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Nightmare with pellets

by Sally M.
(Arkansas)

I am 58 years old. I had a hysterectomy at 48, due to fibroids and ademomysis, kept an ovary. I began having menopausal symptoms at about 52. Have a friend who had good results with bio-identical hormones, so I decided to give them a try this year. Do I EVER regret it! One month ago, I allowed the doc to talk me into subcutaneous estrogen and testosterone pellets. She also prescribed oral progesterone, DHEA, vitamin D and other supplements. (These did not arrive until a week after I got the pellets.)

I immedately gained 8 pounds, which is mostly in the breasts and belly. My breasts are extremely sore - feel like they are on fire. I am tired, my migraines (which I've had since I was a child) have increased.

Two weeks ago, the doctor added 20 mg of progesterone cream. When the symptoms got worse, she increased the dose to 40 mg. For one day, I felt like I was on a diuretic and thought relief was finally on the way. Wrong! All of the above symptoms increased with a vengeance, with nausea and dizzy spells added to the mix.

The doctor said the pellets cannot be removed. How long until they are out of my system? Might they cause permanent damage? Any suggestions what to do for relief?

I read your FAQs and the page on estrogen dominance. Very informative but scary!

Thanks.

Comments for Nightmare with pellets

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Sep 03, 2011
 Nightmare with pellets
by: Wray

Hi Sally I wish doctors were better informed about oestrogen and testosterone. Whether they are bio-identical or synthetic, they still have the same effect on us. It's a great pity they can't be removed, are you sure? It will probably leave a scar, but I think that's a small price to pay. Please see our page on HRT, and these papers here, here, here, here, here here, here, here, here and here on testosterone. It should never be given to a woman, it increases visceral fat, hence your weight gain, plus it increases the incidence of heart disease and cancer. Oestrogen too, plus it causes water retention and inflammation, hence your sore breasts. Progesterone is excellent for sore breasts, see here, here, here, here, here and here. I always suggest rubbing a progesterone cream directly on them. Oral progesterone is the least effective Delivery system as most gets destroyed by the gut and liver. And the amount you were taking is far too low, except to make things worse. I'm running out of space so will start a new comment below. Take care Wray
Sep 03, 2011
 Nightmare with pellets
by: Wray

Hi Sally Progesterone is an excellent diuretic, so your feeling was correct. Amounts over 1200mg/day are given via IV transfusion to brain trauma victims, to prevent the oedema and inflammation that occurs, see here and here. DHEA should never be given to a woman either, as it increases the risk for cysts and cancer, plus increasing testosterone levels, see here, here, here and here. If you do consider increasing the amount of progesterone, please chose a system where it's absorbed well, and do read the page on Oestrogen Dominance again. It can occur when increasing the amount. Progesterone is excellent for migraines, it appears you have always had excess oestrogen, the Fibroids and adenomyosis indicate this, and low progesterone, see here, here, here, here, here and here. The only supplement I can agree about is the vitamin D. The minimum dose should be 5000iu's per day, and the blood level between 70-100ng/ml. Please have a test done, for more info see the Vitamin D Council, GrassrootsHealth and Birmingham Hospital websites. Take care Wray
Sep 05, 2011
 oral delivery method
by: Anonymous

Hi Wray -- can you please explain the difference between oral administration of progesterone vs. other medications? Why does the progesterone get destroyed in the gut when other meds you take orally do not? Trying to understand!
Sep 05, 2011
 removing pellets, new side-effects
by: Anonymous

Thank you, Wray. I will talk to the doctor tomorrow and press her more about removing the pellet. They're very tiny, implanted in my hip (apparently disappears after you put it there), so she said she is not sure she could find it and that I may have to go through a lot of pain for nothing. I agree that a scar would be a small price to pay if it could be done.

I have never been sorrier about any decision I've ever made in my life. This weekend, my hair began thinning noticeably and that my rosacea (which has been under control for years) flared up. I am afraid to imagine what might happen next. I did increase my progesterone cream to 120 mg on my own. Now my breasts are even bigger and my tummy even puffier. (I may or may not tell her I did this...) I did remember that your site warned that things get better before they get worse.

If you know anyone else who has "survived" pellets, or of there's anyone out there who knows a story, please share. It seems that ever day is a new nasty "surprise" and I'd love to know what I could expect. Surely this cannot last forever.

Sally
Sep 06, 2011
 oral delivery method
by: Wray

Hi there Progesterone is a steroid hormone, these are not manufactured in the gut, but within the body. There's no way of protecting them from destruction, apart from altering the molecule. Hence the advent of progestins or the synthetic forms of progesterone, or the synthetic oestrogens. Most of the destruction occurs in the gut, with the acidity of the stomach and high alkaline pH of the intestines. What little progesterone gets through to the liver is metabolised to allopregnanolone, this is an excellent analgesic. But if progesterone is used via injections, suppositories or creams, far more gets carried to the liver, so the analgesic effect is greater. Take care Wray
Sep 06, 2011
 removing pellets, new side-effects
by: Wray

Hi Sally Strange they disappear, as they are designed to release the hormones on a continual basis. If it can't be done, I can only suggest increasing the progesterone substantially, to counter their negative affects. You'll have to experiment with the amount, some days you'll find you need more, others less. It all depends on your stress levels, as stress drops progesterone sharply. I feel you should try the 200mg/day, but you might need more. For encouragement see these comments on high amounts here, here, here and here. I suggest rubbing the cream on your face, see here. It's also an excellent anti-inflammatory. And don't forget to rub it on your breasts too. I'm so sorry this has happened to you, no one deserves it. Please see this page here on the pellets, it gives a list of the women who've written in about them. I do hope with sufficient progesterone you won't have a difficult time until they dissolve. Take care Wray
Sep 09, 2011
 update
by: Sally M.

I spoke with the doctor earlier this week. She increased my progesterone cream prescription and told me to feel free to use it liberally. She also increased the oral progesterone. I'm using 60 mg in the morning and 60 mg in the evening of the cream. 300 mg oral at night. The nausea I had has improved, but my breasts are still swollen and on fire. I have eaten a little more than usual this week and I know I have gained some more weight. My clothes are even tighter. For the past month or so, my diet was extremely clean. I was afraid to take in too much or junk food for fear of gaining more. Looks like my fears were justified.

The doctor finally said a general surgeon could remove the pellet, but she couldn't do it herself. I know it would take a while to be schedule for surgery and I honestly can't afford the down time from work. I am hoping this will go away soon. She also said if I am miserable enough, she can put me on tamoxifen to block the estrogen. I don't know much about this except that it is given to cancer patients. I am not sure what to do.
Sep 09, 2011
 P.S.
by: Sally M

The doc also ordered another saliva test, should have the results in a couple of weeks.
Sep 16, 2011
 update and PS
by: Wray

Hi Sally I really believe you should be using only the cream, the oral is a waste of time and money. It's doing little to help you, and only putting a strain on the liver. Please increase the amount of cream you are using, I did suggest you try 200mg/day. You might need more, but this will be dependant on symptoms. The reason you've eaten more is oestrogen upsets blood glucose, plus of course it's causing water retention. This can occur immediately on using it, which causes an apparent weight gain, plus making clothes tighter. The testosterone in the pellet is not helping at all either. Whatever you do, don't touch tamoxifen, rather increase the progesterone, as that will suppress the excess oestrogen, see here and here and here and here. The saliva test will probably show you are full of hormones, and that you have sufficient progesterone too. But what most doctors/labs fail to look for is the ratio between progesterone and oestrogen, this is the critical factor. So both your levels could be high, or certainly in the 'normal' range, but the chances are the ratio will be skewed. When the results come back, divide the progesterone result by the oestrogen result, it should be 600:1 and over to feel well. We've realised this from Saliva Tests we run. You might like to read more about saliva tests here. And please have that vitamin D test done, and consider taking it too, it really does make a huge difference to how we feel. Take care Wray
Jan 21, 2013
 I Wish This Was A nightmare on pellets
by: Anonymous

I had estrogen and totesterone pellets inserted about 6 weeks ago and my breast have been extremely swollen and painful since plus I am bloated, depressed and feel horrible. I am 56 and had a total hysterectomy 9 years ago. I was told that HRT would protect my bones and muscles, prevent breast cancer, helpme loose weight and give me tons of energy. My Dr. said I am just outof ballance and prescribed an oral progestin (which I am afraid to take. I could deal with all this but I had a routine mamogram a week ago and got the results yesterday. It is abnormal and I am so afraid. Everything you hear about pellets is wonderful. Completely safe. I would never have jepordized my health otherwise. I do not want this to happen to anyone else and I hope the lady who wrote before is ok. I am going to call my Dr. and ask for the cream and tell her about my report. Any advice is welcome, please.
Jan 27, 2013
 I Wish This Was A nightmare on pellets
by: Wray

Hi there I find it hard to believe you were told HRT would "protect my bones and muscles, prevent breast cancer, help me loose weight and give me tons of energy". If you read through this page I've given, you'll see it does none of those things, can increase the cancer risk, and will most certainly cause an increase in weight. Oestrogen is a mitogen, causing cells to proliferate, including fat cells. It also causes water retention too, see here, here, here and here. Testosterone is notorious at increasing visceral fat, see here and here. Plus it increases the risk of cancer, insulin resistance and heart disease, see here, here, here, here here, here, here, here and here. Please avoid the progestin, it will only compound the problem. Have a look at our page on Contraceptives for more info about them. I suggest you start using very high amounts of progesterone, at least 200-400mg/day to counter the affects of the hormones you've been given. We have more info on our page How to use progesterone cream and the Menopause page. Take care Wray
May 14, 2013
 Pellet Nightmare!!!!
by: Sheila

As a nurse,I conisdered myself to be informed!After going thru a hyst,2009,I began pellet therapy 3-motns later.I had been on Climara Patch since I was 32 years old due to early ovarian failure.SO,obviously,thinking I would definitely need supplementation after hyst.I went for the therapy.BIG MISTAKE!After two pellet sesssions,two months apart,they call me one day after going back for bloodwork and ask me can I come in asap.I say,sure I;m in town,so they tell me to come on by".When I go in the nurse comes in,never saw the doctor in person",she states"we think you are pregnant".For a minute"I thought I was having a bad dream.Then I get myself together,and I say"Are you crazy,you better look at my chart again,hyst. remember"?You people are crazy."Nver went back.I gained twenty punds,I had lipo,breast reduction.If I can give any advice-NO PELLETS!Go with the progesterone cream and estrogen patches for supplementaion.If you need testosterone,cream or shots!This is the only way for women to avoid the side effects!I'm on patches again with testosterone shots twice a month.Progestrone cream I buy at the health food store-just as good as prescription.Stay away from these clincs that promote hormone therapy.Find a good practioner and go from there.May Hells wrath come down on the docs that are pushing hormone mills for that greedy dollar.May their assses have to carry the load we do!
May 18, 2013
 Pellet Nightmare!!!!
by: Wray

Hi Sheila Thanks for your comments, which I feel all women should read. Some women seem able to cope with them, but I'm not in favour of extra oestrogen, see our page on HRT. And testosterone should never be given to a woman, it increases the risk of cancer and heart disease, see here, here, here, here here, here, here, here and here. It also causes visceral fat to increase, in fact testosterone is certain to give a middle aged woman a middle aged spread, see here and here. Take care Wray
Oct 20, 2013
 bioTE Pellets - miserable
by: Anonymous

I had a total hysterectomy at age 42 and was taking cenestin (estrogen) and felt ok. I then decided to do the estrogen/testosterone pellets 3 months ago. I immediately gained 8 lbs. in two weeks, I started to have swelling in my fingers and toes which now has become unbearable. It hurts to walk or bend my fingers upon wakening. My libido increased but when you feel this miserable, who cares. They also discovered through blood work that I had Hashimoto's disease (hypothyroid). I have been on medication for that for 3 weeks. The doctor tried to tell me that the swelling was due to that but I highly disagree. My skin and hair became incredibly oily. My back is broken out and some on my face. When they took my blood work again at 8 weeks, I was at 40 for estrogen and 168 for testosterone. That is way too high. I'm ready for this to be out of my system and go back to taking the cenestin. It really makes me want to change gynecologist if they are this off on this stuff. I attended a seminar before doing it and they claim that no one has ever discontinued the pellets after starting them. I just want to know if all that I am experiencing is from the pellets, the thyroid or something else.
Oct 21, 2013
 bioTE Pellets - miserable
by: Wray

Hi there It's the testosterone causing the breakouts and oily skin and hair. This is the reason teenage boys get Acne far more frequently than girls. Your level was way above the normal range, see our page on Hormone Testing. The swelling is due to excess oestrogen, it causes water retention. I don't feel any woman needs extra oestrogen or testosterone. The oestrogen you were taking comes with the same risks as any HRT, see here. Your doctor is wrong, the symptoms are due to the pellets, these are some more comments here. I doubt if anyone at the seminar would say women had discontinued them, they'd make no sales. If your Libido was low, you might like to look through this page. It seems dopamine is the most important thing for a good libido, progesterone too. This comment came in today, although by a man, it does give you some idea, see here. Lack of vitamin D can cause Hashi's, see here, here, here, here, here and here. A lack of iodine too, did they check your levels before giving meds? Probably not as they never do. Tyrosine and selenium are vital to the manufacture of T4 and T3, I doubt they checked these either. It's far easier just to sell a drug. Take care Wray
May 11, 2014
 BHRT pellet therapy
by: Anonymous

I'm 54 and had pellet therapy. After 6 days I suffered a severe migraine and had to be taken to emergency care. I continued to suffer from migraines and headaches over the next 6 months. I'd had an ablation 6 yrs prior with no complications and my annual checkups were always normal. BHRT doctor (different dr from my regular dr) did not give progesterone with estradiol/testosterone tx. I began to gain weight and didn't feel great. After 3 months I began to have sever pelvic pain on and off so I had an ultrasound done. It revealed I had a large fibroid tumor and an ovarian cyst. My new Dr. was very concerned and immediately put me on progesterone. He recommended I have a complete hysterectomy asap. I went home and did more research about risk associated with estrogen/testostrone treatment with no opposing progesterone. Estrogen should NEVER be given without progesterone regardless if pt has had hysto in my opinion. My testosterone level was 240 which is way too high for women and prolonged periods of high levels of testosterone can cause insulin resistance. I didn't have hair loss or acne but my glucose levels were high. After surgery the pathology report came back very alarming. Had I gotten a second round of pellets I would be fighting for my life from ovarian cancer! BHRT is a highly specialized field and should only be done by practitioners with 20 plus yrs experience. I wouldn't recommend pellet therapy because there is no way to adjust once they are in. It takes 4 to 6 months to completely dissolve. Additionally thyroid treatment seems to go along with BHRT but if you have Hashimoto disease iodine can complicate tx. Best advice I could give from my experience is do your research. There is a ton of info out there from different sources. However, there are a wide variety of opinions which can make it difficult for non-medical people. I suspect we will see serious complications surface and lawsuits from BHRT pellet therapy because more and more inexperienced practitioners are treating patients to capture the financial upside. Its been 8 weeks since surgery and I'm feeling better. I take very low dose of estrogen/progesterone/testosterone troche. Testosterone is produced from outer lining of ovary and I believe a low does is needed and safe. I researched this in depth and that is my take away. I hope my story will offer some addition info and a different prospective.
Aug 31, 2014
 troche problems
by: Anonymous

on troche my dr raised my testosorone levels 5wks ago and started to get hair growth on chin pimples and my hair is falling out I am so scared . waiting blood results I am so scared my hair is not going to come back
Mar 15, 2015
 low estrogen
by: Anonymous

Hi Wray My blood estrogen is 0.3. Testosterone is normal. Dr never asked for a progesterone test. Wants to put me on BioTe pellets. I don't want to but have miserable hot flashes, night sweats, fatigue, inflammation, heart arrhythmia, angina, bloated, indigestion problems, the list goes on and on. I had a complete hysterectomy 10 years ago and I'm worse off now than before. Please help.
Mar 26, 2015
 Pellets are horrible!!
by: Anonymous

I wish I had found this website before I started the pellet therapy. I had a hysterectomy 10 years ago and cannot take synthetic hormones due to migraines. My initial lab work on 07/03/2014 was FSH 77.1 and Testosterone <17. On 07/17/2014 I had 125mg Testosterone and 12.5 mg of Estradiol implanted. Repeat lab work on 08/27/2014 revealed FSH 43.2, Testosterone 124, Estradiol 27.9. I was re-pelleted again on 11/19/2014 with 10mg Estradiol and 137.5 Testosterone. Repeat lab on 02/17/2015 revealed FSH 36.4, Testosterone at 122. Even with my Testosterone being that high, the dr added more pellets on 02/26/2015 - 6mg Estradiol and 137.5 Testosterone. I was already having trouble with acne on the 02/26/2015 visit and questioned him putting in more testosterone with it already being that high. Mind you, normal is 17-76! I went to a different provider last week with horrible symptoms...migraines, acne on face, chest and back; bleeding gums, depression, horrible taste in my mouth, crying, irritable, itching, no interest in doing anything, no self-worth, night sweats, etc. My "new" provider decided to do lab work. My Estradiol level is at 152 and Testosterone level is 467!!!! I am being told there is nothing that can be done about this and it will take about six months to get out of my system. I have even contacted Biote Medical and asked them what to do to make these symptoms go away and they said to give it a couple of weeks. Does anybody out there have any suggestions?
Apr 06, 2015
 testosterone pellet nighmare also
by: Anonymous

Last year I started taking bio identical progesterone capsules prescribed by my Doctor and for the only reason of having increased irritability. They were compounded and I took them days 15-21, not sure if they were helping really I took the advice of my husbands friend who suggested seeing a Dr who specialized in pellet therapy. My husband is seeing him for his low testosterone and his weight gain.
I went to him and my testosterone was 24, avg is 17-76 but he assured me I needed the pellets and I even asked about progesterone and he right away said I needed testosterone. WHAT A NIGHTMARE! After the pellets and about a week into it I was even MORE irritable! I'm gaining weight where I should be losing as I'm more active than ever! I have NEVER had acne or zits on my forehead NOW I am breaking out on my forehead and chest and back and finding black hairs on my chin that I NEVER had before!!!!!!
I had my injection the middle of Feb and now just waiting for it to GET OUT! Went to another doctor and going to try the creams. Just waiting for my saliva tests to come back on that.
I think the testosterone pellets is a money grab for sure when they try and give to women. So upset about all of this! ahghghghghgh
Apr 15, 2015
 testosterone pellets
by: Anonymous

I too wish I found this site before I was injected with testosterone. I am a breast cancer survivor and have read about bioidentical hormones a great deal. I was so excited to find a local obgyn that dealt with bioidentical hormones. In my readings, I found that estrogens need to balance the progesterones to get the optimal health benefits especially for someone who was diagnosed with ER+Pr+ breast cancer. therefore, when this doctor only talked about testosterone pellets i immediately asked him about progesterone. He dismissed this and tried to downplay my readings stating that he is an expert in the field. I was injected with 25mg of testosterone in late February and I have gained a lot of weight in my abdomen and have broken out on my cheeks and chin and continue to lose hair. I told him I already have thinning hair but he dismissed me. I have not gotten any benefits as I still have severe hot flashes and irritability. He told me my libido would improve which hasn't happened either. My testosterone levels went from 25 to 68 and my estradoil is up to 213 which scares me a great deal. Do you have any suggestions for me and can I buy a progesterone cream on my own at a health store to counteract this estrogen? I really don't want to go back to this doctor.
Apr 16, 2015
 testosterone pellets Part 1
by: Wray

Hi there I still find it hard to believe, after having advised women for nearly 20 years, that doctors still insist on pumping women full of testosterone! What on earth do they expect to happen, obviously exactly what's happened to you. There are studies they could read. The weight gain over the stomach that occurs in P-M and menopause, commonly called 'middle age spread', is related to hormones, particularly testosterone. But obviously if we're injected with it, the affect is quicker. In fact the menopausal ovary is an androgen producing organ, see here. Testosterone is notorious at causing visceral fat, see here and here. Plus the menopausal woman has a great capacity for producing oestrogen in adipose cells, see here. So the two hormones combined ensure a middle aged woman will get a middle age spread. Free testosterone rises if SHBG (sex hormone binding globulin) drops. Free testosterone is metabolically active, if bound to SHBG it's not. Fructose, sucrose and glucose cause an 80, 50 and 40% reduction in SHBG, see here. It's essential to avoid all sugars, even those hidden in grains, legumes and sweet, starchy fruit and veggies. Progesterone raises SHBG substantially, which causes testosterone to drop, see here. And this paper… "As testosterone progressively dominates the hormonal milieu during the menopausal transition, the prevalence of MetS increases, independent of aging and other important covariates. This may be a pathway by which cardiovascular disease increases during menopause.", see here. And more here, here, here and here. Continued below
Apr 16, 2015
 testosterone pellets Part 2
by: Wray

Hi there It doesn't surprise me your oestrogen has risen either. The body has a fail safe method of reducing high levels of testosterone by converting it into oestrogen via the enzyme aromatase. Ironically this also occurs to men who are given testosterone replacement therapy. They start to develop Man Boobs due to the testosterone converting into oestrogen. And of course testosterone can and does cause Acne. And thinning hair! Excess testosterone also causes Anger and aggression. I could go on. We do make a progesterone cream you can order from our website. It's as natural as we can make it. If you do try it please read these pages on How to use Progesterone Cream, Oestrogen Dominance in particular, Peri-menopause and Menopause. We do have info on Cancer too. Take care Wray
Apr 16, 2015
 help me balance hormones
by: Anonymous

Thank you so much for responding promptly! I really am interested in starting the cream. What dosage would you recommend given my estrogen level is 213? I also will look into a vitamin D home kit. I really can't wait for this testosterone to be out of my system. Is there a way to test my estrogen levels through a site so I know when my estrogen levels have decreased since I do not want to go back to this doctor. Also, do you think I should continue to take progesterone given my breast cancer history. Through my readings, it appears the balance between estrogen and progesterone is key. Thank you so much for any help you can give to me:)
I live in the Philadelphia/ baltimore area- do you know of any good specialists in this area?
Apr 17, 2015
 help me balance hormones
by: Wray

Hi there The amount to use is impossible to tell, although I do say no less than 100mg/day, but in many instances 200mg/day is needed, sometimes more, particularly in the early stages. Please do have a vitamin D test done, it's so important. Not least a lack of it reduces the benefits of progesterone. There are a few labs who do testing without the need of a doctor, have a look at these ….
Direct Healthcare Access II Laboratory offer a comprehensive panel of tests, plus advice
ZRT Labs offer a comprehensive panel using saliva, blood or urine tests
Genova Diagnostics UK offer blood or saliva testing
Genova Diagnostics USA offer blood or saliva testing
Trace Elements offer mineral hair analysis
Analytical Research Labs offer hair analysis
Request A Test offer a full testing panel from A to Z

Please read the page I gave you on cancer. And these two here and here. I wish I could advise on a specialist, but I only know of one and he's in California. Take care Wray
Apr 18, 2015
 thank you
by: Anonymous

Thank you for your information- I will read all this information and figure this out:)
May 11, 2015
 Are BioTE Pellets Right for Me?
by: Anonymous

Wray,

I had a total hysterectomy in late 2013. My doctor put me on 0.05 mg Estradiol patch and eventually increased the dosage to 0.1 mg. This alleviated the hot flashes and night sweats for a couple of months, but the symptoms returned. Then I tried BHRT creams with estradiol, testosterone & progesterone, but it never totally helped with symptoms. In addition I was sleeping and had severe vaginal dryness and itching. After a lot of trial and error over a 7 month period I decided tried the BioTE pellet therapy. I was hoping it would be the answer to my prayers. The pellets last from 4-6 months. I am on my second round of them and my energy is non-existent, sleep is terrible and the brain fog is really scaring me. Not to mention the weight gain and lack of overall enthusiasm in life. I can tolerate a lot, but am at my wits end. What are your thoughts? Should I perhaps go back on the patch and supplement with
progesterone cream? Thanks for your time! :-)
May 14, 2015
 Are BioTE Pellets Right for Me?
by: Joy

Hi there - another Anonymous asked about BioTE Pellets back in October 2013, not sure if that was you as your stories are the same.

Not only are pellets a disaster for you, they are disastrous for ALL who use them! No woman needs to take extra estrogen and testosterone as mentioned in the comments on this thread by Wray. Please read these comments, you will find the answers to your questions. Wray gives a page to read where people who have been on pellets have written in and advised against them.

Please read the this thread carefully.
May 17, 2015
 ok Wray what TO do instead of what NOT to do
by: Suzanne

I've been reading through this thread , I see I'm not the only one who had gained a ton of weight on hrt , I see that Wray has reasons why weight gain and water retention occur, but what I don't see is a clear choice for those of us who felt awesome on hrt but miserable with the extra 15 pounds . Am I missing something here ?
Jul 16, 2015
 BioTe nightmare
by: Anonymous

In reading through these comments, I am just saddened. I, too, got the pellets in April 2015. I am now 3 months into them and the effects have been life changing. I have put on so much weight that I've changed my entire diet. I have cut out gluten, sugar and caffeine just to attempt to slow down the weight gain, however, 6 weeks into the diet change, I am still gaining weight. I had a total hyster. in 2004 and have been unable to tolerate HRT due to endo. The dr that talked me into these pellets said that they are completely safe and won't cause any side effects. I have NEVER had acne, not even as a teen (I'm now 41). I have acne on my face and severe acne on my chest and back. I can't wake up in the mornings, regardless of how much sleep I get and have NO energy.....NONE..... I am so mad at myself for not doing proper research. I also suffer from severe adhesions (4 surgeries) and, unknown if it is related, but the pain is worse than ever now. If you are considering pellets, I would beg you to find another solution.
Jul 28, 2015
 Sorry
by: Anonymous

So Sorry! I am nearing the end of the 6 months of the pellets and am starting to feel like myself again. Hang in there... the acne is lessening and my abdomen seems less bloated and upset. I am praying by the end of August, I am back to my old self again. Even though I know my old self isn't the optimal me, I will welcome it now as opposed to this testosterone pellet effect on me!!!
Jul 29, 2015
 ok Wray what TO do instead of what NOT to do
by: Joy

Hi Suzanne

I think perhaps you are getting confused. HRT is not natural progesterone, HRT are synthetic drugs which cause adverse symptoms, weight gain being one of them. Those who gain weight on natural progesterone, do so because they have excess estrogen. To overcome this, high amount of progesterone is needed in the beginning. Also if one is deficient in Vitamin D3 it reduces the benefits of progesterone which then causes weight gain.
Jul 29, 2015
 BioTe nightmare
by: Joy

Hi Anonymous

I am so sorry that you have having such a hard time on the pellets, this is exactly why we advise against it. Your acne is due to excess testosterone. No women needs to take extra estrogen or testosterone as Wray has already advise. We should all start to ask our doctors if they would take the drugs prescribed and we also need to insist on seeing the side effects.

To be given the pellets for Endometriosis is madness, now I have heard everything? Endo is caused by oxidative stress and unless the stress is dealt with, you will battle to get rid of it. May I suggest that you try natural progesterone cream, it has helped so many who suffer from it. Please read How to use Progesterone Cream and Estrogen Dominance.

Also do you know what your Vitamin D3 level is as a deficiency reduces the benefits of progesterone and is essential for endo.

Hope this helps.
Aug 06, 2015
 Hysterectomy
by: KLG

I have considered getting pellets, but after reading these reviews I am concerned. I am 45, I had a total hysterectomy at the age of 26, my hormones have not been the same since. I did the patch immediately after surgery, then switched to premarin, I'm currently taking estradilol inj. 2 ml every 21 days. This helps with the hot flashes.
Buy I have no libido, I have gone from 125lbs, to 210, I have no energy. Ihave tried low dose testosterone inj., and that didn't help with anything. So what can I do to help remedy these issues?
Aug 09, 2015
 Hysterectomy
by: Joy

Hi KLG

Gosh what a young age to have a hysterectomy, was it cancer related? The procedure would have put you straight into Menopause so I am not surprised that your hormones have not been the same since. Premarin is probably one of the worst HRT's around. No women needs to take extra estrogen or testosterone for that matter. There are over 100 estrogen mimics in our environment as it is, why take more? Please read Our Stolen Future. It may be helping with your hot flushes now, but it will cause problems for you in the long run. All drug based HRT have a potential to cause harm. Why don't you consider using progesterone cream, it does the job and without any side effects. Because of the HRT etc, you are suffering from Estrogen Dominance.

The jury is still out as to whether testosterone helps with libido, but progesterone does. Amongst other adverse things, testosterone can cause cardiovascular disease, see here and here and is probably the reason for your weight gain, that and excess estrogen caused by HRT.

I suggest that you drop the HRT and testosterone and use progesterone cream instead. Please read How to use Progesterone Cream.

Do you know what your Vitamin D3 level is as a deficiency reduces the benefits of progesterone and is also linked to poor libido.

Hope this helps.
Sep 19, 2015
 Stomach Issues with Biote??
by: Anonymous

So glad I found this site! I too have been gaining weight on Biote despite exercising six days a week and being very strict about what I eat!

Has anyone else experienced stomach issues after you have been on Biote? Almost everything I eat gives me gas despite taking numerous and expensive probiotics!

Thank you!!
Nov 21, 2015
 HELP!
by: Anonymous

I am 56 started going through menopause at 51 tried bio identical creams/trouches for 3 years and the last 2 years I've had BioTe pellets - at first I did est/test with added prog at night - seemed my body hated this combo I am currently on testosterone pellet ONLY. I also take thyroid meds for hypothyroidism As of this January I will have gained a total of 15lbs ! I am only 5'3" I workout everyday and eat clean for the past 40 years I've even done body building competitions in the past
I've never had a hot flash and I don't suffer from dryness
On May of this year 2015 my estrogen level was 24
I AM LOSING IT I'm SOOOOO miserable
I can't lose one ounce no matter what I do
I am considering going off the pellet
PLEASE ADVISE
Jan 01, 2016
 Pellet nightmare!
by: D

Hi, I am 51 and have been post-menopausal for 10 years. I still have all my original equipment🙂. The hot flashes and night sweats, crazy head, depression & fatigue never stopped. I tried prempro first, started bleeding and never stopped. (After 10 years of no bleeding) Then tried compounded vaginal estrogen & testosterone with 200 mg micronized progesterone. Still bleeding. Had uterine biopsy, with atypical cells found.

Then Gyn put me on BioTe pellets. 10mg estrogen & 150 Testosterone with 400mg micro progesterone. After 1 month my testosterone is 318ng/dl. I am extremely anxious and panicky all the time.

My hair is falling out, I had large painful pimples all over my vaginal area. Then the pimples moved to my face & neck. Now at 3 months the pimples have slowed but my hair is still falling out. I do have more energy & libido.

My Question: does anyone know if my hair will grow back? I'm so worried! There are so many negative side effects after menopause and now this. I'm about ready to give up😂 Doctors don't seem to care. My gyno said my testosterone peaked too high! She put too much in! I am also scheduled for another uterine biopsy because I have atypical cells.

I need help!!!!! Anyone have the same issues????
Thank you!
Jan 03, 2016
 Pellet Nightmare!
by: Joy

Hi D

You only have to read this entire thread to realise the negatives of pellets. No woman needs to take extra estrogen and testosterone as explained. You might consider weaning off and trying a progesterone cream which is extremely effective without all the side effects.

Please make sure that your Vitamin D3 level is with range as a deficiency reduces the benefits of progesterone.
Jan 07, 2016
 Love my pellets
by: Lezlee

I got my Biote pellets in march of 2014. I love them. I've had no problems. I had absolutely no testosterone before the pellets so now I have energy to do my job. I feel good also. I have several friends who did this and they are successful. One had diabetes, and after getting some testosterone on board her fasting blood sugar went down into the 90's and have never before been that low. I lost weight and gained muscle.

I don't know what has happened to you ladies, but us here in south Texas feel grateful for having these pellets available.

I also have been on compounding progesterone 200 mg per evening since 2007 and it's the best thing that had happened to me regarding sleep.
Jan 26, 2016
 I'm on my second round of pellets.
by: Anonymous

I have been reading your nightmare stories and wonder if your doctors have been trained right in pellet therapy. I haven't had any of the symptoms you're talking about. I had a total hest.4 years ago and they put me on estrogen (which by the way is pregnant horse urine), got breast cancer 9 months later.I had my reconstruction surgery on my breasts and found out about bioTe pellets from my doctor. At first I wasn't sure about them but my body had been without anything for several years. I take DIM for my breast health and vitamin D3. My doctor is awesome. I just had my second round a little over a week ago and feel great! Blood work is important so you know where your levels are. I've had some pimples but they have gone away with a good skincare system. No weight gain. My hair has quit falling out. I wasn't a big fan in the beginning but I love them now. I feel like they've saved my life. I live in Utah and guess I'm fortunate to have a great Dr.
Jan 26, 2016
 Nightmare with pellets
by: D

Hi Anonymous, I'm in North Texas. My hair is still falling out in handfuls! Was your hair falling out due to the pellets or your cancer? I'm glad to hear your doing good!
Thanks!!
Feb 08, 2016
 Get a new doc
by: Anonymous

I tried for years to a doc to listen to me but they all said - "well you are on the low side (thyroid, hormones) but that is to be expected, you aren't getting younger." Then I had to get new health insurance & a new doc - turned out to be a blessing in disguise, she actually listened to me and we discussed the pellets...

I had the Biote pellet inserted 2 months & I feel like my old self again. Doc also put me on a low dose of progesterone and 30 mg Armour and advise me to take D3 (that I do sporadically).

Yes my breast felt a little swollen at first and I am a little bloated but I'll take that any day to the tired, foggy-headed, crying, push-over menopause had made me. Not only have I regained my spine but I reclaimed my sex-life.

I am an RN and did the research on testosterone - new studies have debunked the relationship between heart disease and testosterone.

If you are having adverse reactions to HRT - get a new doc.
Feb 22, 2016
 How long until the pellet works?
by: Annette

I have had mine in for exactly 2 months and the only thing that has happened is I have gained 10 pounds. Libido is still the big ZERO and no energy or clear thinking etc..Nothing but 10 pounds of blubber and now a little more depression because I look like a cow. It was supposed to help me lose weight not gain it..Even my husband said he didn't notice any change in my behavior (yes I am always grouchy and edgy and easily upset) for the better and maybe its worse. Luckily he has been hanging in there for 4 years and not pressuring me on the sex. ugghhh
BTW my doc is a specialist in hormones and the clinic is based on helping men and women with these issues. So they are specialist and should know..I am pretty sure in meno stage as no periods for 6 months. I still have all of my parts. Is there something else I should be taking?
My tests showed extremely low Testo and high DHEA
Apr 05, 2016
 Bad news pellets
by: Anonymous

So I received testosterone pellets on Jan 20th, blood pressure went up to 259/193, very sick, who knew the lidocaine also included epinepherine of which I am allergic! Next I get horrible anxiety and depression. Then I wake up out of a deep sleep in atrial fib and have an ER visit and cardiology visit. Apparently developed a reaction to red wine. Now my hair and face are greasy, and I have full on acne. I am 56 and praying to get this out of my system. I begged the doctor to remove the pellets, no way. 4 more months and I pray nothing else happens.
Apr 06, 2016
 Almost done
by: Annette

I think I'm done with mine. My second blood test confirmed that my testosterone had skyrocketed and it was not what my body needed. I'm starting on armour thyroid and Zoloft to see if I can get through this without losing my marriage or job. Maybe they can figure out women's Viagra :-) :-) :-)
I shouldn't complain about my symptoms as yours are way more severe. They extreme anxiety is a killer but it will go away when the pellet is dissolved. Most of it anyway. Live and learn I guess
Apr 11, 2016
 Desperate!
by: Anonymous

Can someone who is a breast cancer survivor and who has been on progesterone cream and D3 tell me how they are feeling? I was on testosterone pellets which was the opposite of what I needed. I believe in the progesterone treatment but don't want it to backfire like the testosterone did. I'm having hair loss, bloating, weight gain, heart palpitations, insomnia, acne and hot flashes. My period is sporadic as of the last 6 months. I am 49 and I got ER+ PR+ breast cancer at age 37. Any info can help- pro or con.
Apr 16, 2016
 Sore site
by: Anonymous

Has anyone had issues with soreness or lump at insertion site? Had my pellets inserted 5 weeks ago and site is still sore and can fill a lump. Had course of antibiotics . Dr went in again to see if maybe it was pellets but couldn't find anything. Can't even sit down. Hope goes away soon? Any ideas??
May 30, 2016
 Very concerned
by: Tonya

I've been on the bio-te testosterone pellets for at least a year. My libido increased, energy was so so and I noticed more facial hair. After the 2nd or 3rd session I notice weight gain. Water retention and Visceral fat. I inquired about this being caused by the pellets and was told that initially it could cause some water retention but that that would correct itself. Well IT DIDN'T. .I'm now the heaviest I've ever been and I seem to have constant water retention. I feel horrible and to make things worse I look like a cow and for the first time in years I don't want to go on the beach in a two piece. I thought it was my eating but I'm really a clean eater and I began cutting out my occasional alcohol, did a 14 day paleo cleanse and did not budge an ounce. This is not normal for me, I usually can loose weight. I just turned 50 and I have all my parts, no doubt I'm pre menopausal but I really feel like I have not done my body any favors with the pellets. I am due pellets tomorrow but to my Doctors surprise I will be turning them down and asking to go back on my progesterone cream as I have been on the oral. Please someone tell me that by quting the pellets that I will get back to normal. I need some encouragement, please..
May 31, 2016
 Pellets
by: Joy

Hi all - I am wondering if you are all reading this ENTIRE thread! Please pay particular attention to what Wray is advising. We do not recommend pellets at all, the negative effects that they have are simply not worth it. Wray provides links and study papers, please read them.

Thanks.
May 31, 2016
 Problems with Pellets
by: Anonymous

Hi Tonya,

I feel your pain! You described everything I had except the bloating. Slowly, I am starting to feel like I did before I had the pellets. It's been almost a year. You will feel better, eventually. I am still trying to lose the excess weight I gained but at 49 it is coming off very slowly.
Jun 01, 2016
 There is hope
by: Anonymous

It takes all my effort to lose weight after taking testosterone pellets one time!!!! I just lost 10 lbs and am back to my old weight by doing the Atkins diet. I am lethargic but I am being very struck with it. It's is the only thing that budged my weight in 1 1/2 yrs. I will begin to add berries and squashes next week for energy so I can go back to spin class and weights next year. I feel your pain- it's just not fair! Hang in there!
Jun 02, 2016
 Weight loss after pellet
by: Annette

I can say that the pellet is officially out of my system because now I am having extreme hot flashes that I never had before and my weight loss was only due to my husband leaving me and Im sure my hormonal bitchy life had a lot to do with that and no sex life. But we are working it out now that I can actually get my mental thoughts together. I would NEVER recommend the pellets even if they do work for some, they are not worth it and the benefits are ???? none found with me..
Jun 02, 2016
 Reply to coment anonymous
by: Tonya

Was your pellets just testosterone or did it have estrogen too?
Jun 06, 2016
 Weight loss after pellet
by: Annette

Mine was Testosterone only and within a month it was so for above what it should be that I don't think I should have had a pellet maybe something a little more easily to control as far as dosage.
That wouldn't give the estrogen because of my family history of breast cancer...
Jun 07, 2016
 Reply
by: Tonya

Annette, thanks. I only had the testosterone pellets. I had them well over a year. I had water retention and viseral fat gain. It helped my libido the first several times I used it but for the last two I didn't note much in that area. I was told that mine never reached the optimal level. I went back to the progesterone cream instead of the oral. I get much better results with the cream. Anyway, I'm hopeful and feeling less bloated...yay
Jun 11, 2016
 BioTe pellets & Permanent Hair Loss
by: D

Hi, it took the BioTe pellets 7 months to get out of my system. The 150mg. Testosterone caused 40% Hair loss on the top of my head. I am 51 and have been post menopausal for 10 years. No one cares! My Gyno or the makers of BioTe. I have contacted them several times. They said my hair would grow back....it didn't!!!!!!
I feel so bad for women that are not being told the side effects before getting the pellets. I also had a lot of other disturbing side effects because my testosterone 'peaked' at 318ng/DL.
I haven't taken any other hormones at all after the nightmare with the pellets.
Jun 13, 2016
 Biote
by: Anonymous

Sorry that happened to you D. If I were you, I would contact an attorney.
Jun 24, 2016
 Back pain
by: Anonymous

Anyone have any back pain after pellets? Had mine put in 2weeks ago and after week have soreness all over, burning sensation. Hurts to lie down or sit. Site healed no redness, just pain! Plus not feeling any results yet.
Jul 06, 2016
 Pellets are making me sick
by: Anonymous

I am 58 and postmenopausal. I decided on the bio identical pellets in February 2015. I seemed to do really well until my most recent insertion on 5/30/16----5 miserable weeks ago. When I say I did well prior to May of this year, I mean no hot flashes, increased libido, more energy; however I just can't seem to lose any wait, and I have hair in places that I never had to worry about before; also an increase in acne on my chest. But, again, I did pretty well until one week post recent insertion - 6/6/2016. I have been sick ever since. Headaches, insomnia, depressed, very scary anxiety, breasts that are so sore and lump I can't stand to touch them, chest pain, muscle aches, nausea. I called the GYN and they drew labs, but have yet to get back to me with the results. I went to my PCP yesterday and he said he feels sure that I have an overload of testosterone in my body and he is not surprised by any of my symptoms. He said I don't need the pellets EVER again. It's been 5 weeks, and every time I think I'm getting better, I am hit with a horrible anxiety attack. I feel wired and can't be still. My PCP is also awaiting the results of my testosterone labs. Says we will decide what to do at that point. I would tell everyone I know, don't take the pellets. I'm told I may not feel better for 6 months. Horrible.
Jul 07, 2016
 Nightmare! Don't do it!!!
by: Anonymous

Think about it. If the dosage is too high and/or you have a horrendous reaction, like I did, you can't discontinue them. In hindsight, why would any ethical doctor recommend a months-long course of treatment that can't be discontinued??? Think long and hard on that one. I'm scared to death. I did it on the recommendation of a friend. That is NOT research. I feel like such a fool. Check out BioTE's website. Specifically their appeal to "new providers". It's ALL about increased revenue for doctors. Slick, slick marketing. Dosages individualized for each patient? How on God's green earth would they know (even with labs) what is optimal, normal or even safe for YOU. Everybody's body chemistry is different. Fact is, they don't know. It's a crapshoot that they'll gladly take along with your money. If you have BAD reaction? "Well my goodness, we've never heard of anyone having a bad response!" What a predatory racket.
Jul 07, 2016
 Pellets are making me sick
by: Susan

At $330 a pop and the fact that insurance won't cover it, it's all cash in their pockets. I was told yesterday, finally, that my testosterone level is 220; the range is 2 - 45!!!!! The nurse said, "honey, your test results are normal and the doc said just give it time, and you'll feel better!!" How the holy hell is 220 normal when the range is between 2 and 45? I printed my lab results off the patient portal and it even says "HIGH" beside those results!!! I am so mad. I was able to finally pull up results from a year ago and my levels were high then, so this crap has been building up in my body for at least a year. I feel so stupid. I should have done better research. I am furious and sick, My primary care doctor says it's going to take time, lots of physical activity, and close monitoring by him. What a mess.
Jul 09, 2016
 Too much testosterone as well
by: Anonymous

They gave me too much testosterone as well. I gained a significant amount of weight that I still haven't been able to lose, ugh!
Jul 23, 2016
 Testosterone reached just about 500!! Nightmare!!!!
by: Anonymous

Like many here, I had a total hysterectomy, and they took both ovaries, so my gyn put me on Premarin, i was only 33 and 42 now. One year to the month, I switched to the pellet as had started to develop Melasma from the Premarin (another horrible side affect from HRT). BioTe product was supposed to be better all around and when the clinic showed me my blood work, they said I was borderline hypothyroid and had me start naturthroid as well. Come to find out later I didn't need and ended up needing an endocrinologist to help me for 4 months get my system back in shape. They told me to take the amount I thought was good so self medicate basically guiding me to take more though based on symptoms. Now back to pellets. After first round they ended up doing second insertion booster. After all was said and done I ended up with a few different doctors running blood tests as my testosterone had reached almost 500!! I had cystic acne so bad, Melasma had become out of control as estrogen had also gone crazy, I had massive hair loss on top of head and still losing some. The worst is I now have permanent constant growth of heavy "light colored hair" on my face which grows heavy that I have to have removed about every 4 days professionally. That is expensive too. I cannot express how much of a nightmare this has been and I have barely left the house much of e last year, the best advise Is to ask your doctor about Spirolactone (sp?). It is supposed to counter androgens, caused by testosterone which can cause acne and hair growth. Good luck to all of you but please, please listen to these warnings. I'm now doing the patch but still fighting left over side effects like Melasma (much lighter now though) and few others but far less than the pellet. I would love to get off of all HRT but afraid of aging any faster without Estrogen replacement as have already Been through early menopause. Maybe i won't though? Any feed back on that one would be great or anyone that has had success talking to the company regarding these horrible side effects as I would like them to take serious and inform patients. Thank you.
Jul 26, 2016
 lawsuit
by: Anonymous

I wonder, with all this information, if we could sue the pellet company. Get this, after one insertion of testosterone, I went back to my doctor for a follow up and then got a letter in the mail stating that my doctor was leaving the practice to pursue the insurance side of gynecology. He didn't even have the decency to tell me he was leaving before starting me, a breast cancer survivor who questioned him thoroughly, on these horrible pellets. I should have known better as a few of his assistants had thinning hair and were overweight and I thought to myself, Why aren't these women using the pellets! I wonder what he will benefit financially working for the insurance company. Im thinking he probably is working hand in hand with the pellet company. It's a scam!
Jul 31, 2016
 Help: does the weight go away when pellets are out of system?
by: FatFromPellets

I was always 137-140 pounds. I took bioidentical testosterone shots every three weeks for three years and it helped my sex drive, muscle mass, and body composition. I didn't take a very high dose, however. I have taken oral compounded progesterone for three years at 150 mg per night. No problem.

I had pellets inserted (100 mg testosterone and 25 mg estradiol) after blood work revealed a normal level of estradiol and a relatively high level of free testosterone. My doctor said that optimally the levels of each hormone should be higher and suggested pellets. He wanted to insert 100 mg of estradiol and I insisted he only insert 25 mg. Thank goodness!

I have gained fifteen pounds since the first insertion 8 months ago. I had my labs done after my second insertion and it revealed EXTREMELY HIGH (I don't remember actual amounts) testosterone, estradiol and progesterone.

It is four months since the last insertion. I have done Atkins for three weeks with zero effect. Before the pellets, I would have lost ten pounds in that time on the Atkins diet!

I just want to know: WILL THIS WEIGHT GO AWAY WHEN THE PELLETS ARE GONE? ANYONE.....??????
Aug 16, 2016
 Horrible Experience
by: Sheila

I had the pellets inserted two months ago and I have had a headache the entire time. Just like most everyone else has said the Dr and nurse seem to think I am making it up. I am hoping and praying that this nightmare will be over soon.
Sep 22, 2016
 Estrogen pellet horrible
by: Jackie

51 yrs old. Early menopause since age 40. Got compunded testosterone pellet Feb 2016 no problems. In June was time to get another
Decided to go with biote and decided to get estrogen pellet as well. After about 3 weeks later my breast got so sore and like fill with rocks.. They hurt soooo bad. Was also taking 100mg progesterone pill at night.. I heard if i backed off the progesterone a bit that might help my breast pain.. Big mistake i didnt take it for about a week and started bleeding. Havent had period in 10 years now for 2 weeks have bedn bleeding
Increased my progesterone to 200mg nightly to stop the bleeding but after 7 days still has not. Miserable Missrable Miserable
Sep 22, 2016
 BHRT and thyroid
by: Anonymous

I've had two rounds of pellets. My only real problem with the therapy has been repetitive episodes of cramping and bleeding, which I believe is due to oral progesterone not being effective (think I will switch to a cream). I'm still not sure what I think about BHRT overall, although I have to admit it has been great for libido. I will say, however, that the clinic has done a super job getting my thyroid meds on track. I had a thyroidectomy years back and found that most endos are extremely ignorant about thyroid treatment. For ladies who are gaining weight and losing hair, they should definitely have a full thyroid panel done. Sex hormones and thyroid hormones do affect each other and this should not be overlooked.
Oct 20, 2016
 To Jackie
by: D

My case is similar to yours. Early menopause at 40. I had so much bleeding after BioTe pellet (overdose). I ended up having a d&c and a hysreroscopy because the bleeding never stopped and my uterine lining was too thick from the hormones! It has been a year since my first and last pellets. My hair never grew back. I lost about 40% on top. I contacted Gary Donovitz, the biote founder. Go on the website and go through the health care provider part to get the 'real' answers. Email him, he needs to know! I don't think anyone cares, it's all about the increase in revenue!
It took about a year before I felt ok. It takes a long time for the anxiety and all the other symptoms to go away. There are also some embarrassing symptoms that no one has mentioned.
I hope you can find a doctor that cares.
Good Luck😊
Oct 21, 2016
 D's comment about additional side effects
by: Anonymous

I just wanted to note that the most recent post from D mentions other embarrassing side effects. Yes!! I agree and have wondered if others ended up with the same as well. Did it ever get better?
Oct 21, 2016
 Pellets
by: Anonymous

If you don't mind, what other embarrassing issues have you had because of the pellets?
Oct 22, 2016
 Other side effects
by: Anonymous

I hope others will chime in so I'm not feeling so lonely in my response and yet I will admit a few.
I was one of the unfortunate ones that ended up with and overdose of the testosterone in my first pellet and it skyrocketed to over 200/300. I'm about 5' and 100 lbs so that is especially crazy!! As you all know, as women, we are supposed to be anywhere from 2-4 to 40 on a high end. Anyhow, I went from a full head of hair, a clear complexion and no facial hair to an intense case of cystic acne, facial hair (that I had to remove w a razor daily) and propecia (hair loss on top and hair line). It was BEYOND upsetting; full on depression and could barely leave the house. Even had to move out of boyfriend house and move due to embarrassment.
I ended up having to take accutane, spirolactone and finasteride to combat all the above. Has now been a year and a half and still on all three but much improved. The hair is now super light and soft but still grows all over my face. I fear that will always be the case now and permanently screwed from this overdose of testosterone. Plus, doctors not sure if hair will grow back all he way on top. Little bit coming back but not really and not even close to what was prior. I have scars from the cystic acne and have spent a small fortune in products and peels at dermatologist to help with all issues. Plus, whenever I start to lower the dose of accutane, it seems to want to come back as skin changed after the testosterone. Living nightmare beyond imaginable..
Oct 23, 2016
 RE: Other side effects
by: Anonymous

So sorry to hear you are going through so much! I hope you have talked to an attorney about this! As for me, the facial hair did stop. I do have hair loss but now I believe the cause, for me, is my messed up thyroid that I am working with a doctor to correct. Make sure your ferritin (Iron) levels are at least 60, anything lower can cause hair loss. Sending hugs and prayers your way!
Oct 23, 2016
 Testosterone should not be given to women!
by: Anonymous

That is horrible!!! These doctors prescribing this have got to be held accountable! Thank God I only took one dose of 25grams and that is only because I question my Doctor profusively! I am a breast cancer survivor and he downgraded it from 75 to 25 - always question and trust your instincts! I had all the symptoms as you and I am slowly going back after a year and a 1/2. My hair still isn't back. My weight still up about 5 lbs. I pray you have a reversal of your symptoms, but if not then we should form a class action suit. It's just not right to mess with women's bodies like this!!!- especially cancer patients!!!!
Oct 24, 2016
 Other side effects
by: Anonymous

These side effects happened to me too, I had read up on the pellets and the terrible side effects, but I allowed my doctor to push them ....... BIG mistake. Read what people are saying here, you will see how terrible they are. I can't understand how this rubbish is given by doctors! It took a long time for things to return to 'normal' after I decided to use progesterone, things are still not 100% normal, but I am working on it and following info given on here.

Good luck, I feel your pain.
Oct 25, 2016
 Everyone else, thanks as well:-)
by: Anonymous

Im still trying to figure it out and no, I've never spoken to an attorney. Quite honestly I was hoping that by now, a class action was already in place. To make matters worse, and you all seriously won't believe this, they threw me into hypothyroidism. They had me taking their nature thyroid at the " not really doctor", commercial office I went to when had mine done, ugh. Only if I'd known. So from January 2016 until This June, I have been having everything monitored closely by an Endocrinologist at a major hospital here. She was so pissed off at this place for not managing dosing, etc. thankfully, through her help, my thyroid is now back to normal again as there wasn't anything wrong with it in the first place.
Thanks for all of the words of encouragement as I was concerned I'd reached my one year mark and wasn't back together completely. It was good to hear some of you mention possibly could be 1 1/2.
Nov 07, 2016
 I'm not complaining
by: Life has choices

4 months ago I had BioTe pellets inserted. At 42 I had a hysterectomy and ovaries removed. Been dealing the symptoms of menopause for ever. I did bioidential hormone pills replace for two years after hysterectomy and stopped when feeling great. Now a decade later in the past two years my skin in the groin became so thin I would bleed just wiping myself or have a bowel movement would tear my anus. Horrible Itching and couldn't have sex because it ripped inside my vagina from sexual activity.
In the past months since BioTe I no longer bleed from regular bathroom activity, I sleep, I have more energy. Yes I'm gushy and gained weight. I actually have enough energy that I'm trying to run as exercise.
While not every option is the best option for everyone we have to pick our poison so to speak. I'm going to have my second insertion of BioTe this week. I'm concerned for the weight gain but willing to see what happens. I can't go back to thin skin that rips and tears. I appreciate the information on progesterone. I will see about adding that to my daily routine.
Nov 08, 2016
 Ovarian cancer
by: Trying to Make a Difference

I received my first pellet in August 2015. I did not experience the hair loss or acne. However, I did have weight gain. I was what the doctor considered peri-menopausal at 51. He never did any kind of exam on me - just took my blood to see what my hormone count was. He said I definitely needed the pellet, but I had to go to his Day Spa, not his physician's office to have it inserted. There, he also sold me several supplements that he said I had to have - they were not cheap, let alone having to pay for the pellet. I never actually felt any difference in my libido or my other menopausal symptoms. The follow-up blood test showed my testosterone levels to be very high. My abdomen began to swell and I was so uncomfortable I called him and had to leave a message. He prescribed me a water retention pill. It did no good. I couldn't eat or sleep. I finally got him to see me - I looked 7 months pregnant! He still did no physical exam, just a pelvic ultrasound. The images were on a big screen tv that I could see. He showed me my ovaries - one of them had a large white spot on it. He said not to worry about it!! I ended up in the ER 2 weeks later - I had Stage 3c ovarian cancer. I probably had the cancer before the pellet, but I believe the hormones fed the cancer and caused it to grow quicker. Why is there no testing done before administering the pellet?? Who is the oversight for this treatment? Why is there no lawsuit in the works?? Clearly no one is paying attention to this. I am in remission, but the rate of return for this cancer is 90%. DON'T USE BIOTE!!
Nov 13, 2016
 Bio te pellets
by: DGL

59 year ol female. Tubal only, no hysterectomy. Have had 4 rounds of pellet insertions and compounded progesterone capsule supplement daily. Face and hair oilier than when a teenager. Acne breakouts. Sore breasts and nipples and gained 25 pounds despite careful healthy eating. Facial chin hair and mustache at corners of mouth, dark hair on my belly and sides of my face and increase in belly size and weight gain of 25 pounds. Have not gone back and am now out of progesterone compound about 1.5 months. Woke up to spotting when haven't had a period in 7 years! How long will this go on? What options do I have or should I seek? Haven't seen regular ob-gyn in several years. PCP does Pap smear annually and I get a mammogram annually. After first two insertions noted improvement in energy and libido, but by 3rd it no longer helped at all. Was back to feeling depressed and fatigued. Now with weight gain A1C is at 6.9. Triglycerides always a little high, glucose on the rise. Suggestions???
Nov 14, 2016
 Bio te pellets
by: Alyce

You only have to read the entire post to realize that pellets are so wrong and cause so many horrible things. Suggest you stop having them it's as simple as that.
Nov 15, 2016
 Re: 59 yr old female
by: Anonymous

I'm so sorry to hear you've joined our house of horrors so to speak. Also, typing from device so excuse typos as hard to see, lol. I'm in no way a medical professional and not providing med advice, just one of the above with MANY symptoms including the facial hair, acne, thyroid/ pituitary screw ups from this crap. First, if I were you, I'd stop with the pellets forever.

After trying to work with different docs that weren't very helpful, I've decided to work closely with my primary doc and focus on fixing the issue these pellets created which is hyperandrogenism. I had oophorectomy in 2007 and require something as only 42. However, I'm now doing a low dose patch and although no uterus, have learned through research that need some progesterone to balance out the estrogen. My pellet "fake" doc company (as I call it), never gave me any at all which also compounds the problem as leads to estrogen dominance (symptoms like yours and mine as well).

Here is a link to read about hyperandrogenism as I think it may get you on the right path to start discussing treatment options with your doctor. I've decided to stick with my primary and just work through it together. Now I am treating root cause and not just symptoms. The key for me is balancing my estradiol PATCH level with a natural progesterone in order to help cure the hyperandrogenism. Hugs!!

emedicine.medscape.com/article/273153-overview
Nov 17, 2016
 Re: 59 year old female
by: Joy

Some good advice Ananymous, thank you so much.
Nov 29, 2016
 I had a great experience with Biote
by: CFinFlorida

I'm 48, still menstruating, have Hashimoto's and went through a rough spell with night sweats, extreme irritability, slight depression, confusion, hair loss and exhaustion about a year ago. After tests and investigations, the doctor found Hashimoto's and low testosterone.

I've been on the pellet for 8 months and I love it. It brought my libido back, I have much more stamina, my mood swings and PMS are much less severe and the only side effect I have is back acne, which I control through my dermatologist and a lot of patience.

Too bad some of you have had a bad experience with HRT through the pellet; it has saved my sanity, business and marriage. Best of luck!
Nov 30, 2016
 Beware!
by: Anonymous

Administering anything new, without being able to adjust the dosage is foolhardy. Please think about this. Your Bio-TE practitioner should be warning you. But my experience is - they won't. Too much money at stake.
Dec 08, 2016
 Update on testosterone pellet
by: Annette

A year later after my first insertion of the test pellet I am trying biest cream. 10 lbs gained in one month and bloated beyond water pills helping I'm ornery and emotional and so depressed from the weight gain in the last year with bhrt. I don't know what to do except to deal with hot flashes and depression myself. The anti depressant help emotionally but also part of the weight problem I'm sure. I am going to try synthetic hormones and see if it helps. If not then I guess I will deal with the symptoms of meno. Ughhh so :'(frustrating
Dec 20, 2016
 Still gaining
by: Annette

I wrote Dec 8 2016 about the Biest cream and gaining weight, well I'm still gaining. I'm putting it on so fast I feel like my body is swelling daily and its not water because its not fluctuating. My legs and butt are getting so big that my pants are cutting into me. I gave up on the stomach fat because no exercise is touching it. I can't even starve myself down a few pounds.

I still haven't made it to the doctor to try synthetic but I am done with any bio hormone treatments. I would risk Breast cancer to be back in a healthy state of mind and body.
Dec 20, 2016
 To Annette
by: Anonymous

Sorry you are going through so much! You did say that your anti depressant medication is part of your weight gain problem, can you ask your doctor to put you on something different? Also, I would suggest having your thyroid tested. As for dieting, I would recommend a low carb diet. Good luck to you and keep us posted!
Dec 20, 2016
 re: Anette
by: Coleen

Hi there,
I'm actually "anonymous" that has had all of those horrendous symptoms (read above) and then discussed how I've finally switched to low dose estradiol patch, taking DIM to convert to good estrogens, combined with natural progesterone cream and has made all of the difference. See, I've learned, on my own, no thanks to the medical community, after couple years of thorough research, that the problem with HRT, especially the pellets, is that many of us became estrogen dominant. Severe weight gain is one such symptom. Now again, I'm not in the medical profession and yet my primary doc jokes that I'm well on my way to a degree in endocrinology, lol!! So I always, always do the "I'm not a doc and not giving med advice" thing. I've also read many woman stop the estrogen HRT and are going to progesterone alone. However, for someone like myself, without any ovaries, I need some sort of estrogen from HRT. You, however, may not. From my understanding, estrogen and progesterone should be a 2:1 ratio type thing. Now, that's tough to determine and I'm still playing around with this myself.

The progesterone pills don't work like the natural creams which I've learned the hard way as well. So now I'm on a .025 patch and couple pumps of progesterone a day (I think amounts may depend on your body size, height, weight, etc), and have seen massive improvements. Mu does, however, is based on the fact that I'm about 5' tall, etc. My testosterone was so screwed from the pellets and worked great to resolve those symptoms with this new regimen. So now hair on face down to fuzzy shoft and grows so much less (still growing though more than should so working on that), my head hair has starting to grow back super fast, acne cleared up and for you, my bodies water retention and swelling has gone down. In my experience and understanding, I'm a serious researcher, this estrogen dominance has been the culprit. So if you haven't had that checked yet, you MUST!! I've never, ever, ever, been able to find a GYN or endocrinologist that figured this out for me, had to do it on all my own and only thing that ended up being true... ugh. That's why they call it "practicing medicine" in my opinion;-). The pellets were the thing that screwed me though... that's what has cost me years, thousands of money and heartbreak. I feel for you and hope this helps.
Dec 21, 2016
 45 yrs. hormone replacement...
by: Louise

I had a hysterectomy and oopharectomy at around age 20 due to a terrible infection caused by the Dallkon Shield. Had 2 different surgeries as the doc tried to keep as much as possible. Went on Premarin for about 25 years, not easy, but back then not a lot of info. Thought mood swings was just me and plowed through.

Beginning in '97 started biht via topical creams and have been plowing through. I finally feel good enough at about age 65. I am very dry in my vulva area but doesn't bother me. Blood tests shows I'm low in all hormones so toyed with starting pellets as there is a doc a couple hrs. away that insets them.

My question is, should I keep it simple now, work with my local general doctor, get a estrogen patch and continue with progesterone cream? Only I can answer, but am afraid if I stop topical hormones (also taking low dose of dhea) that I'll go into brain fog etc.? I pay out of pocket for hormones which is o.k. though expensive. Insurance may pay for the patch. Guess I'll have to experiment?
Dec 31, 2016
 Testerone too high with pellets
by: Donna

I'm on my second round of pellets and am miserable! I've had no weight gain but the testosterone is way too much as my libido is out of control! My husband and I are in our late sixties so this is not exactly a welcomed thing. A little would be great but the need for sex is constant for me. I also feel very anxious and panicky all the time. I really just don't feel like myself and it's discouraging because I'm only 6 weeks into my second set of pellets. My hair has completely changed texture and I can't do a thing with the stiff flips I've gotten. I don't want to go anywhere or do anything and that's completely opposite of the way I normally am. I really want to go back on Estradiol because I was happiest then.
Jan 05, 2017
 Coleen, ? on patch...
by: louise

Coleen, just checking to see if your still on the same regiment as I'm toying with the idea of going to a low patch from bioidentical creams. If you read my history in the second to the last comment section, it's been a long road since my hysterectomy, 45 years! The only thing with the patch is the constant delivery system. Our bodies deliver in pulses from what I've read, but then I suppose a low dose of constant delivery with perhaps a couple day break/month wouldn't be bad. I need to make a decision soon as my last doc who dealt with hormones is 5 hours away. I found another "integrative" np 2 hours away. One doc belonged to Bodylogics M.D. and the other Integrative Medicine, both franchises, expensive and don't take insurance. My local gp can give me the patch and progesterone cream. She also recommended DIM. Insurance would pay for part of it. BTW, there are so many patches out there, is there one you particularly like? Hope to hear from you. Warm regards, Louise
Jan 11, 2017
 Bhrt
by: Anonymous

I started on biodentical estrogen, testosterone, and progesterone. I know the comments are about pellets, but I wanted to comment also. I received the estrogen and testosterone cream along with progesterone capsule at night. The side effects are the same as most mentioned on here. I had early menopause age 40. Had read about bhrt for many ailments. Mine were mostly vaginal atrophy. They tried in vain to talk me into the pellets and I am glad I refused, as the cream is just as bad, but I stopped using it before things got worse. I too gained approx. 15 lbs. Seemed like overnight. Big sore breast, for some reason got red rash under eyes. Hair loss, started to become depressed etc...

I stopped after 3 months. The first month I was OK, then downhill from there. I could see that this was going to be a money pit. Just for the meds. And 1 follow up & 2 lab visits I'm out 2000.00, all to feel like crap! I am now trying to lose this excess weight, and as the other women have said it is hard to do where it was not prior to this. I learned the hard way "don't mess with hormones" even if I did feel better on them, I could see with follow ups and blood work to keep the hormones balanced it is a savings drainer.. I now will just keep trying to feel better the natural way. Now I see why regular pcp's don't want to prescribe bhrt. And as for Suzanne Somers & robin McGraw promoting this stuff, well I now see the average person can not afford this money scam.
Jan 23, 2017
 BHRT Pellets$$$
by: Memery

Gosh, I'm so glad to hear that other women out there are going through the same things my husband and I are going through. As a nurse I have always told my patents to stay away from Dr. Google.

BIG MISTAKE.

I wish I done more homework prior to having BHRT pellets inserted 7 weeks ago. Just like a couple of you described in your posts not only are we dipping into our long term savings the only thing I have going for me, is my boobs are HUGE!

And just like everyone else I was desperate to try anything to be the girl my husband married....I don't think I need to elaborate😉

I just turned 44 and into my third year of Menopause d/t a total radical hysterectomy. I'm not ready to air my grievances just yet, but I sure am grateful for this blog.

Thank you.
Jan 24, 2017
 Re: Anonymous
by: Memery

Hello Anonymous, you were absolutely right when you said "money drainer" that's exactly what my husband said.

Does anyone have any information on what the side effects of stopping the pellets are? Is it difficult to stop treatment at one clinic/physician and going to a different one is?

How will I know if the pellets from a different facility and or clinic will counteract with the current pellet treatment?

To make matters worse I was diagnosed with Hashimoto's Disorder (autoimmune) after my first set of labs. I asked the doctor if she felt I needed an Endocrinologist, she said no and that they could treat me. Coincidentally all of the drugs and supplements she recommended are not covered by my insurance, but they could supply them for me; at an additional cost of course, what's another $200 monthly anyway.

I called Mothers Rheumatologist and asked his opinion, he said I'll yell at you when you get here.
Feb 22, 2017
 anyone switch to trochees from pellets
by: Jan

I have had mixed results with the pellets. I started at age 59 (just turned 61) after being in menopause for about 3 years to help alleviate many of the symptoms. I too have all my parts. While it did help with libido (sometimes too much aswas mentioned), dryness, joint stiffness, hot flashes and insomnia somewhat, I did not lose any weight as claimed but nor did I gain it. I go up and down the same 10-15 pounds every year depending on how good I eat and workout but never can get lower than 188 - I'm 5-9 - even tho I ride bikes alot. They also told me I was hypothyroid and put me on naturthroid. I experienced a lot of issues with bleeding and cramps at first so they kept increasing the progesterone - up to 200mg per day and told to take extra when having cramps or spotting. With this last round of pellets, there has been little or no issues with cramps and bleeding - finally. They did keep adjusting the estrogen when re-pelleted. I have had 3 blood tests in the 18 months I've been doing this.

HOWEVER - I also had about half my hair fall out, some acne issues - usually at start of new pellets or end of the cycle. Also black hair growth on chin, neck and upper lip. They just kept wanting to give me more pills - for hair loss, hair growth and acne or sell me laser hair removal treatment. I said no to all. The worst was after about 6 months, I started to get cramps after having an orgasm which I researched and many articles said it will often go away. After another 6 months of this, I finally asked the Dr. about it and he gave me dong quai to take before having sex. This has helped but the situation has not improved. Anyway, after being on this for about 18 months now, I decided to try the trochees because I don't like the high of the new pellets or the low when they start to fade out.

My thinking is that a little bit everyday is better than the big rush and fade out. I do not take the naturthroid anymore as my last blood test about 4 months ago said my thyroid was in the normal range again. The doc didn't tell me to not take it but I decided to stop - seemed like it wasn't helping in the weight loss arena anyways. I found a shampoo and conditioner called Vitamins that stopped the hair loss alot and has helped my hair come back. There does seem to be less beard hair but still plucking or shaving a few times a week. I am in the process of switching to another Dr. to see if they can do something about the cramps after sex but what a pain that is!!! So has anyone switched to the trochees and had better results?
Feb 26, 2017
 Pellet Nightmare - High Testosterone Level
by: Anonymous

I was using testosterone cream and progesterone sublinguals for over two years because my estrogen is really high and my testosterone and progesterone levels were low. I slowly began to feel better. My estrogen level improved but remained high but my testosterone and progesterone levels became normal. My doctor retired and a new doctor wanted to help with migraines and used testosterone pellet therapy instead of the cream. My testosterone went really high. I had an increase in facial hair but the worst part was skin issues. I had what I thought was cystic acne but I can't even say that this horrific skin spreading sores are even acne. They do produce a never ending material that is usually white but can be flesh colored. Sometimes it appears to be my own skin as it is butter soft. It can dry and became painful because it is like spears of this stuff is trying to push through the scab and I get the spears in other areas besides the sores or scans. Then I had hallucinations of the spears moving. Spironolactone was added and it helped the hair loss at the base of the head but made my skin worse. Finally as the pellet is nearing its "end", my testosterone levels are high but closer to the normal level. My skin is slowly looking better and hallucinations hardly there. What a nightmare. I had to figure this all out on my own.
Mar 06, 2017
 So upset
by: BG

I had the pellet inserted twice and already having terrible effects but I am scared because my mamo came back with '3 areas' that concerned the doctor and he has asked me to come back for more views.

Here's the part I do not understand and perhaps someone can help me.
I had my Hormones tested because my breasts have been so sore (before my mammogram) and my Doctor says my Testosterone is really high but my Estrogen is low and my Progesterone is very low. How can my testosterone be high (197) and my Estrogen be low (50) if both are in the pellet?? The clinic that inserted the pellet is saying that the pharmacy batch of progesterone was low.....but again how can the Testosterone be high and estrogen be low?

Also my big question is that it has been 2.5 months since the pellet was placed. I was told it dissolves in 3 months total so I was going to go back in 2 weeks for my follow up mamo but should I wait a bit longer so things have a chance to clear up?

So upsetting - please think twice. Any help appreciated.
Thanks all
Mar 24, 2017
 All Pros One Con
by: Stacie

Hey Everyone,

I had a hysterectomy two years ago this month. I lost 30lbs worked out 5 days a week and felt amazing. One year after having my surgery I started going downhill fast. I started gaining weight despite anything I was doing and decided it was time to go back to the Dr.

I was put on Phentermine and started taking birth control pills. In 4 months I lost all my weight and felt amazing. The Dr. took me back off Phentermine and I gained some weight back.

When I started taking the Phentermine I started developing systems that the Dr. said was Premenopause. My anxiety was so high I could not hardly drive. I definitely could not be a passenger with out freaking out. My body oder under my armpits was so disgusting I had to do a weeks worth of research to find something that would work for me. I've never in my life have had a TIRE or flabby stomach and noticed when I did gain weight it was in my stomach and arms and it was so flabby. My body began to change shape and where it stored fat. I walked around feeling like a inferno. I felt as tho someone took a lit match and threw it inside me. I was eating a high protein low fat minimal carb diet. Ive always been a very active person and i started not wanting to get out of bed. I had no energy to complete the smallest of task. I would get up take my daughter to school and come home and sleep 5 hours. I was sleeping at least 16 hours a day and I was still so tired. Lastly I felt like I was loosing my mind. I had headaches so bad I was starting to take prescription meds to help me. My memory was so bad that I went to the Dr one day (that I have been going to for years) and I couldn't remember what floor my Dr was on. I called the front desk bawling my eyes out and the Dr came and cried with me and helped me find my way. My memory was gone. I also felt as tho I had adult onset ADD. I was in a constant state of crazy. My sex life was zero and we all understand that. My mood swings where uncontrollable and I was loosing myself, my friends and my family.

It all came to a head when I was ready to jump off a bridge. i was in the Dr's office literally having a mental breakdown.

The Dr. told me I was literally the poster child for Pellets. I told her I would do anything to get my life back. This is where I'm struggling with the pellets. I was full out Menopausal by this time. Year and a half to go from totally normal to Menopausal is rough!

I went through the process of testing, testing and more testing. All my hormones where depleted. I started pellets Nov 3rd of 2016. By Christmas I was feeling amazing. I wanted to get out of bed, have sex, spend time with my family and start working on my friendships. My business started thriving and I was loving life. The Dr called that peaking. She did tell me I would break out in pimples, my skin would be really oily and I would feel somewhat like I am detoxing. She also said my boobs would get tinder and sore. My skin didn't get very oily, I did have some breakouts on my back and my boobs got so big I thought I was going to have to put shoes on them to help me walk. Ha Ha

The Dr told me to push through this is all normal. I trust my Dr with everything I have so I listened and trusted. My boobs starting coming back down to size, my memory was back, my headaches gone, my anxiety was fading, and I had even more energy.

My blood test came back in Dec as Peaking. In Oct my T level was 24 in Dec it was 187 so the energy was from that for sure. By the 3 months I went in to have my blood work done again. This is where everything started going wrong again. All my symptoms where back and I wanted to jump off that same bridge.

Now, because Pellets where new to me and the Dr office this was done all wrong. By the time my blood work came back in and I got my second set of pellets Feb 20th I was completed depleted to 2 across the board.

I feel amazing in all ways and my symptons like breast swelling, acne, oiliness has all come back but less than the first time. I think that is a great sign and each time it will be less. The Dr told me it will take a year to get it all leveled and with my minor set back of waiting to long to take my second round of pills it may take a little longer.

Where my con comes into place is the weight gain. I have gained 40 lbs in the last year. 5'6 and 135 lbs looks good on me. Now I weigh 180lbs and I look terrible.

When I look back and I remember where I was mentally I don't have a option of not taking the pellets. I have 2 pellets and Im taking every hormone but Thyroid. I do feel alive and I do feel amazing. I take my clothes off and get in the shower and I cry. The worst feeling in the world is knowing you have to give up somethings to have something that is necessary. Im pulling it together and trying to make it work but It has been one of the hardest things to go through or to watch. My Dr is more concerned on my mental state than my weight at the moment. She says it will all level out. I will continue to believe in the process.

When I really think about body image it is just that. It has made me open my eyes to what other women are going through and sometimes We can not help what our bodies are going through. I wish with everything in me the pellets would work like miracle pill but nothing works like that. Im going to continue to believe in the process and post my progress.

Thanks,
Stacie
Mar 25, 2017
 advice?
by: Anonymous

Does any one write back to these comments anymore like Wray did?
Mar 26, 2017
 Pellets
by: Anonymous

Sorry to hear you are going through this Stacie! If I were in your shoes, I would rather have the hormone cream than the pellets. Once the pellets are inserted, you are stuck with them until they dissolve. At least with the cream, you can be more flexible with the dosing.

Good luck to you!
Mar 26, 2017
 Re: Pellet Nightmare - High Testosterone Level by:anonymous
by: Coleen

Hello,
This is in response to woman that had horrible sores similar to cystic acne as oh my, do I know your story!! Wow!!! It's like you were inside of my head!!

My question to you is that did you facial hair ever completely go away?
I'm almost two years post initial pellet insert, year post everything out of system. I'm still taking 200mg spirolactone as when tried to stop, my facial hair became "manly" again! While on the med, it still grows way too fast but at least it's softer. But there's a lot of it! It's not right!!

If you've found something better PLEASE share!!!!

Thankfully that horrible acne nightmare is over for me as well but the skin issues ruined my relationship... my life that year.

I really appreciate any feedback you may have regarding this issue. Thank you! Hugs!
Apr 16, 2017
 Pellet hell
by: Anonymous

Thank God I found this site. I thought I was the only person going through this.

Everyone I know who has done this is thin and full of energy. I do not understand why this happened to us.

I had a hysterectomy at 40 and my ovaries removed at 45. I just started feeling the hot flashes this year at 46. What a nightmare.

A friend told me about this and said it was a miracle, I don't. I have gained ten pounds in two weeks, was going to stop the progesterone thinking that was causing the weight gain.

I'm so glad I read this feed today.

I'm on 200 mcgs of it. I'm going to go buy the cream tommorrow and start applying it to my breast and belly as I read in earlier comments that this may help, my boobs are killing me and my nipples feel like they are sunburned.

I eat a low carb diet and drink plenty of water.

This is so depressing. I have always been 135 lbs. I feel disgusting.

The doctor said I need to exercise. Why didn't he tell me that I was going to have to get a gym membership when I got these things injected!

My arms have gotten super flabby.

Do not do this.
Apr 28, 2017
 Pellets are Great!
by: STxPer

Not sure why there are so many people having issues with pellets. I have been on them for three years and feel great!!!!

I am not sure what propaganda Wray is trying to say but when monitored appropriately pellets are definitely the way to go as long as there are no contraindications.
May 06, 2017
 Testosterone Pellet Hair Falling Out in Clumps
by: Anonymous

I decided under a stressful situation with my husband because of a very low libido and searching the internet for solutions, I came across having a testosterone pellet implant procedure done. During my consult and subsequent lab results I was told that I had a low thyroid plus they put me on bio identical progesterone.

I felt fine for the first several weeks after the implant (50 mg) and all I was told w/labs after were they were "normal." Then I CRASHED.

My joints hurt like hell, couldn't get out of bed, shivering, migraines, hairy chin, cystic acne, like I'm 16 again, and my hair is falling out like crazy.

I had thick curly blonde hair that used to get so many compliments and now I don't know if it is going to ever come back. I am spending tons of money doing everything possible to stop the loss and keep my follicles from dying from testosterone/DHT.

Women out there need to know and do their homework before thinking about having something like this done, because I did not and I am paying the price. The worst part of it is that I am a nurse and know how to do research and am really beating up on myself right now. I cut all my hair off and quit my job before I go bald because the shedding is soo bad.

Another thing, the thyroid medication that is bio identical (Armour) is made from pig thyroid. Explain that.

My last problem is I signed a contract with them to do a year of pellets at $300 a pop and labs at $200. Do I get a lawyer? What do I do? The oath we take is TO DO NO HARM.

If this stuff is so great why do patients/clients have to be locked into a contract?
May 07, 2017
 Scammed by the pellet company
by: Anonymous

I will vouch for you if you want to take action! The same thing happened to me and I am a breast cancer survivor.

I did question my so called doctor about testosterone as I thought I should be given progesterone from all of my research. He pointed to books on his shelf and told me to trust him.

I never felt more horrible: weight gain, migraines, acne and hair loss! Get this! I got a letter a month later stating he was leaving the practice to pursue the insurance side of healthcare- perfect fit for him- corrupt!

Anyway, with most of these comments, we could form a class action lawsuit. It's just wrong to mess with women's lives- especially cancer survivors! And tell me - the person that commented above in favor of pellets- who you working for? Pellet companies? Grrr!

Wray was the only one who gave logical and sound advice!
May 21, 2017
 Estrogen-only pellet
by: Anonymous

I'm reading primarily negative comments about pellet therapy. It seems the common denominator has been ill effects from too much testosterone and testosterone build up, possibly with aromatase to estrogen as well as untrained, unskilled doctors.

The hair loss, acne, weigh gain, etc sound typical of excess testosterone though I have read similar but to less symptomatic degree about progesterone as well, which has a pathway to testosterone.

I don't subscribe to the belief that women only need progesterone as every woman's physiology is different. I firmly believe in hormonal balance however. That gauge among hormones is harder to determine and manage, especially exogenously.

Has anyone used estrogen-only pellets with or without progesterone successfully. And if so, was there a similar crash and fall then build up?
Jun 22, 2017
 How to Block Testosterone from Changing into DHT
by: Anonymous

Your hair is falling out due to excess testosterone. If you can keep it from converting to DHT, it can be lessened.

Eat pumpkin seeds and other nuts. Drink flax milk, if your estrogen is not too high. Exercise to put the testosterone into muscles. Take a multi-vitamin, especially a B Complex. Use organic hair sprays, such as Hyaluronic Acid with Biotin by Lifeflo. Use vitamin-enriched scalp shampoos and conditioners.

Your can grow your hair back. It will take time, effort, and a lot of money - but it is more than possible. Eat only organic and switch to organic hair and skin care products. Get a water filter for your shower head. My boyfriend had make pattern baldness like his father at a young age. Now, he has thick tufts of hair where his balding was. Look into herbs, like saw palmetto (but we cautious).

The cystic acne should subside when the testosterone goes down.

Be careful with spinorolactone. It has side-effects too and is a diurectic (which can dehydrate you and make matters worse).

Your skin can return to normal with estrogen, collagen, and elastin.

Exercising will release the pellet and could temporarily make things worse. However, it will get it to dissolve faster and, hopefully, build muscles.

Please, do not do the pellets. These doctors are morons. The chemistry of the body is far too complicated for such a simple answer. The Biote pellets are formulated for weight loss and actually turn all women into men over time.


I love you all and I am praying for each of you. I hope this helps.
Jun 22, 2017
 Contact your state medical board.
by: Anonymous

Please turn these doctors into your state medical board for investigation.
Sep 01, 2017
 Get a new Doctor
by: Anonymous

I have been on the pellets for 5 years now and I can tell you that your doctor has way over medicated you. You should have started with the lowest mg pellet with no cream.

I have an IUD inserted that dispenses progesterone for 5 years so I do not have to take anything. I had my hormones checked 6 weeks into the pellets being inserted (the pellet includes Estradol and testoserone and DHEA which I was low on). I have not had to increase my dosage because my hormones are perfect. He will periodically check my hormones to ensure they are still good, but so far so good.

I had osteoporosis and that is gone now because of the testosterone and I feel like I am 20 again. All I can say is I was horrified reading what your doctor had done to you. If you follow what I have done you should have been successful. Two days after my first pellet was inserted I started feeling better and I have had energy, great intimate life with my husband and feel like I did before menopause - like I am in my 30's again.

I would never stop having my pellets inserted and I am so sorry you had a bad experience, but you needed someone who knew the proper way to use them. That is so unfortunate because it is the bad doctors who give the pellets a bad reputation. I am so thankful I have a good doctor who knows what he is doing!
Nov 04, 2017
 Think twice before doing estrodial pellets
by: Anonymous

I did estradiol pellet in May 2017, doctor also had me on thyroid meds. I was sweating profusely, so in June she gave me booster pellets. Sweating did not stop.

In July I decided to stop taking the thyroid meds. Low and behold most of the sweating stopped. I was fine until Oct 2nd. I have been bleeding ever since. I have been in menopause for 7 years without a period. Now I am dealing with Fibroids and cysts on my ovaries that I have never had before.

I truly believe I was overdosed on estradiol with these darn pellets. I am hoping that the bleeding will eventually stop. I just had a uterine biopsy and am anxiously awaiting the results. I was always just fine when I did the estrodial patch or troches. Had ultrasounds that came up clear. Now with the pellet I am waiting for them to fully be gone in my body. Worst decision I have ever made. Think twice maybe 3 or 4 times before you have them inserted, they cannot be removed.

I can not take testosterone in any format, I have a reaction, so did not do T pellet. Thank God! All I can say is BEWARE, you do not know how your body will react to this. My original estradiol level was 11 with pellet it went up to over 45!
Nov 10, 2017
 Bio T pellets saved my life
by: Anonymous

The bio T pellets are wonderful. I feel like I am 25 years younger, have more energy, no stress, no anxiety much better sex life. I am sure that there has to be some that have other issues going on that cause reactions but for a healthy menopausal woman I highly recommend this quality of life enhancing product/procedure.

If it doesn't work for you then it only takes a couple of months to wear off. No need for any kind of surgery. It is the best HRT out there.

Try it!!!
Nov 10, 2017
 LOVE THE PELLET!!!
by: Anonymous

The Bio T pellet is amazing!!!! I have my life back!!!
Dec 06, 2017
 Undecided about continuing...
by: Ruth

I'm 50 years old. My symptoms were/are, low libido, anxiety, depression (on and off), never sleeping, night sweats & hot flashes that were about to send me to the funny farm!

October 13th I started the pellets. I was told the pellets would slowly release over the 3/4 months. My testosterone level was 4.3. On 11/22 after bloodwork, in one month it went from 4.3 to 300! Slow release my butt! I'm so upset, my hair is falling out in droves with every shower! My pharmacy made a mistake and did not put refills on my progesterone, so I missed 2 freakin' weeks of that and now I'm bleeding (first time in 2 years, ugh) Did NOT want that to happen!

I just spoke with my doctor and she's telling me that it takes time to level out & that if I'm more active the DHT will subside. That I/my body over-responded. She will not give me as much testosterone and is confident she can level me off. (I was given 10mg of estrogen and 150 of testosterone at my first pellet insertion).

She's telling me the hair loss is not permanent. Also told me not to believe all the negative stuff that I read, which makes me feel like she's just trying to keep me from finding out others results. (fishy, and don't make me feel stupid) I did however have improvement with sleeping, hot flashes, night sweats, but I'm so scared to lose any more hair. My instinct is telling me to not do it.....so undecided!

HELP
Dec 07, 2017
 Response to Latest Comment
by: Anonymous

It sounds like you definitely could use some hormones...just not that amount. The high doses of T require you to exercise like an Olympic athlete. Not only do the doses matter, but the ratio does too. I went off pellets and I am having more success experimenting at home with creams.
Dec 07, 2017
 Ask for the cream
by: Anonymous

Ruth,

I would ask the doctor to prescribe you cream to use instead of the pellets. I would tell the doctor you want to find your right dose before going back on the pellets (but, if I were you, I wouldn't go back on the pellets, because, as you know, once their inserted, you are stuck with the dose).

Good luck to you!
Dec 11, 2017
 re: Undecided about continuing...
by: Ruth

Thank you for the advise. I do believe after the pellets wear off, I'll look into the cream.

Since my last post, I have also experienced four days in a row, when I lay down at night (and waking up) that my heart is beating out of my chest! I've gone for walks late, stayed up late just to see if I would stop feeling like that in the morning (and because it was keeping me from sleeping) but it didn't work. I literally feel like I could run a marathon the minute my eyes open.... Who doesn't love energy, but this is overkill. I suffer from anxiety already, now I feel like it's doubled. Ridiculous! Then there's the swollen ankles, that's just lovely.
I'm done.
Dec 12, 2017
 Good doctor
by: Anonymous

Does anyone know of a doctor in the Philadelphia / nyc/ DC area that does know how to remedy these hormonal issues we women deal with? Someone who is tried and true? Please share.

I had a doc that didn’t know what he was doing and prescribed these pellets. I need someone that actually cares about our health. I hope the medical community is making strides in this area. We mid age women have endured enough!
Jan 29, 2018
 Biotech worked for me
by: Anonymous

I am in North Texas and highly recommend the pellets to all my friends! Frequent blood tests and adjustments made by doctor help every time. I lost weight initially, now need to add exercise. All symptoms improved, and hoping it will slow down or reverse my osteopenia. Lots of new studies since 2016 to show benefits. Find a better doctor. Mine takes the pellets herself, as do all of her medical partners and her 75 yr old mom!

Good luck!
Feb 08, 2018
 Dent in skin/buttocks
by: laura

I had bio t pellets and my testosterone went up to 361, breasts were agonizingly painful, hair loss very apparent.

Biggest thing I want to ask:

I have an indent where my pellets were placed, and it feels like it's eating my fat and giving me pain in buttocks above and below. Anyone else have this problem?
I can see the indent even through clothes and it has been 1 year and 2 months since pellets had been placed. (obviously didn't want them anymore!)
Feb 27, 2018
 Fibroids
by: Anonymous

I'm only seeing this now and years have gone by since you posted this but there are literally thousands of positive reviews from people using biote pellets. Day one my doctor flat out asked if I had a history of uterine fibroids before I had a complete hysterectomy. If the answer is yes I am not a candidate because anyone who ever had fibroids should never use pellets, etc. Perhaps it was your doctor's fault for not following procedure and not the product?, hence no lawsuits.
Apr 18, 2018
 Seeing a Pattern
by: Kimamarie

Hi Ladies,

Yesterday April 17, 2018 I had my 4th pellet insertion. This has been life changing for me, in a positive way. I was so depressed and had zero interest in sex, which was totally unlike me. Are there some negatives.. yes, but the positives outweigh the negatives. Most of what I have read here with women having issues with the pellets have had full hysterectomies. Maybe there is a reason for this and BioTe should look into this. I am 52, I have one ovary and my uterus (had an ablation in 2013). I also have hypothyroidism.

My doctor (also a gynecologist) also does the pellets, she monitors me very carefully (blood work, exams) and so does my endocrinologist. I did a lot of research before doing this. I had my blood work reviewed by a personal friend (gynecologist) and my hormones were at a big fat zero. It is very important to take DIM and multivitamin.

My sexual awareness is heightened, sometimes that can be frustrating. I also have to shave my legs like I did when I was younger, I have noticed extra facial hair growth. I manage this the way I did when I was younger waxing, etc. I sleep through the night, I no longer get night sweats, I am thinking clearly, the scale moves up and down, but not like it did before.

I truly believe that I have the right doctor(s). Before them, other doctors wanted me to literally eat nothing, exercise more, go on anti depressants and told me it was in my head.

I wish you Ladies all the best and I hope things get better for those of you who are suffering, and that you find the best course of direction for better health.
Apr 19, 2018
 No More
by: Sharon

I had pellets inserted March 2018. Also placed on Thyroid medication and 200mg of progesterone. Now first off no one said anything about the two medications till after the pellets were inserted. My breasts are swollen and tender, I've become bloated and gained 10 pounds and my hair is noticeably thinning.

My question is can I just never go back there again? They have called to redo labs which I was told initially was not charged at the checking point but now I must sign a paper saying I'll pay if insurance won't.

HELP I want to put a stop to this nightmare.
May 18, 2018
 Nightmare for me too
by: Anonymous

I had my first testosterone/estradiol implant in March, 2018. I’ve gained 10 pounds, now have more hair on my face, severe heart palpitations, extremely sore breasts, and the list goes on. I had follow up blood work done at one month and it revealed my testosterone was high, 221. I do not want to get the next implant, which my dr. said would be due the end of July.

My question is, can I just stop taking the progesterone after July if I don’t have the implant reinserted or do I still need to take it for a while. I just don’t want to deal with the dr. anymore with this. He assured me I’d feel great, have more energy, lose weight etc. but I’ve seen none of this.
May 19, 2018
 Tough to Answer
by: Anonymous

If you are having terrible symptoms, it is not wise to continue pellet therapy. However, coming down from such high levels can be uncomfortable and lead to other issues, but you have to come down at some point. I would seek another doctor and think about going on a lower dose HRT.

I use gels and creams. The transition, from pellets to gels, was not too hard on me, but that may not be the case for you. Every body is different! I was on pellets for two years and I was told it would get better or that I would get used to them. I never did. For me, hormones are not optional, I am in surgical menopause and absolutely need something. Once I came down, after a few months, and started the new therapy, I felt better. Recently I went low again, but my doctor has doubled my dose. My testosterone is now at a normal level of 46 and my estrogen is at 88 (which is not enough, but I just need to add more). The problem with pellets is that the doses are not individualized, the hormones are excreted based on heart rate, and, once they are in, there is really nothing you can do until they absorb and disappear. It is about managing symptoms.

My advice, and please do not take it blindly, is to stop pellet therapy and try an alternative. Know that you may continue to have symptoms for awhile, so be patient during the transition. My grandmother did the pellets twice and stopped cold turkey. She had mild side effects - increased anxiety and depression. It is so unfortunate that doctors are not being more careful prescribing such high doses!!!

I was originally on 15 mg E and 87.5 T - my pellets put me at 400 E and 200 T! Crazy high amounts! I feel much better now that they are gone (plus the trauma each injection causes to the body is not healthy) and I have found relief with restoring more natural levels. Do some research, get a second opinion (from a non-pellet doctor), and try to make an informed decision.

My thoughts are with you and any other women who are going through this!
May 19, 2018
 About the Progesterone
by: Anonymous

I was not on Progesterone due to lack of a uterus, but my grandmother was. She ceased all hormones as soon as the pellet was gone (though it may take longer than three months). Progesterone helps to balance estrogen, so this is quite tricky. My grandmother began having monthly periods (for a few months) once she ceased progesterone, due to the remaining pellet. Estrogen alone can be really dangerous.

Ideally, you could find another professional to help give you more insight. There are so many factors that go into this, it can be hard to find a clear solution. If you have a womb, you need P to balance E or you increase your risks for health issues and uterine cancer.

I am so sorry that you are going through this! After so many bad reactions, you would think doctors would stop injections.
Dec 03, 2018
 2017 post re: Undecided about continuing...
by: Ruth

I have posted twice prior to today.
UPDATE: Last post was 2017.
I weened myself off all meds & never went back.
For a month my hair continued to fall out. It did stop at some point. However, it has not grown back to the thicker hair I once had before. My doctor told me that my hair loss was not permanent......IT IS. Learned some things at americanhairloss.org about how testosterone effects your hair loss.
American Hair Loss Association, check it out.

The racing heart in the mornings have stopped also, along with all the other side effects I had.
Eventually, my levels dropped and the hot flashes came back, but are not as bad and are tolerable. Night sweats are gone along with swollen ankles.
YOU CAN just stop going, just ween yourself off the meds very slowly and don't go back. I did it. It worked for me.

Hindsight is 20/20 - so true!!

I HAD MORE HEALTH PROBLEMS/SIDE EFFECTS BEING ON THESE FLIPPIN' PELLETS THAN OFF.

I WILL NEVER, IN A MILLION YEARS, RECOMMEND GETTING THE BIO TE PELLETS TO ANYONE! Everrrrrrr

DON'T DO IT!!!!!!! YOU WILL REGRET IT!!!!!!
Dec 04, 2018
 Thanks for the update
by: Anonymous

Sorry Ruth you went through this. Thank you for the update.
Dec 27, 2018
 I am very Sorry that I chose this crap called Bio-T
by: Lucy

I am so thankful to read this post and I have had enough of all the side effects of these pellets along with progesterone which I was never asked about until too late. I will wean off them and not return to do my 4th set of the estrogen and testosterone therapy and I am angry with myself as I look back.

Gee I feel stupid because I was hopeful for energy and got acne hair loss and gained 8 pounds and a libido out of control for a 63 year old couple. Get well everyone
Dec 29, 2018
 Progesterone & Libido
by: Anonymous

I went off all Hormones for several months. My brain is fried. I had left over progesterone pills from when I was taking them before. They really did help my brain, I decided to start putting them on topically instead of taking them orally. it is a little over a month now and I can say that I am starting to notice that my libido is now coming back. I think my body is now starting to make its own testosterone the way it should be. I will continue on this path as I am feeling much better physically and mentally.
Mar 12, 2019
 No more pellets for me!
by: April

Hello!

I'm 37 and have had 2 rounds of the Biote pellets. My testosterone was super low when my blood work was done, so that was the main focus..boosting my testosterone. I loved the idea of the pellets and couldn't wait to try them out. My biggest complaints prior to getting them was my non existent sex drive and lack of energy.

The first insertion I felt no difference. I was hesitant about a second round but my Dr. assured me that it sometimes takes a couple insertions before you feel the benefits. So in December I had my 2nd pellet insertion. I know she boosted my testosterone even more on that 2nd one. The first month was horrible. I was moody and irritable constantly. That has subsided but I have not felt any different. Still no sex drive. I am disappointed and will not get another pellet.

However, I still have a fairly large lump at the insertion site. Its starting to worry me because it's been over 3 months since the insertion and I would've thought the lump would go away as it did the first time. It has not reduced in size at all. Has anyone else had this issue?
Mar 12, 2019
 Nightmare
by: Anonymous

April, I didn’t have a problem with the insertion sight of my pellets, had 2 rounds of them. The first round of pellets went ok, I saw improvements in how I felt, but the second go round was a nightmare. I had awful heart palpitations that led me to a cardiologist for tests which determined it was the testosterone causing them.

Secondlly, I had heavy bleeding, which at my age I’m not supposed to have any, and that led to a D & C. Excess facial hair and weight gain were also a problem. I’ve been off the pellets now for about 3 months and feel so much better. I will never do that again.
Sep 07, 2019
 HUGE MISTAKE!!!
by: Anonymous

I too experience horrible side effects from BioTe pellets. Had first round of testosterone pellet put in in Nov. levels went up from 8 to 108. Gained 6 lbs right away. I was told it was water weight and not to worry it would go away...WRONG!!!

They said I needed a booster and gave me more testosterone in a month later. In a March I had my second round of pellets this time estrogen and more testosterone. My testosterone jumped to 528 and I gained 16 more pounds. I’m 5’4 and have weighed a lean 120 for years. I turned into a pudgy plump 142 pounder with a huge distended belly hips and fanny! I have night sweats and hot flashes now which I never had before, acne, facial hair, no ambition, depression, and body Oder like a teenage boy in a high school locker room😖. I am extremely concerned about the weight gain...I eat very clean and workout however I have had a very difficult time gettin ANY off and am struggling not to gain more. SOMEONE PLEASE TELL ME ONCE THEY ARE OUT OF MY SYSTEM I WILL GET THIS WEIGHT OFF AND MY LEAN BODY BACK!!! I so desperately want to feel good in my own skin again as well as my clothes🙏

Sorry for typos as well doing this on device and the print is very small...can’t see print🤪
Sep 18, 2019
 Biote pellet Therapy
by: Anonymous

Hello all! I did the pellets for 4 years, I regret it. I weighed 130 pounds when I started them. I was given estrogen & testosterone biote pellets and progesterone 150mg 12 days out of the month. During the therapy I gained 20 pounds, could not lose weight no matter how hard I tried. I had thinning hair, a thin mustache, developed increased growth in two fibroids(approximately 5 cm larger) and 2 new ones grew.
High blood pressure, became estrogen dominant, and developed endometrium thickening.
During my yearly exam at my Gynecologist, I was referred to an oncologist due to the endometrial thickening.

After stopping the therapy the fibroids shrunk, I lost 21 pounds, my hair grew back and is now past my shoulders. My systolic blood pressure dropped 30 points.

I put my body through a lot and even had a cancer scare. It’s expensive and not worth it, from my personal experience.
May 29, 2020
 Biote
by: Cindy

Wish I knew this before I had Pellets inserted last year. The first round I immediately had a period for over a month and ended up having a D&C to clean the polyps out.
All good after that so I thought Id try again, Stupid move on my part. I was put on 400mg of progesterone to counter the period symptoms.
I started bleeding again went for another sonogram I have a fibroid Dr. said it would go away is was very small. So Dr decided to put me on a compounded Progesterone, pharmacy doesn't have a 425mg version so they put me on Pharmacy 200mg and compounded 225mg WORSE Idea ever, I started having heart palpitations and tightness in my chest all along Ive been short of breath and kept being told you have COPD (prev smoker).

I went to my Primary she was alarmed my testosterone level was off the charts and has scheduled me for a CT Scan of my abdomen and my Chest X-ray shows my lungs are clear not COPD. Also, I have gained a ton of weight and previously I was at the gym 2-3 hours a day and all that has been lost, I'm afraid to go back due to the heart issues this has caused, I stopped taking the compounded formula and felt a little better within a few days and went to just 200mg and seems Much better already, can't wait for the next 3 mos to be over so I can stop taking this, I don't need the stress its added to my life.
Oct 31, 2020
 BioTe Nightmare - horrid!
by: Anonymous

Hello,

I am so glad I found this site!

Age: 55 and had hysterectomy 2012. It is truly a nightmare when I had the pellets implanted last February 2020 and May 2020. Gained 15 pounds, rapidly severe hair loss especially top and back of my head. The back of my head is almost completely BALD!!!! Skyrocket of testosterone level, and severe hives/rash all over my body. I couldn't go a day without taking large dosage of antihistamine.

I saw several doctors and specialists. They all couldn't figure out what is wrong with me until I met a wonderful Dermatologist who saved my life. She said it's all related to BioTe and she has seen women who had similar experiences as I had. As of yesterday (10/30/20), she prescribed me to take Spironolactone 23mg 3 tablets daily. In addition, started taking Nutrafol, biotin, and use Rogaine mouse. I am hoping and praying that my hair will grow back!!!! BioTe has really destroyed my self-esteem, health, financially and emotional distress.

I truly wish I had done the research before taking the BioTe. Does anyone know who I can contact to file lawsuit?

Thanks,
Feb 08, 2021
 Cellulitis from pellets
by: Anonymous

I almost died and was in hospital for 2 weeks from cellulitis from pellet insertion. I had 2 surgeries and never so sick in my life. Half the town has seen my ass now with 2 open wounds that need a nurse to change every day.
Jun 22, 2021
 Mad and Angry
by: Anonymous

Run, don't walk from Biote as this will cause a serious weight gain with no benefit. I have pelleted twice and have gained 15 pounds and no amount of dieting will take it off. Once I am stable, I am planning on initiating a law suit against the Biote dispensers....
Jun 23, 2021
 Biote
by: Anonymous

Good luck with your lawsuit. Biote must make the doctors a lot of money as they really push this. Best wishes!
Aug 23, 2021
 Another good result
by: Anonymous

I’ve been on the pellets for a year and a half and they have completely changed my life for the better. I wish I’d done it sooner. I am 65 years old and suffered severe hot flashes for 9 years ever since menopause. Also no interest in sex, painful intercourse, dry skin and very poor sleep. Panic attacks and anxiety all the time with the hot flashes.

The first 3 days of the first insertion I thought I’d made a big mistake. Painful cramps (I still have a uterus) and breasts but that rapidly went away and soon I started feeling fantastic. More energy, much better sex life, and NO MORE HOT FLASHES. Gone too is the anxiety and panic attacks. My mood has leveled out, I’m calmer and happier and sleeping through the night.

I feel the key is to get the dose right. You need an experienced doctor and you MUST take DIM, also ADK to avoid breast tenderness and the worst of the masculinization which for me is just slight facial hair which I just bleach and one or two pimples.

You must take the right amount of progesterone to prevent return of periods and the pellets themselves come in different doses, it is very important to find an experienced practitioner.

The pellets have given me back my life. I was almost suicidal with the poor quality of life, hot flashes, anxiety, no interest in my husband, relationship going downhill, bad mood all the time. My doctor monitors my blood work. Testosterone should never be as high as some I’ve read here, they gave you too big a pellet. You need regular gynecology checkups. For me the benefits outweigh the risks. I know there are risks to every therapy so everyone needs to weigh them depending on your unique situation.
Aug 24, 2021
 Question for Another Good Response
by: Shon

I had the first does 4/13/21 and like you thought i'd made a mistake because of the same things. I've loved everything about the pellets. I had my 2nd dose 8/16/21. No issues, however what I have noticed is that I have not been able to lose any weight. I've been doing everthing I know to lose weight and when I went back for my second dose I'd gained weight. Any issues like that for you?
Dec 13, 2021
 Please don’t use Pellets
by: Anonymous

I absolutely regret using BioTe. I have gained 20 pounds since my initial insertion, I also have whiskers that have to be plucked several times a week. Initially I felt great after I started using the pellets and I couldn’t believe what they did for my libido. Now, after using them for 3 years, my testosterone levels are off the charts, triple what normal levels should be. I’ve had trouble controlling my cholesterol and triglycerides, and I can’t lose weight. I have begged my OB to reduce the testosterone every time I’ve gone in for pellets in the last year. Finally I’ve had enough and my family practice doc with the help of an endocrinologist are hopefully going to help me transition off smoothly. Wish I’d never gone down this path.
Apr 16, 2022
 Pellet Backlash?
by: Anonymous

I have been on pellets for 2 years and been pretty satisfied with the difference it has made with anxiety…most recently, I tested high for testosterone and they adjusted my dose in my pellet a few weeks ago. I am FREAKING out now!! I started losing hair in clumps and getting more facial hair and painful acne…One question: When I stop the pellets (which I plan to do!!) will these symptoms resolve? Thanks for any tips!
Apr 18, 2022
 Pellet Backlash
by: Joy

If you read this thread carefully it clearly states that we do not believe in pellets and why. Please read the links and references provided by Wray.

Your hair will grow back, but it will take time.
Jun 24, 2022
 i think i have made a pellet mistake.
by: Dawn

I am 58 and having a host of medical issues for the first time in my life. So I went all out in 3 different directions of doctors to try and get to the bottom of it. 1. to a well known hormone dr in chattanooga tn and was told all my levels were pretty much 0, I started a compounded hrt cream estrogen/ testosterone/ progesterone about 3 months ago. It did help hot flashes/ heating up, some on mood, a little on energy but thats about it, he put pellets in me about 2 weeks ago along with oral progesterone 200mg
2. been suffering from severe head and neck pain that has gotten much worse and having dizzy spells to the point of feeling as if i will pass out. very scary while driving. this has led me to dr number 2 a neuro pain dr that is gonna try neck injections in july and maybe an ab my head is debilitating so wonder if hormone related.
3. been monitoring my thyroid for many years because of nodules but it to is worse, nodules grew and has changed consistency to suspicious in last month and looks and feels more swollen. could all this above be related to HRT? i have friends that love it but my body reacts to everything i try as if hyper sensitive. I too am at my ropes end!!! and yes cancer runs in my family, all parents and grandparents are now gone.
Jun 27, 2022
 I think I made a Pellet mistake
by: Joy

Hi Dawn

Sadly, I think that you have made a mistake.  Hormones are confusing and if not dealt with correctly can cause major issues and confuse one even further.  Often advice by our medical professionals is even more confusing and incorrect!  I don't think that I need to explain about estrogen and testosterone as it has been explained in detail by myself and Wray a few times on this thread.  The same applies to the Pellets, they should be removed from the market as far as I  am concerned.   It's no wonder you are experiencing adverse symptoms!

Please do not ignore your thyroid. Have it checked out. A deficiency in iodine, selenium, tyrosine and vitamin D3 is often the cause. It could be that you need medication for this.  I always advise whether one has thyroid issues or not to take iodine etc as a preventative measure.  I have been doing this for years.  This excellent video by Dr David Brownstein explains this in detail.  The video does break up a little in parts, but stick with it.   If concerned, discuss with your doctor who hopefully knows how important it is. There are some drugs that may interfere with iodine, so best to check that out. All drug based HRT's have a potential to cause harm as explained further down.  The fact that Cancer runs in the family freaks me out. Your doctor should have known better.  

Please consider using a good organic progesterone cream such as Natpro which is a 3% cream and was formulated over 30 years again.  Please take note about what has been said regarding the benefits of Vitamin D3 and the co-factors.  It is essential for the thyroid and our health in general.

All the best.
Jun 28, 2022
 one more question
by: Anonymous

Thank you so much for your speedy reply. I need your advise one more time. So the pellets were put in me on june 14, 2022 and the 200 mg progesterone capsules at bedtime to keep the pellets in check. I could not figure out what was wrong with me but when i was going to bed at night i have been feeling like i am having a heart attack hurting in my shoulders, neck and chest, palpatations and even breathing irregular. well we went on rv trip this weekend and i forgot the progesterone pills at home and noticed i quit having the issue so now I am stuck with these pellets in my hip and to scared to start the pills back until i can get the pellets out of my system but i know that i must have progesterone to counter the pellets until out of my system. should i call and ask for a smaller mg amount capsule or rush order in the nat pro cream to take the place of the capsule until i can get these pellets out of my system? if yes on nat pro, how much to use?
Jun 29, 2022
 One more question
by: Joy

Hi Anonymous

I am sure by now you have read that any form of oral progesterone is not the best Delivery Method as around 96% gets destroyed by the gut and liver see here. So you will be getting very little of the 200mg which in turn will aggravate your estrogen receptors. That should answer your question. In short, a major war is going on inside your body!

You also know my view on the pellets and the view of many others. You only have to read this thread paying attention to Wray's comments.

Heart palpitations can be very scary, often women feel the need to be rushed to emergency. Estrogen causes prolongation of the QT interval, which results in palpitations, arrhythmia and Torsades de Pointes. Whereas progesterone shortens the QT interval see here. It's excess estrogen causing it, in your case, the pellets. The correct use of progesterone ONLY will help you greatly. Please read the estrogen dominance and how to use progesterone pages carefully, links already on this thread. Usually between 100-200mg progesterone cream is needed, more if symptoms are severe, Vitamin D3 is vital as a deficiency reduces the benefits of progesterone.

My advice, have the pellets removed and continue with progesterone cream only and follow the protocol needed.
Jun 29, 2022
 SALIVA TEST NEEDED
by: Anonymous

I have spent hours reading back through to try and find a link to reputable saliva test to check my hormones. I honestly do not think my dr was truthful as he said i was 0 on all and thats why he aggressively recommended pellets and progesterone capsules. I just ordered the natpro to go all natural but would love to get a good saliva test done.
Jun 30, 2022
 Saliva Tests Needed
by: Joy

This annoys me intensely. Ask to see your test results, it's your right and your doctor had no place in being aggressive at all. Perhaps look for another doctor.

ZRT Labs and Birmingham Hospital offer tests if you wish to have them redone. Also if you do get your results from your doctor, compare them to those on the Hormone Testing page which are the correct results.

All the best.
Jul 01, 2022
 advice taken
by: Anonymous

so I was able to get into patient portal and chart my last 4 sets of hormone bloodwork.I wish there was a way i could share it here. unfortunately my pellets are in till they wear off as they say they push them in pretty deep and by the time I can get back in 6 weeks from now it will be 2 months in. I stopped the nightly 200 mg of progesterone and am using some wild yam root progesterone until nat pro comes in. I have to admit that i am absolutely miserable today. my whole body feels hot, my eyes and face is so hot and red. I feel like i am on fire! and my headaches and mood are horrid
Jul 05, 2022
 Advice taken
by: Joy

Good luck in seeing the 2 months through. Don't throw the oral progesterone away, it may come in useful if used at night boosted with Natpro. If it helps with sleep then use it but remember that 96% gets destroyed by the gut and liver.

I really am not in favour of wild yam root, but again some may benefit. Whether one changes the amount used or changes progesterone cream, it will disrupt the body and hormones. This stands to reason as the body must adjust to the changes.

A tip: When your Natpro arrives, use about 250mg at night and rub it all over your body and at the back of your neck. This will help to bring your progesterone level up quicker and help with Headaches. Then revert to your chosen amount morning and again at night. Never use it less than twice a day.
Jul 06, 2022
 pellet update quandry
by: Anonymous

talk about in total state of not knowing what to do now. while i am waiting on the natpro to arrive i did start back on the nightly 200 mg progesterone since i had pellets put in about 4 weeks ago and my symptoms were back with vengeance. after going back on the progesterone pill my horrible symptoms stopped and i feel great again other than headaches. I even have a libido!!. but I do not want to increase my cancer chances. my plan is to stop the pills once natpro arrives and let pellets wear off then i will be strictly on natpro but I do not want those horrid symptoms back as I do not even care about life with the pre hrt symptoms.
Jul 09, 2022
 Pellet update quandary
by: Joy

I think this thread has given you enough info on what to do. Progesterone therapy is not easy, I wish it was. It will disrupt things in the beginning but this will soon settle down. It all depends on how much excess estrogen you have.

I suggest that you continue with oral progesterone and when Natpro arrives use that as well. Experiment with the two, see what works for you, just bear in mind that oral progesterone only delivers around 4%. Please pay attention to the posts by Wray on Estrogen Dominance, How to use Progesterone Cream and anything else that you think may be of interest to you.

Take care.
Aug 11, 2022
 RUINED my life
by: Dani

My "doctor" gave me the pellets and touted them as a miracle treatment. I had no reason not to trust her. Before I got them the first time, I asked her if the testosterone would cause hair loss. She insisted that my hair would actually improve. Well, she lied.

I am now almost completely bald. I had already lost a good amount of hair prior to the pellets, so I didn't really want to lose any more. When I told her that it was falling out at an alarming rate, she just said it was "shedding." This is BS.

I presented her with actual published, peer reviewed science proving that the pellets are not safe, are not effective, and do in fact cause hair loss. She doubled down on her unsubstantiated claims and earned herself a complaint to the medical board against her license.

Gary Donovitz, the monster behind all of our nightmares, had a complaint against his license for something almost identical. I do not think that is a coincidence.

My life is ruined. I barely go out because I'm too concerned about my hair. Hair fibers to cover up the bald spots aren't even effective anymore since there is hardly any hair at all. I am almost completely bald, and she is 100% to blame.
Aug 12, 2022
 RUINED my life
by: Joy

Hi Dani

I am so terribly sorry that you have had to experience this. The pellets have been discussed so many times on this website so there would be no need for me to discuss it further except to say that they should be taken off the market as well as the Mirena!

Please consider taking the nutrients mentioned on the Hair Loss page and make sure that your Vitamin D3 is optimal.

Love and light to you.
Sep 17, 2022
 Used in moderation pellets can help
by: Kady

First, I don't agree with any doctor giving any woman a gigantic dose of testosterone and I'm not sure why this is a thing. I had servere menopause symptoms that were not abated by creams patches or pills. Estrogen pellets are the only thing that work for me. I get a low dose E pellet that only brings my E level up to around 100 at peak. I use compounded testosterone cream that keeps my level in a normal range. I use progesterone suppositories since the creams did not raise my level and the pills made me feel drunk. I am fortunate enough to go to a practice where they are willing to work with me and experiment. I don't think the problem is with the pellets, it's with the doctors and their scary practice of using ultra high doses. Vilify the doctors, but not the medication. Under the right circumstances and with the right guidance pellets should have a place in HRT. I would basically be suicidal whiteout them.
Nov 01, 2022
 It's Good Until It Isn't
by: Anonymous

So I went through menopause end of my 40's early 50's with WICKED hot flashes, deflated boobs, inability to sleep (I have several high stress jobs, one of which I'm retiring from this month), zero libido, thinning hair.

In face I actually participated in a clinical study for the libido issue which was a big nothingburger.

So when I heard there was a practioner fairly nearby with bioidentical hormones, I jumped at the chance even though it was pricey. I was 57-58 at the time.

At first it was GREAT. I got my breasts back, my hair looked better, my libido came roaring back and most importantly, no more hot flashes and I could sleep soundly! The biggest side effect was, believe it or not, chapped lips, which my practitioner said was unrelated. But it came on suddenly.

But then I started getting spotting and full blown unpredictable periods! I reported this to the practitioner and she basically downplayed it. She reduced my pellet dosage of estrogen twice and said nothing about the progesterone, which I read is probably unbalanced and giving me periods again. I got a bit of acne but that was probably from the testosterone.

Fast forward to age 61 and I was diagnosed with breast cancer, stage 1 this past end of May. I am grateful that it was caught in time because I have always been faithful with my mammograms. The lump was too small to detect manually.

I had officially my last pellet in March of 2022. I had a lumpectomy and radiation treatment then was prescribed hormone reducing medication since it was discovered that the cancer was hormonally driven.

I would say that unless the Biote system is strictly monitored and customized to you, don't do it.
Nov 02, 2022
 It's good, until it isn't
by: Joy

I am so sorry to read your story but delighted that you are no longer using the dreadful pellets. I really wish that doctors were more informed about estrogen. If you haven't done so, please read Wray's comment at the beginning of this thread.

Best wishes and look after yourself.
Nov 12, 2022
 Pellet therapy for 1 year, now need hysterectomy!
by: Suzette

Menopausal for 26 years. At age 69 had testosterone/estrogen pellets&oral micronized progesterone (HRT) two times, ea 4 months apart. Testosterone and estrogen blood tests were way too high. Stopped pellets/progesterone therapy after 2nd insertions. Started bleeding. Ultrasound showed hyperplasia of uterus at 13cm. After biopsy and no atypical cells, had D&C due to continued bleeding. After 5 mo, heavy bleeding again, ultrasound showed thickening again of 13cm. Biopsy showed no atypical cells. Throughout this time my estrogen tests came back high. Now doc wants to do hysterectomy! Never was progesterone suggested to oppose the high estrogen still showing up on bloodwork. My body did not process the estrogens for some reason. Want answers, want more testing, 2nd opinion as I don't want hysterectomy. Would never recommend pellets.
Nov 13, 2022
 Pellet therapy for 1 year, now need hysterectomy!
by: Joy

Hi Suzette

You have probably read this thread and the reasons why we do not agree with the pellets.

The correct use of a good natural progesterone cream such as Natpro would have cleared you bleeding problems. Please do a search on the website for Heavy Bleeding Protocol and what is required.

So sad that the medical professionals do not recognise the benefits of progesterone but I guess we all know why! I suggest that you give progesterone a try before a hysterectomy which, unless something sinister is going on, is not necessary. If you decide to try it please read the following pages on this website - How to use Progesterone Cream, Estrogen Dominance and Vitamin D3.
Dec 02, 2022
 Help! Pellet nightmare
by: Anonymous

I initially got biote testosterone and estrogen in August. I felt great mentally for a few weeks but after about 2.5 months i started feeling incredibly depressed. I wasn't feeling like this before the pellets, but because I initially felt good, I thought maybe they were wearing off. I got a second set of testosterone only 2 weeks ago, and the depression is so severe. I asked the doctor and she said she's never heard of this and madame feel crazy. I begged her to remove them but she said it can't be done. I don't understand why this could be so hard, I can feel a bump under my skin.

This depression is so severe, I just know it's somehow from the testosterone. My theory is that initially I felt good, but as it absorbed more it's actually too high for me, even though it's "in range" after pelletier. I'm going to have a consult with a surgeon, if he says no I don't know what I'll do.

I've been taking saw palmetto as I read it can decrease testosterone. I am so mad at myself!
Dec 03, 2022
 Help? Pellet Nightmare.
by: Joy

Hi there.

Please do not be mad at yourself. We all get sucked into things thinking that certain things are best for us. The main thing is that you have identified what the problem is.

There is no need for me to go into detail about how the pellets can mess things up, it's been posted many times on this thread. Please make sure to read all the links supporting this. Yes, there are some who feel it's benefits, but not many.

Unfortunately you are stuck with the pellet for 3-4 months, it can't be removed. You can of course go the progesterone route now if you want. Help your body to adjust to progesterone and balance things. You may need to use a high amount to counteract testosterone and estrogen in the pellet.

Please read the Anxiety page and consider taking some of the calming nutrients mentioned at the same time as using progesterone. If you do decide to go the progesterone route, please consider using Natpro which is an organic cream, formulated over 30 years ago. That will be up to you to decide though. There are many brands on the market, just make sure that any progesterone cream used, should equate to that of Natpro. Make sure that your Vitamin D3 level is optimal as a deficiency reduces the benefits of progesterone and it will also help lift your depression.

By the way, your doctor is a little uninformed. Of course the pellets cause depression, in fact a lot suffer from this due to estrogen dominance and high testosterone.

Good luck.
Jul 25, 2023
 Great experience
by: Anonymous

This is all a surprise to me!! I started taking pellets and have never felt better in my life!!!
Jul 26, 2023
 Great experience
by: Alyce

You may be even more surprised in a few months time when it all falls down. Worst experience of my life.

Good luck.

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