What is Bioidentical Testosterone Replacement Pellet Therapy?
Bioidentical Testosterone Pellet Therapy is a form of hormone therapy that seeks to return the hormone balance to optimized levels in men through a simple subcutaneous insertion of tiny pellets performed in the office.
How Do I know if I’m a Candidate for Pellets?
Symptoms may vary widely, including fatigue, lack of energy, depression, anxiety, night sweats, joint pain, sleeplessness, or loss of libido. Dr. Steinberg begins with a medical history, symptom review, exam, and a lab order to have blood work done which will identify your hormone levels. Dr. Steinberg reviews the results with patients to recommend a treatment plan, if indicated.
Do I Have Blood Work Done Before Each Treatment?
Yes, a full lab panel is suggested at regular intervals to monitor testosterone levels during treatment and to appropriately set dosing.
What Are the Pellets Made From?
Bioidentical testosterone pellets are made from organic plant materials. The pellets are bioidentical, meaning they are almost the exact replication of what the body makes, in contrast to synthetic hormones.
How Long Will the Effect of the Treatment Last?
Typically, treatments last 5-6 months. Everyone is somewhat different, so it depends on how you feel, your lab tests and what Dr. Steinberg determines is right for you.
Is Bioidentical Testosterone Replacement Pellet Therapy FDA Approved?
The ingredients in the pellets are all FDA approved. The distribution of the pellets is FDA regulated. However, there is no FDA approval on compounded drugs, including bioidentical testosterone pellets, because they are based on individualized dosing. Every day, physicians prescribe off-label non-FDA approved products and therapies that are deemed safe and effective for patients.
How are Pellets Administered?
Pellets are implanted under the skin just above the belt line in the man’s “love handle” area during a 20-minute office visit. After applying a local anesthetic to the area, a small incision is made, and the pellets are inserted. No stitch is required.
What if I Take Blood Thinners or Aspirin?
Dr. Steinberg will let you know if, and when, you need to discontinue use of any medication prior to the treatment. He will also let you know when to resume these medications post-treatment.
Are There Any Side Effects?
There are no serious side effects. Some possible nuisance side effects include hair growth or acne. Both are very treatable. Of course, Dr. Steinberg monitors side effects and makes any adjustments to the therapy, if indicated.
What if I’m Already on TRT, Such as Creams, Patches, Injections or Pills?
This is an easy transition. Dr. Steinberg will be able to determine your needs even though you may be currently taking these other forms of TRT.
How Much Does Bio-Identical Testosterone Pellet Therapy Treatment Cost?
Insurance typically does not cover the cost of BioIdentical Testosterone Pellet Therapy. We offer a Testosterone Replacement Subscription Membership Program which includes pellets, pellet insertions, blood work, and office visits. The cost of a New Patient Office Consultation prior to becoming a member of the Program is typically covered by insurance.
What if I’ve Had Prostate Cancer?
Prostate Cancer survivors and/or those who have a history of Prostate Cancer in their family may still be a candidate; however, each case is to be determined by Dr. Steinberg.
Dr. Steinberg is one of a few urologists trained in Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Pellet Therapy in the Boston area. If you are suffering from the symptoms of Low T and would like to learn more about Bioidentical Testosterone Pellet Replacement Therapy treatment, schedule an evaluation with Men’s Health specialist Dr. Jeffrey Steinberg in his Milford, MA office at (508) 473-6333.
