There are several main types of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) tablets used for transgender hormone therapy and menopausal hormone therapy. The specific medications prescribed will depend on the person's individual needs and goals. Some key types of HRT tablets include:
Estrogen tablets - These supply estrogen to increase estrogen levels in the body. Common estrogen tablets used for transgender women include *estradiol*, *estropipate*, and *conjugated estrogens*. These help feminize features and suppress testosterone production. Popular brand name estrogen tablets include Estrace, Ogen, and Premarin.
Anti-androgens - These medications block testosterone receptors or reduce testosterone production. They are often prescribed along with estrogen to help trans women further suppress testosterone effects. Spironolactone and cyproterone acetate are two widely used anti-androgen tablets. Balance Hormone Clinic provides spironolactone and can advise on anti-androgen options.
Progestins - Progestins like *progesterone* and *medroxyprogesterone* may be added to an estrogen regimen to help mimic the female menstrual cycle. They are not always necessary for trans women but may provide breast development benefits. Prometrium is a common brand of progesterone tablets.
Testosterone tablets - Testosterone tablets such as *testosterone undecanoate* are prescribed for trans men to increase testosterone levels and induce masculine changes like facial hair growth and voice deepening. Popular brand names are Andriol and Jatenzo.
Aromatase inhibitors - Medications like *anastrozole* can help block estrogen production in trans men. This suppresses female sex characteristics. Arimidex is a commonly prescribed aromatase inhibitor tablet.
DHT blockers - Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) blockers like *finasteride* and *dutasteride* may be prescribed to prevent male pattern baldness that testosterone can cause. Finasteride tablets sold as Propecia are a well-known DHT blocker option.
There are also combination tablets designed to have dual effects. For example, Oclustrel tablets contain both estrogen and progesterone to serve as a convenient combination HRT pill.
The number and types of HRT tablets prescribed will depend on the treatment goals. Key factors include whether masculinization or feminization is desired, the person's hormone levels and health status, and risk factors like potential cardiovascular impacts.
Balance Hormone Clinic offers personalized transgender hormone therapy and menopause treatment plans to meet each patient's needs. Our caring providers listen to your goals and take a tailored approach to find the right HRT medications and doses to help you feel your best. We provide ongoing monitoring to ensure hormones are in ideal ranges for your transition or menopausal symptom relief.
In summary, while there are a wide variety of HRT tablet options, the specific regimen prescribed will depend on the individual. Key tablet types include estrogen, testosterone, anti-androgens, progestins, aromatase inhibitors, and DHT blockers. An experienced hormone therapy provider like Balance Hormone Clinic can help determine the ideal mix of HRT medications unique to your transition goals and health profile. Let us help guide you through your hormone replacement therapy journey.
