By: Monica Zatarski, PharmD RPh The use of antacids, such as Prilosec, Nexium and Tums is widespread. Half of American adults have used antacids, and they are the third most common over-the-counter medication. Most people take these drugs to relieve the symptoms of heartburn, reflux, GERD and indigestion. Last June, a very large study showed […]
MD News
Converting to BHRT from Conventional Therapies
By Monica Zatarski, PharmD, RPh So, you are on conventional hormone therapy and you or your doctor thinks it is time to explore customized/compounded, hormone restoration tailored to your needs. Please note that this transition may not be easy, but it will be worth it in the long run with safer, more effective hormone management. […]
Understanding Salivary Four-Point Cortisol Test Results
By Monica Zatarski, PharmD, RPh Cortisol is a hormone secreted by the adrenal glands during the normal course of the day, but also in response to stress. Just like you were meant to rise in the morning and sleep at night, cortisol too follows a daily rhythm and closely follows your energy levels [when optimal]. […]
Clinical Considerations for the Administration of Hormones Topically
By Monica Zatarski, PharmD, RPh Topical application of bio-identical hormone therapy continues to gain more popularity with patients and practitioners as a convenient, practical, and effective means of administration. One reason for this increase in popularity, is that there are more risks evident with the oral administration of estrogen. In addition, studies continue to show […]
What to Do When Stress Takes Over
By: Monica Zatarski, PharmD, RPh According to the Annual Stress Survey by the American Psychological Association, 75 percent of women experience moderate to severe stress, 49 percent report sleep problems, and more than 40 percent report physical symptoms as a direct result of stress. The problem is we rarely turn off! And neither does our […]
A Discussion on Thyroid Dysfunction
By: Krista Borowski, RPh Thyroid dysfunction, specifically hypothyroidism, is commonly under-diagnosed, but can account for a wide variety of symptoms. The common symptoms of hypothyroidism are (but not limited to) fatigue, weight gain, brittle hair and nails, hair loss, cold sensitivity, constipation, depression, muscle and joint pain, and menstrual irregularities. There are several situations that […]
Hormonal Contraceptives and Depression: The Latest News
By Erin Orth Approximately 80% of sexually active young women in the United States use hormonal contraceptives, with additional use seen in pubescent and peri-/post-menopausal women for purposes other than prevention of pregnancy1. This gives some idea to the substantial scope of this issue, and why any link between hormone-containing contraception and a major health […]
Hormone Testing
By: Krista Borowski, RPh Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) has many advantages, one of which is the ability to have a product custom made for you. A provider can prescribe specific doses to optimize therapy to balance your hormones and alleviate any symptoms you may have. There are several dosage forms available with the most […]
The Importance of Vitamin D
By Krista Borowski, RPh Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that has several important functions, including regulating the absorption of calcium and phosphorous for proper development of strong bones and teeth. If your body doesn’t get enough vitamin D, you are at risk of developing bone abnormalities such as soft bones (osteomalacia)or fragile bones (osteoporosis). […]
Sleep Deprivation and Its Impact
By Erin Orth, PharmD The effects of sleep deprivation are prevalent, powerful, and widespread throughout the human body, mind, and society. The cardiovascular consequences of lack of sleep are particularly concerning: the “MONICA” study from 2015 determined that men with a sleeping disorder had a 2- to 2.6-fold increased risk of heart attack and a […]