Myths and truths about bioidentical hormones, from Harvard Women’s Health Watch

“Bioidentical” hormones have often been promoted in the popular press as safer and more effective than FDA-approved hormones. However, there’s no good evidence to support this assertion. This is just one of several claims about bioidentical hormones therapy that Harvard Women’s Health Watch examines in its September 2011 issue.

The term bioidentical doesn’t have an exact medical definition. Health experts generally define bioidentical hormones as compounds that have the same chemical and molecular structure as those produced in the body. Some bioidentical hormones, like natural progesterone (Prometrium) and estradiol products such as Estrace, Vivelle, and Estring are FDA-approved and available by prescription. “Bioidentical” is more broadly defined by advocates of “bioidentical hormone replacement therapy” (BHRT), which includes hormone testing via saliva tests and the use of individually compounded hormones to correct “deficiencies.” It’s the claims made for BHRT that Harvard Women’s Health Watch calls into question. These include:

To continue reading this article, you must log in.

Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.

  • Research health conditions
  • Check your symptoms
  • Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
  • Find the best treatments and procedures for you
  • Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
Learn more about the many benefits and features of joining Harvard Health Online »

I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.

Sign Me Up

Already a member? Login ».

Disclaimer:

As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.

No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.

Free Healthbeat Signup

Get the latest in health news delivered to your inbox!

Sign Up
Harvard Health Publishing Logo

Thanks for visiting. Don't miss your FREE gift.

The Best Diets for Cognitive Fitness, is yours absolutely FREE when you sign up to receive Health Alerts from Harvard Medical School

Sign up to get tips for living a healthy lifestyle, with ways to fight inflammation and improve cognitive health, plus the latest advances in preventative medicine, diet and exercise, pain relief, blood pressure and cholesterol management, and more.

Harvard Health Publishing Logo

Health Alerts from Harvard Medical School

Get helpful tips and guidance for everything from fighting inflammation to finding the best diets for weight loss...from exercises to build a stronger core to advice on treating cataracts. PLUS, the latest news on medical advances and breakthroughs from Harvard Medical School experts.

BONUS! Sign up now and
get a FREE copy of the
Best Diets for Cognitive Fitness

Harvard Health Publishing Logo

Stay on top of latest health news from Harvard Medical School.

Plus, get a FREE copy of the Best Diets for Cognitive Fitness.