Hormones · FAQ
How do compounded hormones differ from brand-name hormone medicines?
Short answer
Compounded medications are prepared by a licensed pharmacy for one patient and are not FDA-approved. Unlike FDA-approved brand-name medicines, the FDA does not review them for safety, effectiveness, or quality before marketing. Ask your physician why a compounded hormone is being considered and whether an approved option fits your needs.
An FDA-approved brand-name medication has gone through FDA review for its labeled uses, manufacturing quality, safety, and effectiveness. Compounded medications are prepared by a licensed pharmacy for one patient and are not FDA-approved. The FDA does not review each compounded product before it is marketed.
A physician may consider a compounded medication when an approved product does not meet a patient's medical needs. The prescription may call for a particular strength or dosage form. This does not mean that compounding makes a hormone safer or more effective. Results vary.
Enclomiphene is not an FDA-approved drug. There are also no FDA-approved estriol medications in the United States. For Menopause cream or Testosterone therapy, check the specific prescription rather than assuming its status from the treatment name.
Ask about approved alternatives, known risks, and how your response will be monitored. Terms such as “bioidentical” or “natural” do not establish safety or FDA approval. Your physician and pharmacist can explain the ingredients, directions, and storage rules for your prescription.
Sources
Written by the Verra clinical team · Medical review pending
General information, not medical advice. If you're in crisis, call or text 988.