellness, we believe in giving you the complete picture—both the benefits and potential risks—so you can make an informed decision.
Potential Benefits of Pellet Therapy
The benefits of subcutaneous hormone pellets can be remarkable. Patients often experience:
- Relief from menopause symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings.
- Improved libido and sexual function for both men and women.
- Increased energy and mood, leading to more motivation and engagement in daily life.
- Improved mental clarity, helping to clear brain fog and sharpen concentration.
- Bone density protection, as both estradiol and testosterone help protect against osteoporosis.
- Improved body composition, including increased lean muscle and decreased body fat.
- Healthier skin and hair.
This comprehensive approach to wellness aligns perfectly with our philosophy at Atmosphere. For more insight into our holistic methods, visit our holistic health page.
Risks and Potential Side Effects
While generally well-tolerated, it's important to be aware of the potential risks and side effects of subcutaneous hormone pellets.
- Insertion site complications are the most common issue, including temporary bruising, swelling, or tenderness. Infection is rare but possible.
- Hormonal side effects are typically mild and dose-dependent. With testosterone, some women may notice increased facial hair or acne. Men may see a rise in red blood cell count, which we monitor.
- Estradiol therapy may cause temporary breast tenderness or mild water retention.
- An adjustment period is normal during the first cycle as your body adapts to new hormone levels. Subsequent insertions are usually smoother.
- Regular monitoring through blood tests is essential to track your levels and adjust dosing as needed for optimal, safe results.
While the bioidentical hormones (testosterone and estradiol) are FDA-approved, the compounded pellets themselves are not. This means variability can exist between pharmacies, which is why we only use reputable compounders. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists provides additional guidance on compounded hormone therapy that you might find helpful.
For most patients, the benefits far outweigh the risks when therapy is monitored by an experienced provider.
The Pellet Therapy Process: From Consultation to Post-Care
At Atmosphere Chiropractic & Wellness in Lehi, Utah, we guide you through a straightforward process to restore your hormonal balance. From your first consultation to your follow-up care, we ensure you feel informed and confident in your treatment plan.
How is the dosage and type of hormone determined?
Your treatment plan is customized to your unique needs. The process begins with an initial consultation to discuss your symptoms, health history, and wellness goals. Next, we perform comprehensive blood work to get a complete picture of your hormone levels. Your symptom evaluation is just as important, as lab values don't always tell the whole story. Finally, we create an individualized dosing plan based on your lab results, symptoms, medical history, and Body Mass Index (BMI) to maximize benefits and minimize side effects.
The Pellet Insertion Procedure
The insertion of subcutaneous hormone pellets is a quick and simple minor office procedure that takes only five to ten minutes. After sterilizing the insertion area (usually the upper buttocks or hip area), we apply local anesthetic to numb the skin. A tiny incision is made, and a specialized tool places the pellets into the fatty tissue. Most patients feel only slight pressure.
The incision is closed with a Steri-strip closure—no stitches are needed. You can return to most normal activities the same day, and we provide specific aftercare instructions. Minimal downtime is a key benefit, requiring only simple precautions for a few days.
How does subcutaneous hormone pellet therapy provide unique benefits?
Subcutaneous hormone pellets offer several unique advantages over other hormone therapies:
- Convenience: No daily pills, creams, or patches. One insertion provides months of therapy.
- Long-Lasting Effects: A single insertion lasts 3-6 months, requiring only 2-4 office visits per year.
- Consistent Absorption: Pellets provide steady, reliable hormone release, eliminating the guesswork of topical applications.
- No Daily Dosing: The constant supply avoids the hormonal "roller coaster" of daily medications.
- No Risk of Transference: Because the pellets are under the skin, there is no risk of transferring hormones to family members or pets.
Candidacy, Cost, and FDA Oversight
Deciding on subcutaneous hormone pellets involves understanding candidacy, cost, and the regulatory landscape.
Who is a good candidate for pellet therapy?
The best candidates for pellet therapy share certain health profiles and symptoms.
- Women experiencing menopause with symptoms like hot flashes, brain fog, low libido, or mood swings are often excellent candidates.
- Men facing andropause (low testosterone) with symptoms like low energy, decreased muscle mass, or lack of motivation are also strong candidates.
- Those with moderate to severe symptoms that impact daily life are good candidates, especially if other methods have failed or the convenience of pellets is preferred.
Contraindications exist, such as certain cancers or cardiovascular conditions. A thorough consultation and lab work are essential to determine if pellet therapy is appropriate for you. If you're curious whether hormone pellet therapy might be right for your situation, you can learn more about our comprehensive approach at our wellness clinic in Lehi.
What is the cost and is it covered by insurance?
Understanding the cost of subcutaneous hormone pellets is an important part of the decision-making process. The average annual cost is typically $1,500 to $2,000. For women, insertions cost between $365 to $675. For men, who require larger doses, the cost is around $475 to $875 per insertion.
Regarding insurance coverage, pellet therapy is usually an out-of-pocket expense. Because compounded pellets are not FDA-approved as finished drug products (though their ingredients are), most insurance plans and Medicare do not cover them. It is always worth checking with your provider, as some plans may offer partial coverage. Many patients find the investment in their quality of life worthwhile.
What is the FDA's stance on compounded hormone pellets?
The regulatory landscape for hormone pellets can be confusing. The ingredients in hormone pellets—testosterone and estradiol—are FDA-approved for medical use. However, the pellets themselves are created by compounding pharmacies to provide customized dosages.
The key distinction is that the compounded pellets themselves lack FDA approval as finished drug products. The National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) has noted the limited large-scale clinical trial data on compounded therapies compared to FDA-approved drugs.
We are transparent about this status and mitigate risks by using only reputable compounding pharmacies and watching our patients to ensure safety and effectiveness. You can find more detailed information about the FDA's perspective on compounded hormone therapy studies here: FDA information on compounded hormone therapy studies.
Frequently Asked Questions about Hormone Pellets
Here are answers to the most common questions about subcutaneous hormone pellets.
How long does it take to feel the effects of hormone pellets?
Initial relief can be quick. Many women feel better within 48 to 72 hours, while men typically notice changes within 2 to 4 weeks. However, full optimization takes time. Reaching the full range of benefits can take up to six months as your body adjusts to consistent hormone levels.
Individual results vary based on your health, lifestyle, and starting hormone levels. Many patients report the most significant improvements after their second insertion, once their dosage has been fine-tuned.
Do the pellets need to be removed?
No, the pellets do not need to be removed. They are bio-absorbable, meaning they are made of pure bioidentical hormone and dissolve completely on their own over several months. No removal procedure is necessary.
Is there scientific evidence supporting pellet therapy?
Yes, the science behind hormone pellet therapy is well-established. The therapy has been used for decades, dating back to the 1930s. European and Australian data provide substantial scientific backing, as pellet therapy has been used consistently in those regions for decades.
Ongoing research continues to show that pellets effectively maintain bone density, relieve menopausal symptoms, and provide consistent hormone levels. While the FDA notes limited large-scale trial data on compounded pellets, the hormone ingredients are FDA-approved. We ensure safety by using reputable pharmacies and watching every patient.
Take Control of Your Hormonal Health
Your hormones don't have to control your life. At Atmosphere Chiropractic & Wellness, we help patients transform from feeling exhausted to living vibrant lives. Restoring hormonal balance is about reclaiming your vitality.
Subcutaneous hormone pellets can help restore the energy, mental clarity, and drive you once had by providing steady, consistent hormone support. Hormone imbalance is a treatable condition. When your hormones are balanced, you can experience more restorative sleep, stable energy levels, and improved moods.
Our approach at Atmosphere Chiropractic & Wellness is comprehensive. We combine subcutaneous hormone pellet therapy with other innovative treatments like cryotherapy, red light therapy, and chiropractic care to address your overall wellness.
The simplicity of pellet therapy allows you to focus on living your life, not managing daily medications. Once inserted, the pellets work for months, helping you feel "normal" again.
If you're in the Lehi, Utah area and ready to stop accepting fatigue and mood swings as your new normal, our team is here to help create a personalized plan for you. Taking the first step is the most important one. Learn more about our Hormone Replacement Therapy services and find if subcutaneous hormone pellets are the missing piece in your wellness journey.
Your best years don't have to be behind you. Let's work together to make sure they're still ahead.
Understanding Subcutaneous Hormone Pellets: A Revolutionary Approach to Hormone Balance
Subcutaneous hormone pellets are tiny, rice-sized implants placed under the skin that deliver bioidentical hormones directly into your bloodstream over several months. These pellets offer a convenient alternative to daily hormone creams, patches, or pills by providing steady, consistent hormone levels.
Quick Facts about Subcutaneous Hormone Pellets:
- Size: About the size of a grain of rice
- Duration: Last 3-6 months (varies by gender and activity level)
- Hormones: Typically contain testosterone, estradiol, or both
- Insertion: Simple office procedure with local anesthetic
- Benefits: Steady hormone levels, no daily dosing, reduced side effects
- Candidates: Men and women experiencing hormone imbalance symptoms
As we age, hormone production declines. Women experience a dramatic drop during menopause, and men face a gradual decline (andropause) starting in their 30s. This can cause fatigue, mood swings, reduced libido, hot flashes, and other symptoms that impact quality of life.
Hormone pellet therapy has been used for decades. The pellets contain bioidentical hormones—chemically identical to those your body produces—derived from plant sources like wild yam.
Unlike pills or creams that can cause fluctuating levels, pellets release hormones gradually based on your body's needs, responding to activity and stress.
I'm Dr. Gannon Ward, and through my holistic wellness practice at Atmosphere Chiropractic & Wellness in Lehi, Utah, I've seen how subcutaneous hormone pellets can transform patients' lives when integrated into comprehensive wellness plans. My approach combines traditional chiropractic care with innovative therapies to help patients achieve optimal health and vitality.
Understanding Hormone Pellets: Composition and Function
Subcutaneous hormone pellets contain bioidentical hormones, which are chemically identical to those your body naturally produces. Made from plant sources like wild yam, the pellets typically contain estradiol or testosterone and are formulated into rice-sized cylinders.
Unlike synthetic hormones, your body readily recognizes bioidentical hormones. Pellet therapy provides steady hormone levels, avoiding the "roller coaster" effect common with daily pills or creams. Your hormone levels remain consistent day and night, eliminating the need for daily dosing and concerns about absorption.
For more detailed information about our comprehensive approach, check out our hormone therapy guide for women.
How do subcutaneous hormone pellets work?
Once placed in the subcutaneous tissue (the fatty layer under your skin), the pellets gradually release hormones directly into the bloodstream. This method bypasses the digestive system and liver, allowing for direct absorption into the surrounding blood vessels.
This gradual absorption provides a consistent dosage around the clock, preventing the spikes and crashes associated with oral medications. The duration of action is typically 3-5 months for women and 4-6 months for men, depending on metabolism and activity level.
Your body's needs regulate the release; more hormones are released during exercise or stress and less during rest.
What hormones are delivered via pellets?
Testosterone is a key hormone for both men and women. For men with low testosterone (andropause), pellets can restore energy, improve mood, boost libido, and help maintain muscle mass. Women also benefit from testosterone pellets with improved energy, mood, libido, and bone strength.
Estradiol pellets are used for women to relieve menopause symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and brain fog. They also support bone density and cardiovascular health.
Important note: Women with a uterus receiving estradiol therapy also need progesterone to protect the uterine lining. We often recommend progesterone as a cream or troche, as it dissolves faster than other hormones in pellet form. Even women without a uterus may benefit from progesterone for its positive effects on bone, brain, heart, and breast health.
The Benefits and Risks of Subcutaneous Hormone Pellets
Living with a hormone imbalance can be debilitating, with symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, hot flashes, mood swings, and low libido impacting your quality of life.
At Atmosphere Chiropractic & Wellness, we believe in giving you the complete picture—both the benefits and potential risks—so you can make an informed decision.
Potential Benefits of Pellet Therapy
The benefits of subcutaneous hormone pellets can be remarkable. Patients often experience:
- Relief from menopause symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings.
- Improved libido and sexual function for both men and women.
- Increased energy and mood, leading to more motivation and engagement in daily life.
- Improved mental clarity, helping to clear brain fog and sharpen concentration.
- Bone density protection, as both estradiol and testosterone help protect against osteoporosis.
- Improved body composition, including increased lean muscle and decreased body fat.
- Healthier skin and hair.
This comprehensive approach to wellness aligns perfectly with our philosophy at Atmosphere. For more insight into our holistic methods, visit our holistic health page.
Risks and Potential Side Effects
While generally well-tolerated, it's important to be aware of the potential risks and side effects of subcutaneous hormone pellets.
- Insertion site complications are the most common issue, including temporary bruising, swelling, or tenderness. Infection is rare but possible.
- Hormonal side effects are typically mild and dose-dependent. With testosterone, some women may notice increased facial hair or acne. Men may see a rise in red blood cell count, which we monitor.
- Estradiol therapy may cause temporary breast tenderness or mild water retention.
- An adjustment period is normal during the first cycle as your body adapts to new hormone levels. Subsequent insertions are usually smoother.
- Regular monitoring through blood tests is essential to track your levels and adjust dosing as needed for optimal, safe results.
While the bioidentical hormones (testosterone and estradiol) are FDA-approved, the compounded pellets themselves are not. This means variability can exist between pharmacies, which is why we only use reputable compounders. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists provides additional guidance on compounded hormone therapy that you might find helpful.
For most patients, the benefits far outweigh the risks when therapy is monitored by an experienced provider.
The Pellet Therapy Process: From Consultation to Post-Care
At Atmosphere Chiropractic & Wellness in Lehi, Utah, we guide you through a straightforward process to restore your hormonal balance. From your first consultation to your follow-up care, we ensure you feel informed and confident in your treatment plan.
How is the dosage and type of hormone determined?
Your treatment plan is customized to your unique needs. The process begins with an initial consultation to discuss your symptoms, health history, and wellness goals. Next, we perform comprehensive blood work to get a complete picture of your hormone levels. Your symptom evaluation is just as important, as lab values don't always tell the whole story. Finally, we create an individualized dosing plan based on your lab results, symptoms, medical history, and Body Mass Index (BMI) to maximize benefits and minimize side effects.
The Pellet Insertion Procedure
The insertion of subcutaneous hormone pellets is a quick and simple minor office procedure that takes only five to ten minutes. After sterilizing the insertion area (usually the upper buttocks or hip area), we apply local anesthetic to numb the skin. A tiny incision is made, and a specialized tool places the pellets into the fatty tissue. Most patients feel only slight pressure.
The incision is closed with a Steri-strip closure—no stitches are needed. You can return to most normal activities the same day, and we provide specific aftercare instructions. Minimal downtime is a key benefit, requiring only simple precautions for a few days.
How does subcutaneous hormone pellet therapy provide unique benefits?
Subcutaneous hormone pellets offer several unique advantages over other hormone therapies:
- Convenience: No daily pills, creams, or patches. One insertion provides months of therapy.
- Long-Lasting Effects: A single insertion lasts 3-6 months, requiring only 2-4 office visits per year.
- Consistent Absorption: Pellets provide steady, reliable hormone release, eliminating the guesswork of topical applications.
- No Daily Dosing: The constant supply avoids the hormonal "roller coaster" of daily medications.
- No Risk of Transference: Because the pellets are under the skin, there is no risk of transferring hormones to family members or pets.
Candidacy, Cost, and FDA Oversight
Deciding on subcutaneous hormone pellets involves understanding candidacy, cost, and the regulatory landscape.
Who is a good candidate for pellet therapy?
The best candidates for pellet therapy share certain health profiles and symptoms.
- Women experiencing menopause with symptoms like hot flashes, brain fog, low libido, or mood swings are often excellent candidates.
- Men facing andropause (low testosterone) with symptoms like low energy, decreased muscle mass, or lack of motivation are also strong candidates.
- Those with moderate to severe symptoms that impact daily life are good candidates, especially if other methods have failed or the convenience of pellets is preferred.
Contraindications exist, such as certain cancers or cardiovascular conditions. A thorough consultation and lab work are essential to determine if pellet therapy is appropriate for you. If you're curious whether hormone pellet therapy might be right for your situation, you can learn more about our comprehensive approach at our wellness clinic in Lehi.
What is the cost and is it covered by insurance?
Understanding the cost of subcutaneous hormone pellets is an important part of the decision-making process. The average annual cost is typically $1,500 to $2,000. For women, insertions cost between $365 to $675. For men, who require larger doses, the cost is around $475 to $875 per insertion.
Regarding insurance coverage, pellet therapy is usually an out-of-pocket expense. Because compounded pellets are not FDA-approved as finished drug products (though their ingredients are), most insurance plans and Medicare do not cover them. It is always worth checking with your provider, as some plans may offer partial coverage. Many patients find the investment in their quality of life worthwhile.
What is the FDA's stance on compounded hormone pellets?
The regulatory landscape for hormone pellets can be confusing. The ingredients in hormone pellets—testosterone and estradiol—are FDA-approved for medical use. However, the pellets themselves are created by compounding pharmacies to provide customized dosages.
The key distinction is that the compounded pellets themselves lack FDA approval as finished drug products. The National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) has noted the limited large-scale clinical trial data on compounded therapies compared to FDA-approved drugs.
We are transparent about this status and mitigate risks by using only reputable compounding pharmacies and watching our patients to ensure safety and effectiveness. You can find more detailed information about the FDA's perspective on compounded hormone therapy studies here: FDA information on compounded hormone therapy studies.
Frequently Asked Questions about Hormone Pellets
Here are answers to the most common questions about subcutaneous hormone pellets.
How long does it take to feel the effects of hormone pellets?
Initial relief can be quick. Many women feel better within 48 to 72 hours, while men typically notice changes within 2 to 4 weeks. However, full optimization takes time. Reaching the full range of benefits can take up to six months as your body adjusts to consistent hormone levels.
Individual results vary based on your health, lifestyle, and starting hormone levels. Many patients report the most significant improvements after their second insertion, once their dosage has been fine-tuned.
Do the pellets need to be removed?
No, the pellets do not need to be removed. They are bio-absorbable, meaning they are made of pure bioidentical hormone and dissolve completely on their own over several months. No removal procedure is necessary.
Is there scientific evidence supporting pellet therapy?
Yes, the science behind hormone pellet therapy is well-established. The therapy has been used for decades, dating back to the 1930s. European and Australian data provide substantial scientific backing, as pellet therapy has been used consistently in those regions for decades.
Ongoing research continues to show that pellets effectively maintain bone density, relieve menopausal symptoms, and provide consistent hormone levels. While the FDA notes limited large-scale trial data on compounded pellets, the hormone ingredients are FDA-approved. We ensure safety by using reputable pharmacies and watching every patient.
Take Control of Your Hormonal Health
Your hormones don't have to control your life. At Atmosphere Chiropractic & Wellness, we help patients transform from feeling exhausted to living vibrant lives. Restoring hormonal balance is about reclaiming your vitality.
Subcutaneous hormone pellets can help restore the energy, mental clarity, and drive you once had by providing steady, consistent hormone support. Hormone imbalance is a treatable condition. When your hormones are balanced, you can experience more restorative sleep, stable energy levels, and improved moods.
Our approach at Atmosphere Chiropractic & Wellness is comprehensive. We combine subcutaneous hormone pellet therapy with other innovative treatments like cryotherapy, red light therapy, and chiropractic care to address your overall wellness.
The simplicity of pellet therapy allows you to focus on living your life, not managing daily medications. Once inserted, the pellets work for months, helping you feel "normal" again.
If you're in the Lehi, Utah area and ready to stop accepting fatigue and mood swings as your new normal, our team is here to help create a personalized plan for you. Taking the first step is the most important one. Learn more about our Hormone Replacement Therapy services and find if subcutaneous hormone pellets are the missing piece in your wellness journey.
Your best years don't have to be behind you. Let's work together to make sure they're still ahead.
