Hormone changes can affect energy, sleep, mood, focus, weight, and overall quality of life. As these shifts occur with age, many people begin exploring hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Pellet hormone replacement therapy is one option, but it’s not the right fit for everyone.
At Howard Health & Wellness in Naples, Florida, Dr. Corey Howard takes an individualized approach to hormone care, using pellet therapy only when it truly makes sense for the patient.
What Pellet Hormone Replacement Therapy Does
Pellet HRT involves placing small hormone pellets beneath the skin, where they release hormones steadily over several months. This method appeals to those who prefer not to manage frequent dosing and want consistent hormone delivery without daily reminders.
Pellet therapy may be appropriate for certain patients who have difficulty tolerating other forms of hormone replacement or who value long-acting delivery. However, the benefits and limitations vary significantly between men and women.
Pellet Therapy Considerations for Men
While pellet therapy is often marketed heavily to men, Dr. Howard does not consider it the first-line option for male hormone replacement. Injectable testosterone remains the gold standard for men due to its reliability, lower cost, and ease of adjustment.
Pellets limit dosing control once placed and are rarely necessary for men who respond well to injections. For this reason, pellet therapy is used sparingly in male patients.
Pellet Therapy for Women
Hormone therapy for women is far more complex, and pellet therapy may play a role in select cases. Women often require a combination of estrogen, progesterone, and sometimes testosterone, each with different delivery needs.
Pellets may be considered when other options are not well tolerated, but they are not automatically the best choice. Estrogen patches are often easier to tolerate and more affordable. Dr. Howard also offers a custom testosterone gel formulated specifically for women. Progesterone may be compounded or over-the-counter, with both short-acting and long-acting options available.
Because hormone needs change over time, pellet therapy for women requires careful selection, close monitoring, and the ability to interpret lab data accurately.
Start With a Personalized Evaluation
Pellet hormone therapy is not a “set it and forget it” treatment. Dr. Howard’s advanced training in internal and functional medicine allows him to monitor hormone levels, adjust care plans, and guide patients through changes as their bodies respond. Patients also value his accessibility, as he is always available to answer questions, review symptoms, and make adjustments as needed.
To discuss pellet hormone therapy or other hormone replacement options, contact Howard Health & Wellness in Naples, Florida, at 239-331-2285. Telehealth consultations are also available for patients in Park City, Utah.
