Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.
|
|
Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D. |
2003: The HRT Controversy Series
Power Surge™ Live!
January 30 2005
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 13th visit to Power Surge) Dearest: My guest tonight is Pete, Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D. Pete has been a Registered Pharmacist since 1973. He has worked exclusively in the women's healthcare field for years devoted exclusively to compounding prescription hormone products (progesterone, estradiol, estriol, estrone, tri-estrogen, DHEA, testosterone, pregnenolone). Pete specializes in counseling patients and physicians on the use of hormones. Pete advises patients and physicians, nationwide, and is an acknowledged expert on the use of *natural* hormones for HRT (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 also is co-owner of Bellevue Pharmacy. Solutions. Pete, it's a pleasure to welcome you to Power Surge :) Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: Thank you. It is great to be here again. I am ready to answer any questions. Dearest: Pete, isn't it true that because of the predominance of Premarin and Provera over the past 50+ years, that women haven't been made aware of natural, plant-derived, bio-identical hormones even though they've been in use in Europe since the 1940's and in the United States since the mid '70's? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: I would say yes, it has been quite political in the U.S.A. up until now. Dearest: How so, Pete? If a drug like Estrace, which contains natural estradiol, is FDA approved, why can't all plant-derived, naturally compounded hormones be FDA approved? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: Because no drug company wants to spend 240 million dollars plus on a research study to prove them effective, and then turn around and have it made generically shortly thereafter, unless it is trade name and patented for a long time, they can't earn their money back very easily. Dearest: Terrible that politics should govern women's health in such a negative way. Thanks, Pete. HSpec: Is it true that a woman in her late seventies, way past menopause, can still produce low levels of estrogen and progesterone? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: Probably not very much estrogen at all, and mostly no progesterone, the ovaries are probably totally worn out by then. AnneCare: Pete, If I am a military dependent whose physician provider doesn't prescribe natural hormones, how could I access them? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: Let me know your area code and zip code and the largest city near you, and I can look up a physician close to you, then go to that doctor and pay out of pocket. GGc0ok: I have atrophic vaginitis, and I was told that I would be helped with estrogen cream. There was a miscommunication and she prescription for Premarin only it is conjugated, she said that for two weeks it wouldn't hurt, and then we will change. Is it safe to use for the 2 weeks, then switch over to the plant derived estrogen cream? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: Yes, it will be safe for two weeks, and then switch over. YoungOldMe: I use Bi-Est cream & progesterone cream. FSH level remains premenopausal, but I feel menopausal (age 52). Over the years, will I have to use more and more cream/hormones to continue feeling OK? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: I don't know your current doses, and I also recommend to treat the patient, not the test, so maybe you need to be fine tuned on your dosing. You may have to go up in strength for awhile, and then taper back down. YoungOldMe: Interesting idea. Sounds natural. Thanks. VickieHoag: I am on Bi-Est 2.5 mg sublingual and I have noticed a mild rash on my face. Have Progesterone 100 mg sublinguals which I have not taken yet.not time yet. Is it ok to keep using the Bi-Est? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: Yes, it probably is ok, but if you received those from me, then call me tomorrow, and I will ask a few questions, and then be able to advise you better. Dearest: Is there a specific way women should wean off Premarin, PremPro and the other synthetic hormones -- and can they start the naturals immediately? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: They could go straight to the naturals in a switch over, or if they wanted totally off, then wean off over about 5 weeks of time. Dearest: Pete, can you be more specific as to HOW they can wean off over 5 weeks? Thanks. Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: One every other day for 1 week, then 1 every 3 days for a week, then 1 twice a week for a week, then one a week for 1 week, and off. Dearest: What about weaning off the patch? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: The patch would be to wear and extra day before changing for a week, then one patch a week for a week for 2 weeks and then off. Dearest: Thanks, Pete! Guest108: I have been on Estraderm patch since I was 27, full hysterectomy, now 39, how long do I need to be on HRT's or alt methods. Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: Probably for 10 to 15 more years or maybe even longer, to protect your bones, and eventually you want to try to lower the doses to a minimal amount. Dearest: Pete, tell people the number where they can get in touch with you if they're interested in information about natural hormones. Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: 1-800-728-0288 ask for Pete or Brock, R.Ph. SturdyWoman: All my hormone levels are low, progesterone being the worst. I have tried oral, progesterone cream, suppositories and sublingual. I have bad side effects from all. Any suggestions? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: I need more info and possible reasons why they didn't work, and what side effects did occur, then I may have a better suggestion for you, also we do have a long acting gel to try. Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: Sturdy: some women try the progesterone for 14 days every 3.5 months when having a problem. MenopauseMama: studies say hormonal levels differ by ethnicity. what do you recommend for African American women, fifties, who have lost uterus around age of 35. your opinion on ethnicity and hormones. Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: It depends on symptoms and severity of the symptoms, but generally at least Bi-Est 2.5mg once to twice a day would be close to helping this person. I don't think there is much difference in needs do to ethnicity. Dearest: Pete, isn't it best to start a woman off with the lowest dose possible of hormones, even the natural ones, and then work up to a higher dose if certain symptoms persist? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: That is absolutely correct in my mind. MenopauseMama: Studies have not been done have they? How do I get the natural hormones? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: Official studies have not been done, The natural hormones are purchased via a prescription from a licensed physician. Dearest: MenopauseMama, do you mean studies haven't been done regarding how different ethnic groups react to menopause? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: I know of know studies relating to ethnicity. BSpence: My FSH level is at 44 and I am 39. I am currently taking Femhrt but this is not helping my sex drive. Is there a type of testosterone that I can take safely. Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: The natural testosterone that we compound is safe and can be used with the Femhrt, and would probably help the libido. You may want to also adjust your estrogen level, or go to the Natural Bioidentical Hormones instead of Femhrt. Dearest: Pete, regarding your last answer. What do you recommend for women with vaginal dryness and/or sexual libido issues who don't prefer to use oral natural hormones? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: I would use the testosterone 2% thick gel and apply a small amount to the clitoris and surrounding area about 1/2 hour before bedtime daily. Another great item to enhance libido and to have more intense orgasms is our Alura, and it is OTC. Dearest: Is Alura the same as Viacream? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: Same exact thing, the new name is Alura. Gene: Rumor has it that efforts are already underway in Congress to enact laws making all hormones prescription-only, including progesterone. Do you think this is really going to happen? and why? Natural progesterone has been used for years by a lot of women with no dangerous side effects. Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: I do not know of this act in congress, but it would not surprise me, since some women use it wrong, and doctors are complaining about the women getting themselves into trouble. Dearest: Pete, are you referring to over the counter natural progesterone creams? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: I assume that is what she meant, and yes that is what I am referring to, not the RX (prescription) type, since it is already controlled and on RX. LaffeLady: How does taking effexor affect the natural hormones - Bi-Est, progesterone, and testosterone? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: I will make your libido drop some, but will not interfere with much else, if the doses are correct for a patient. Dearest: Pete, why are women being prescribed drugs like Paxil, Neurontin and various SSRI's for the MENOPAUSE SYMPTOMS? These are strong drugs and aren't really intended to treat menopause symptoms. Effexor, Wellbutrin, et al. Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: I think because the drug reps go in and tell the doctor that they will do something for the anxious women, and it is easy to prescribe, and then they don't have to learn about the natural bio-identical hormones. Dearest: And because they receive all sorts of perks if they hand out those drugs. Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: Menopause symptoms can be similar to those of depressed and socially sick people or women. MaryO: Hi, Pete! What other remedies do you recommend instead of, or in combination with, natural hormones? I've seen the Women's Active Multi vitamin. I've read the ingredients and it sounds wonderful. Is that good to take for menopause? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: It is a great menopausal vitamin, and in fact we now have Active Men's multi for all of your husbands, or male friends. It is a great general all purpose vitamin. MaryO: Oh, great - thanks! Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: And very inexpensive if I might add. MaryO: Even better! Dearest: I use the Active Women's Multi every day. What do you think makes it better than the typical multi vitamins available? (I know, but I'm wondering what you think) :) Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: It is a great combination of low dose herbs, for menopause, and a proper dose of the vitamins and minerals which keep us healthy and also keep the bones strong. TT: Is the estrogen gel you compound -- is it PLO gel or timed-release kind? How long is the effect of one dose supposed to last? (my gel says E3/E2/3mg/1.5mg/2ml DGEL) Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: The gel we make (Duragel) is long acting, and 2 ml spread out over the skin should last for about 20 to 24 hours. We also make the PLO gels (Pluronic Lecithin Organogel), and they are quick acting. You have the long acting Duragel. TT: How long is it suppose to take to start working? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: The gel should start to work in 5 to 7 days time. ME: What effects do steroids have on the menopausal women using natural remedies? I was on them for severe poison ivy, 3 different brands, and was a raving "loon" for weeks after. Also, I need more info about ALURA OTC, please. Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: Yes the steroids can cause that problem, but once you are off of them for 2 to 3 weeks, then things should get back to normal, and in the meantime they make hormones less effective, and seem not there. Dearest: ME, if you want more information on Alura, you can call Pete. Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: Alura can be researched on my website at www.bpharmacysolutions.com and go to the alternative therapy area, where we have a link to the manufacturer's info. 1-800-728-0288 ask for Pete or Brock. GGc0ok: I've used my progesterone cream everyday without a break. I'm post-meno almost 5 years now, but have only been using the cream for about a year and a half, is that ok? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: That is perfectly fine, as long as you do not get breast tenderness, nipple tenderness, or weight gain or bloating, then you should take a break. GGc0ok: Oh dear, I have all of the above, so then I should take the break? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: Yes, I would take a break for say 2 or 3 weeks. AnneCare: I would be glad to provide you with information for a referral to a physician. Don't know how this works, so when is the best time or may I call the 800 number? Thanks. Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: You can email the info to me at consultph@bpharmacysolutions.com or call 1-800-728-0288 and leave the info I did ask for earlier with the technician that answers the phone, be sure to leave your name and area code with phone number too. Angel51: I have been taking HIH from the Women's International Pharmacy for more than a year. Is this animal, mineral, vegetable? My legs ache terribly and sometimes my feet feel numb, could this be from the HRT? The amount is E1E2 0.25/E3 2/PRO 100mg. Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: It sounds like you are out of balance, and the dose does not look correct, I would love to work with you from my Pharmacy in the near future, I do believe they use natural also, and from the plant sources. VickieHoag: What helps more with anxiety and headaches? Natural estrogens or natural progesterone? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: It depends on what part of the cycle, but if post-menopausal, then I would say the estrogen is going to be a big part of the answer. VickieHoag: No pre menopausal Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: Balance is the key!! Jeanc40: I'm still on vivelle dot .1 but it still only lasts me 2 1/2 days. Am I the only one? Also does your progesterone come in that long acting gel? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: The progesterone does come in the long acting Duragel, yes. And yes, I have many women that change the Vivelle at 2.5 days instead of 3.5 days. YoungOldMe: I am using Bi-Est and progesterone creams daily. Do you consider it important to go off the creams every month or every 3 months for a few days, or not? I get headaches and very very little bleeding when I go off every 3 months for 3 days. More days off, worse headaches. Thanks Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: It is not necessary to go off at all, unless you get a build up and a high reserve, then go off for the 3 days. SuperGrammieJean: I am new to this subject. If I am taking Revival, do I also need to be taking hormones? It sounds complicated. And where can I get the Active Women's multvitamin? Dearest: SuperGrammie, if you go to www.power-surge.com/recommend.htm you can read all about the Active Multi Women's Multi. If you Email me, I can send you more information as well. Pete can answer your question about the hormones :) Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: You only need the hormones if you have menopause symptoms, or if you have osteopenia or osteoporosis. The Active Multi Women's Multi can be ordered online through my website, or phone in to order at 1-800-728-0288. Dearest: There are numerous recommended vitamins on the above link that are excellent for women in menopause. LadyRose47: I have been on Estrace (1 mg) and Prometrium (100mg) for 1 year - I still have periods but was put on them to help with hot flashes and night sweats. Is the Bi-Est and progesterone all in one tablet better than these two? I am finding the prometrium very expensive since insurance started using three-tier pricing. I still am having hot flashes and night sweats, by the way. I am also on anti-anxiety medications (Effexor 150 mg) and seem to be having problem having orgasms as well as daily nausea approximately 4 hours after taking Effexor and headaches almost daily. Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: I do believe the Bi-Est would be better for you, and yes I can compound it all into one capsule, if you call me tomorrow or next week, I can tell you how to have your doctor order it, and how you can get three months worth for one co-pay. Dearest: Pete, can you tell everyone what Bi-Est is composed of and why you recommend it? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: Bi-Est is 80% estriol and 20% estradiol. We recommend it because it gives the best balance of 2 of the most natural estrogens, similar to that of when you were younger, like in your twenties. Much less side effects, and much less risky for your health, also. Tazler123: I was on 2.5 mg of Bi-Est for a couple of months. I experienced a return of menstrual flow and breast tenderness. Tapered of to a 1/4 of this dose. Symptoms persisted. Changed to estriol/estradiol 1.6/.6. Breast tenderness decreased but muscle tension/ spasms and migraines began even at 1/4 dose. I gave up and stopped taking anything. I do take 10% progesterone cream on skin for two weeks on and off. Hot flashes returned and insomnia. Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: This will take a long discussion with you to resolve and get a complete history, I would advise you to call me, when we both have more time, I know I can help you. Sherry: I am taking the hormone pill "ESTRATEST" for years. I am 47 and had a total hysterectomy in 1998! Do I still need to take this hormone daily or go to natural ones? I have NO SEX DRIVE. I take effexor, Prozac,zanaflex for fibromyalgia, panic and depression. Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: I would say you are out of balance, see your doctor about our natural bio identical hormones, and once you are balanced better, you may be able to go off the Effexor, Prozac and so on, and then have a better libido too. The anti anxiety meds can definitely cause a decrease in libido. We do make a natural that will work much better, please call me. Dearest: If anyone has further questions about naturally compounded hormones, you can ask Pete by typing into your browser, http://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 at consultph@bpharmacysolutions.com. Andy: How do you decide if a woman who has had a TAH/BSO needs progesterone or not? Thanks. Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: We can test, or go by symptoms, or go by side effects after she has started on the estrogens and testosterone. Sometimes progesterone is the key balancing factor. Dudette: I had a hysterectomy last year for ovarian cysts and endometriosis. Is it necessary to take hormone therapy? And is there anything to get rid of the night sweats besides the Premarin? And does the hysterectomy always result in weight gain? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: The weight gain is do to hormone imbalance, not everyone takes the hormones after this surgery, but most will do better if they balance with the natural estrogen and some testosterone in a low dose, then fine tune upwards with time. Use my natural bioidentical hormones, NOT Premarin. I can help you with a suggestion if you want to call me. MenopauseMama: Dearest, I'll get better at this. Pete do you know of any studies I might read specifically about test groups using women of color. I want to go natural. Because the Premarin is scaring me. Beist you said? Need to learn more. I can't help but remember when test results on men were used to treat women. Thank you, Pete and Dearest. Dearest: You're doing fine MenoMama :) MenopauseMama: Thank you, Dearest. Dearest: Menomama, there's an excellent article to familiarize you more with natural hormones on the Power Surge Web site at www.power-surge.com/educate/yourhormones.htm There are excellent articles in the Educate Your Body area at www.power-surge.com/educate.htm Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: I do have an article about Bi-Est, that I can email you, and I know of NO studies using women of color in particular, my email for the request is consultph@bpharmacysolutions.com. MenopauseMama: I'll check that, great!!! Dearest: The site is a wealth of information :) MenopauseMama: Thank you this is a beginning. Dearest: MenopauseMama, you should have received my welcome letter that includes all those links. BSpence: What exactly will the DHEA do for me and is the DHEA you sell the same as the DHEA found in health food stores? Also what are the side effects of any of the testosterone cream you spoke about (swelling,soreness?) Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: DHEA has about 26 different uses, better energy, better libido, helps with decreased auto immune problems, weight loss, and more. The DHEA that I sell is Pharmaceutical Grade and micronized for best absorption vs. the food grade in the grocery stores. The testosterone cream, if used in too high of a dose, can cause hair growth, and acne. Shar: Is it safe to use natural HRT simultaneously with other alternative remedies like black cohosh, black currant supplementation and OTC (over the counter) progesterone cremes? Dearest: Pete is kind enough to stay overtime tonight. Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: It is mostly safe, but you shouldn't need black cohosh when on natural HRT, and if it includes the progesterone then the cream would not be necessary either. The black currant is fine to use. Angel51: Is Bi-Est a plant derivative? I take 1 mg. Lorzepam to sleep at night, would this affect the Bi-Est or would the Bi-Est also help insomnia? Dearest: Shar, check out the recommendations page at www.power-surge.com/recommend.htm That includes all the vitamins, herbs, minerals you can use to treat your meno symptoms - plus natural hormones and Revival Soy Protein. Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: The Bi-Est would also help the insomnia, and maybe eliminate the lorazepam. The Bi-Est is partly estriol from yam and partly estradiol from soy. Angel51: Thank you, I will give you a call. Dearest: You can call Pete at: 1-800-728-0288 Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: This has been one of the best Chat rooms that I have guested in over the past 8 years, and I appreciate all the excellent questions. I thank you very much for having me! Dearest: :) Angel51: Thank you, what is the other part if Bi-Est is partly plant? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: Estriol is from the yam plant and the estradiol part is from the soy bean plant. 2 parts, both being from plants. Shar: Is the house doctor still available through your pharmacy with a fee to order prescriptions once you receive histories and test results? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: Yes, he is available. MaryO: It seems like a lot of women on the message boards are complaining about dizziness a lot lately. Is there anything that you can suggest for them, besides visiting the doctor? Pete Hueseman, R.Ph., P.D.: It could be from too much progesterone, or even lack of estrogen. It could be a virus in the ear. 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, http://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 at consultph@bpharmacysolutions.com. 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 fourteenth transcript Read Pete Hueseman's fifteenth transcript Read Pete Hueseman's sixteenth transcript Read Pete Hueseman's seventeenth transcript Read Pete Hueseman's eighteenth transcript Read Pete Hueseman's nineteenth 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.