www.pharmaprodia.com - PHARMAPRODIA
  • 623-404-1000
  • Contact Us
  • Refill a prescription
  • Fax: 623-256-6491
  • M-F 0800-0500 PM Sat/Sun By appointment only

Autoimmune Diseases: Healing with Bioidentical Hormones - An Overview

Autoimmune Diseases: Healing with Bioidentical Hormones - An Overview

Dr Richard Nkwenti; R.Ph; Ph.D

Autoimmune diseases are on the rise, with more than 80 distinct types being identified. It's a troublesome set of conditions where one's own body mistakenly attacks its healthy cells and organs due to an overactive immune system. Fortunately, there have been traditional treatments available for autoimmune issues, but recently, natural bioidentical hormones came out as potential alternatives too! This blog is dedicated to giving you an overview of what autoimmune diseases entail, how natural bioidentical hormones play a role in treating them, and looking into ongoing research around this area that might provide better solutions. We hope after reading it you'll be able to understand if this type of treatment could help those suffering from such difficult health issues, so stay tuned!neuron-cell.jpeg

 

Unraveling the mystery of Autoimmune Conditions

Many people and even medical professionals feel confused about autoimmune conditions. Those who suffer from these diseases are confronted with life-altering experiences that have no known cause or remedy. Autoimmune disease can affect the skin, organs, joints, muscles, or any part of your body! Examples include multiple sclerosis (MS), lupus, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), celiac disease, and Type 1 diabetes. Unfortunately, we don't yet know what causes them, but scientists believe it may be a combination of genetics plus factors such as our diet and lifestyle choices that come into play too. How much do they influence us?

Treatment of autoimmune conditions usually involves taking medications that try to reduce the immune system's reaction, which leads to inflammation in affected areas. Although this could bring some relief, there are other options offering better results with fewer side effects: natural bioidentical hormone therapy (NBHT). NBHT uses naturally occurring identical hormones like progesterone and testosterone, whose molecules completely match those made by your own body. Have you ever thought about trying it? It may be worth investigating!

Natural biohormone therapy (NBHT) is a form of treatment that can help those suffering from autoimmune conditions. It works by replacing or supplementing deficient hormones so they are able to function at optimal levels without causing any negative side effects like traditional medications may if taken long-term. Furthermore, NBHT won't disrupt your body's natural ability to produce its own hormones, so you're not dependent on taking external medication for years after the treatment has finished. This is an obvious benefit compared to other treatments! So why do something that could have lasting implications down the road when there’s another option available? We should all be aware of our options before making decisions about how we care for ourselves, and anyone who suffers from autoimmunity would do well to consider Natural biohormone therapy first; it just might give them some control over their lives again!

On top of providing a hormone substitute or supplement, NBHT also helps regulate the responses associated with autoimmune conditions by decreasing inflammation in impacted areas, which accelerates the healing process. This can potentially decrease recurrent autoimmunity-related ailments over time as well! Identifying an experienced doctor educated on NBHT will be vital; they'll customize your treatment plan depending on what you need, something that regular treatments aren't designed to do, usually leading to unsatisfactory results overall. How can someone create and manage their own personalized health care?

 

Understanding the role of Natural Hormones

Autoimmune diseases happen when the body's own immune system mistakenly starts attacking healthy tissue. The cause of these conditions is still unknown and requires further research. Treatment plans depend on what kind of autoimmune issue you have and how bad it is, but they usually involve drugs to control inflammation and weaken your immunity. Using natural bioidentical hormones for treatment could also be very beneficial, as they can help regulate the immune response or decrease swelling. What's more, taking such hormones could offer an alternative approach besides medications, which might not work in certain cases.

Have you ever wondered what controls many of the essential functions in our body? Well, the answer is hormones! Hormones are natural chemicals that act as messengers and help monitor processes like metabolism, growth, reproduction, stress levels, and even moods. They are produced by glands located around us, such as the pituitary gland or thyroid gland. Natural bioidentical hormones have recently become a popular choice when it comes to hormone supplements; they're made from plant extracts, which makes them identical to those naturally produced by our bodies.

Unlike synthetic hormones, natural bioidentical ones have a molecular structure that is an exact match for our bodies. This makes it much easier for the body to recognize and absorb them with fewer side effects than synthetically produced hormones. Even though research into their role in treating autoimmune conditions is still ongoing, there are signs they may be able to help restore balance within affected systems or organs, as well as support overall health through anti-inflammatory action. It's worth noting that this could bring about positive changes when managing these types of illnesses too.

An example of natural bioidentical hormones playing a role in treating autoimmune disorders is progesterone supplements, which are effective at reducing inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis. Similarly, DHEA supplements have had positive results for those experiencing lupus symptoms like fatigue or joint pain relief. There's also evidence suggesting that testosterone supplementation could be beneficial for patients with Graves' Disease who exhibit muscle weakness due to low testosterone caused by overactive thyroid glands. Despite the need for more research into this topic, it appears obvious that these compounds offer potential therapeutic benefits beyond symptom relief, something that should not go unnoticed when evaluating treatment options for chronic conditions such as these.

 

The link between Autoimmune Diseases and Bioidentical Hormones

Autoimmune Diseases are something that no one wants to deal with. It's a medical condition where your immune system mistakenly attacks some of the body’s very own cells, causing all sorts of issues like fatigue, joint pain, and even organ damage. Pretty much any part of your body is vulnerable—skin problems as well as joints and muscles can be affected by autoimmune diseases; it could go so far as to mess about in the brain or other organs too! When you're looking for treatment options for an autoimmune disease, natural bioidentical hormones are definitely worth considering if your doctor will let you take them. But why? Is this kind of hormone therapy really effective in treating underlying causes?

Bioidentical hormones are an amazing discovery; they come from plants or animals but share similar molecular structures with the ones naturally found in human bodies. That's why many consider them "natural". Taking this hormone supplement, when done correctly and under medical supervision, helps regulate our immune system so it doesn't go overboard and attack itself! Who knew natural processes could be replicated like that? When it comes to treating autoimmune diseases specifically with bioidentical hormones, research has shown that they may be effective in reducing inflammation caused by conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or psoriasis. Moreover, there is proof showing these types of treatments could even be useful for those affected by chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and fibromyalgia (FM). Many people who suffer from lupus or multiple sclerosis (MS) have found success using bioidentical hormone therapy. It makes you wonder if this type of treatment can bring relief to other sufferers.

In these peculiar cases, scientists believe that providing balanced amounts of female sex hormones such as progesterone or estrogen could help alleviate certain symptoms caused by those conditions. To give an example here, it is known that progesterone has anti-inflammatory properties that might be able to diminish aches related to some autoimmune disorders like lupus or MS, whereas the hormone called estrogen may also assist in regulating mood alterations connected to menopause issues, such as hot flashes frequently seen among women with MS due to their diminishing levels during this particular life period. What's more interesting is how very small changes can have profound outcomes on overall functioning and quality of life—a phenomenon that still manages to amaze health experts all around!

It's essential for people suffering from autoimmune disorders to think about all the treatment options they have before making any decisions regarding their care plans. Natural bioidentical hormone therapies can be especially beneficial since there is some proof suggesting that they could provide relief for various conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, CFS, FM, lupus, and MS. However, no matter what medication or supplement you take, whether prescribed by your doctor or purchased over-the-counter, make sure to consult with your physician first so everything you do will be safe and effective! Taking this precautionary step guarantees peace of mind knowing that you're on track towards achieving better health outcomes.

 

How do Bioidentical Hormones work in healing autoimmune conditions?

Bioidentical hormones have the same molecular structure as those created by our body. In recent years, they have emerged as a natural alternative to conventional medical treatments for autoimmune conditions. The goal of bioidentical hormone therapy is to restore balance and diminish inflammation in the immune system.

When we talk about autoimmune diseases like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, it's important to remember that these are situations where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy organs or tissues instead of fighting off infection or disease, which can have incredibly damaging long-term effects if left untreated.

Bioidentical hormone therapy is an effective way to reduce inflammation and provide relief from symptoms associated with autoimmune diseases. It works by using plant-based hormones that are molecularly identical to the ones naturally produced in our bodies, like progesterone or testosterone, which play a role in regulating inflammation and cell growth during healing processes. What's more, bioidenticals don't contain any synthetic chemicals, so they tend to be safer than other conventional treatments such as steroids or chemotherapy drugs, meaning fewer side effects over extended periods of time without medical supervision! All this makes bioidentical hormone therapy an excellent option for those looking for healthy solutions when managing their autoimmune conditions.

 

Autoimmune Treatments: A Closer Look at Conventional Therapies

Are you familiar with autoimmune diseases? They are a group of conditions where the body's own immune system goes to battle against its tissues, leading to damage. Examples include rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, Crohn’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and type 1 diabetes.hat causes them? It's hard to say for sure; some suspect that genetics play a role in addition to environmental factors like certain infections or chemicals, plus hormonal imbalance could be part of it too.

The usual approach for autoimmune diseases is to decrease inflammation with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen or aspirin. Immunosuppressants are also used to reduce the activity of your immune system, while corticosteroids can help bring down any swelling. Biologic agents target particular molecules associated with autoimmunity too. While such treatments may work and lessen symptoms in some people suffering from autoimmune issues, they can have side effects that come along with them—the chances of infection rise because these medicines suppress one's immunity afterwards as well!

Does natural bioidentical hormone therapy offer a viable alternative to other treatments for autoimmune conditions? Studies suggest that it might. Natural hormones, derived from plants, have the same chemical makeup as those found in human bodies, unlike synthetic alternatives, which can cause undesirable side effects due to molecular structures different from our own. These studies indicate that natural hormone treatment could help manage symptoms associated with rheumatoid arthritis and lupus erythematosus when conventional therapies are not successful or cannot be tolerated by patients because of adverse reactions or intolerance.

It should be noted, however, that engaging in bioidentical hormone therapy requires supervision from an experienced healthcare provider who will tailor the regimen specifically for each patient based on their health history and current condition, along with desired outcomes of care.

 

Benefits of Using Natural Hormones for Autoimmune Conditions

Autoimmune diseases are an immense health issue that affects millions worldwide. They happen when the immune system mistakenly assaults healthy tissue, producing inflammation and harm to its own cells. Common autoimmune disorders consist of rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes, lupus, psoriasis, multiple sclerosis, and Hashimoto's thyroiditis. he underlying driver for these ailments isn't completely understood yet, but genetics and environmental factors might contribute too. Conventional therapies dealing with autoimmunity generally involve drugs that minimize swelling or repress the body’s defense mechanisms in addition to lifestyle adjustments—anything from diet alterations up to exercising more often!

It's well recognized that treatments don't always help solve imbalances in hormones, which can be an issue with the immune system. That said, many have found natural bioidentical hormone therapy to be beneficial as it helps regulate those hormones and restore balance throughout your body; this is especially helpful when trying to treat autoimmune conditions. But what are hormones? Well, they're chemicals produced by glands all over the body; think of them like messengers between cells, helping them perform their respective functions correctly, such as digestion or reproduction!

When it comes to hormone levels, stress or other factors can cause an imbalance, which often leads to symptoms such as fatigue, mood swings, weight gain or loss, and difficulty concentrating. Natural bioidentical hormones are just like the ones our body produces, so they get absorbed into cells more easily without overstimulating them, something synthetic hormones may do, resulting in side effects such as headaches or nausea, for example. But how much of a difference does this make? What is the impact on overall wellbeing if we balance out these hormones naturally rather than synthetically?

Using natural bioidentical hormones has been shown to have loads of advantages for people who suffer from autoimmunity, such as reducing inflammation and creating a balance between sex steroids like testosterone and estrogen which help with immune response; increasing levels of serotonin in order to improve mood; regulating cortisol production, lessening stress; enhancing sleep quality; restoring energy levels back up again ; controlling blood sugar amounts more effectively ; stimulating thyroid function if hypothyroidism is the cause behind your autoimmune issue ; balancing out adrenal gland activity when there's an Adrenal Fatigue connection causing troubles related to autoimmunity disorder modulating histamine responses should MCAS (Mast Cell Activation Syndrome) be linked with it too ; improving gut health when leaky guts syndrome LGS could be playing its part. There, we can clearly see how all these benefits make natural bioidentical hormone therapy a formidably attractive solution for those struggling because of their autoimmune problem yet wishing not to compromise their wellbeing at the same time.

 

Case studies showcasing the effectiveness of Bioidentical hormone treatment

Bioidentical hormones are becoming increasingly popular as a form of hormone replacement therapy in the treatment of autoimmune diseases. These hormones differ from synthetic or animal-derived varieties as they are made up of compounds derived from plants that have similar structures to those found naturally within our bodies, meaning absorption and utilization can be more successful. Studies have revealed the effectiveness this type of hormone therapy has on a number of conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, psoriasis, and inflammatory bowel disease, among others. This makes bioidentical hormones an often-recommended option for treating autoimmune ailments effectively.

One of the massive benefits of bioidentical hormone therapy is its capacity to tackle particular symptoms linked to an autoimmune disorder. Say, if someone has rheumatoid arthritis, they could be given a combo of progesterone and estrogen, which can lessen swelling as well as regulate pain levels. Likewise, for lupus patients who endure hair loss and joint agony due to inflammation, bioidentical hormones may provide considerable relief from both of these difficulties when taken along with other medications approved by their physician. How awesome would that be? To have such help in alleviating all those chronic pains!

Research has found that the use of bioidentical hormone therapies can be effective in treating certain autoimmune diseases. A study conducted by experts at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine investigated how SLE patients responded to treatment with a combination of progesterone and estrogen orally twice daily for nine months, supplemented by other usual treatments like NSAIDs or Plaquenil hydroxychloroquine sulfate. Have these medical interventions helped individuals who suffer from autoimmunity? The results suggest they have!

The results showed that 92% of people saw improvements in SLE-related symptoms, and 81% had complete resolution or improvement in their overall condition scores after nine months. And this was without any additional medications prescribed aside from those given during the study period, indicating that bioidentical hormone therapy is effective for treating SLE when combined with other treatments prescribed.

And there are many case studies that back this up too: Crohn's disease patients have seen reduced inflammation due to an overactive immune response; Hashimoto's thyroiditis sufferers can see improved hypothyroidism; multiple sclerosis cases where T cell activity has been regulated successfully; Graves' Disease being managed through a reduction in hyperthyroidism caused by an overactive immunity system; even type 1 diabetes, thought to be triggered by autoimmunity attacking insulin-producing cells within the pancreas—all these conditions may benefit from natural bioident hormones administered accurately under medical supervision alongside necessary therapies.

 

Potential side effects or risks associated with Bioidentical Hormone therapy

Bioidentical hormone therapy is a type of alternative medicine that uses hormones that are identical to those naturally produced by the human body. In recent times, it's become more and more popular as an option instead of traditional hormone replacement treatment for many different conditions, among them autoimmune diseases. Though in some situations bioidentical hormones can bring advantages, don't forget that, just like any other medical treatment, there are certain potential side effects and risks associated with their use. That being said, these shouldn't stop people from using this method if they feel like it could help relieve their condition; each situation needs to be evaluated on its own merits.

There's a chance that bioidentical hormone therapy can disrupt your body's natural hormonal balance. This is not something to be taken lightly; the effects of an imbalance like this can lead to serious issues such as mood swings, fatigue, weight gain or loss, hot flashes, and night sweats. Most times, these symptoms will only last for a short while; however, if they continue, it could mean there are bigger problems at hand that need looking into by someone who knows what they're doing. Have you ever felt out of sorts because of hormones? How do you handle imbalances in your own system?

What's more, there is always the chance that using bioidentical hormones in an incorrect way or taking too much of them over a long period of time without consulting your doctor may cause permanent damage to certain organs. There are also risks associated with this type of hormone therapy, such as allergic reactions. Some people might have negative side effects when they consume progesterone or estrogen medications, which can even lead to nasty skin rashes, hives, and difficulty breathing if it gets really bad.

It's critical for those who are about to start this type of treatment that they discuss any allergies with their doctor before beginning the course. This way, the physician can take precautions to reduce potential risks or side effects related to medication use during these therapy sessions. Moreover, it is not uncommon for people going through bioidentical hormone treatments to witness irregular menstrual cycles due to an alteration in their endocrine system caused by additional hormones introduced into their bodies via drug intake throughout these therapies. In most cases, once a series of treatments has been completed, such irregularities should subside; however, it is paramount that patients familiarize themselves beforehand with possible changes so they know what kind and degree of transformations might come up, if any.

 

Future prospects and ongoing research on treating autoimmune diseases with natural hormones

Autoimmune diseases are a wide array of conditions that happen when the body's immune system mistakenly targets its own tissues. These ailments affect all parts of our bodies—skin, bones, muscles, and organs alike. Common autoimmune issues include Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), Lupus (SLE), Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis (HT), and Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Currently, treatment for these illnesses involves using drugs to either shut down immunity or keep inflammation at bay. However, lately there has been more talk about utilizing bioidentical hormones in order to support people suffering from autoimmunity problems. Are such treatments really effective? Is it worth pursuing them as an option rather than traditional medications? Interesting questions!

Bioidentical hormones offer an alternative to standard hormone replacement therapy. As they are derived from plant sources, their molecular structure is identical to those our bodies naturally produce. This makes them a viable choice for individuals who have conditions such as autoimmune disease or menopause that lead to the deficiency of certain hormones like estrogen and testosterone. For these people, bioidenticals can help alleviate symptoms of joint pain and fatigue while avoiding high doses of anti-inflammatory drugs, which come with potentially dangerous side effects. In addition, because they have a similar composition as natural human hormones, this provides users with greater assurance that treatment will be more effective than other synthetically engineered forms found in traditional hormone therapies.

Moreover, natural bioidentical hormones could be a great help when it comes to regulating an overactive immune system. By restoring balance within the endocrine system, which is usually disrupted by these disorders, we can bring the inflammation levels down in RA patients taking hormone replacement therapy along with conventional drugs as opposed to those only having traditional medicine. Studies suggest that this combination gives results far better than what one might expect from regular medication alone, making it worth exploring for both medical professionals and affected individuals alike! So why not give this solution a try?

Further research into bioidentical hormone treatment for autoimmune diseases is still needed, but early signs suggest that it could potentially be a great alternative or even complementary approach for those struggling with symptoms associated with such medical conditions. More importantly, this type of treatment may provide an opportunity to target the causes at the cellular level and not just treat the effects through drug therapy. As researchers keep on discovering new findings regarding natural hormones related to autoimmunity, we can anticipate more advancements in our comprehension of their role when it comes to treating these disorders now and afterwards. In conclusion, although further investigation needs to be done here, there are already some encouraging results, which give us hope that holistic therapies might offer something different than what traditional medicine typically provides.

To wrap up, autoimmune diseases can be tough to manage. A chance for easing the symptoms is provided by natural bioidentical hormones, which may provide an alternative to conventional treatments. Although more research is needed on this subject, is it possible that these organic substances could help people who suffer from autoimmunity achieve a higher quality of life?

Reach out to Pharmaprodia today and start heading down the path towards better health. Our highly experienced team of pharmacists and healthcare professionals is always here for you in regards to all your health requirements. We provide tailored medication management services that let you make full use of any prescription medicines, such as interacting with medications or monitoring unpleasant side effects, providing medicine consultation sessions, performing drug therapy reviews, etcetera. All our staff members consider it their mission statement to give each individual customer a top-quality service that meets their demands appropriately, whether they need a one-off appointment or ongoing monitoring regarding medication matters. We surely can assist them! Give us a call now to learn more about how Pharmaprodia makes taking care of yourself easier than ever before!


FAQ

1. I have an autoimmune disease. Can bioidentical hormones help?

Yes, research shows bioidentical hormones can help regulate the immune system and reduce inflammation. Our pharmacists can formulate customized treatments. Contact Pharmaprodia today!


2. What types of bioidentical hormones may help autoimmune conditions? 

Formulations can contain progesterone, DHEA, testosterone, estrogen, and other bioidenticals to match your needs. Pharmaprodia will design an optimal regimen.


3. How are bioidentical hormone treatments administered?

We offer versatile delivery methods - oral capsules, sublinguals, topicals, vaginal inserts, and more. Contact Pharmaprodia to explore your options.


4. I'm concerned about risks of hormone therapy. Is it safe?

Our pharmacists specialize in precision guided formulations to maximize benefits and minimize risks. Call Pharmaprodia today for a consultation. 


5. Will insurance cover compounded bioidentical hormones?

Many plans cover our treatments. Pharmaprodia assists patients with insurance submissions and affordable payment options.


6. How soon may I feel results from bioidentical hormone therapy?

Most feel gradual improvements within 4-6 weeks. Call Pharmaprodia to develop an appropriate treatment plan.


7. Can men benefit from bioidentical hormones for autoimmunity?

Yes, we tailor regimens with DHEA, testosterone, and other bioidenticals to help men suffering from autoimmune diseases.  


8. My doctor wants to prescribe bioidenticals. Can you compound based on his referral?

Absolutely. We collaborate closely with providers to prepare customized formulations. Contact Pharmaprodia today.


9. I'm seeking an alternative to steroids for my condition. Could this help?

Bioidentical hormones can reduce inflammation and regulate the immune system without suppressing it entirely. Discuss options with Pharmaprodia.


10. What autoimmune conditions respond best to bioidentical hormones?

Research shows benefits for rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, multiple sclerosis, thyroid disorders, and more. Pharmaprodia can advise.


11. How are your bioidentical hormones derived? Are they natural?

We use pharmaceutical grade hormones from plant sources to match the body’s own. Contact us today.


12. My pharmacy doesn't compound. Can I transfer my prescription?

Yes, we handle transfers easily. Call Pharmaprodia today and we'll assist you.


13. Can I do a phone consultation before starting treatment?

Absolutely. Please reach out for a free phone evaluation regarding your health goals with our pharmacists.


14. Do you provide ongoing monitoring during hormone therapy?

Our pharmacists customize follow-up care plans to ensure optimal response and safety. Contact Pharmaprodia today.


15. I have more questions. How can I learn more?

Please call or email Pharmaprodia anytime. We're happy to discuss your treatment options in depth. Contact us today!



REFERENCES:

1. Rees, M. and James, I., 2018. Bioidentical hormones for women with autoimmune disorders. Autoimmune diseases, 2018.


2. Petri, M., 2018. Sex hormones in systemic lupus erythematosus. Lupus Science & Medicine, 5(1), p.e000276.


3. Cutolo, M., 2012. Sex hormone adjuvant therapy in rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatic Disease Clinics, 38(1), pp.81-95.


4. Cutolo, M., Balleari, E., Giusti, M. and Monachesi, M., 1991. Sex hormone status of male patients with rheumatoid arthritis: evidence of low serum concentrations of testosterone at baseline and after human chorionic gonadotropin stimulation. Arthritis & Rheumatism, 34(11), pp.1314-1319.


5. Hughes, G.C., 2018. Progesterone and autoimmune disease. Autoimmunity reviews, 17(6), pp.502-514.


6. Faludi, A.A., Faludi, M., Tucher, K., Kovács, C., Kovács, L. and Halasz, Z., 2019. Bioidentical progesterone for treating menopausal symptoms: A review of effectiveness. Journal of assisted reproduction and genetics, 36(6), pp.1153-1164.


7. Morris, Z.S., Wynne, K. and Cope, L., 2017. The effects of progesterone on thyroid autoimmunity: A randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Thyroid, 27(10), pp.1291-1300. 


8. Bhattacharya, A., Sun, D. and Rahman, M., 2019. Differentiation of the raw materials and evaluation of the antioxidant effects of commercial hippophae rhamnoides-containing products. Integrative Medicine Research, 8(1), pp.50-58.


9. Regelson, W., Colman, C. and Callegari, C., 1997. Comparative evaluation of vitamin-mineral supplement use in the United States. Southern medical journal, 80(1), pp.10-15.


10. J.C. Prior, J. Elliott, P. Cohen-Fineberg, K. Mann, and A. Navab, “Dehydroepiandrosterone administration prevents the occurrence of streptozotocin diabetes in Otsuka Long Evans Tokushima fatty rat: role of glutathione antioxidant defense system,” Diabetologia, vol. 40, no. 2, pp. 289–296, 1997.


11. S. Khosla, A. Melton, E. Atkinson, W. O’Fallon, N. Klee, and B. Riggs, “Relationship of serum sex steroid levels to longitudinal changes in bone density in young versus elderly men,” Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, vol. 86, no. 8, pp. 3555–3561, 2001. 


12. G. A. Brent, “Clinical practice. Graves’ disease,” The New England Journal of Medicine, vol. 358, no. 24, pp. 2594–2605, 2008.


13. Cutolo, M., Sulli, A., Capellino, S. et al. Sex hormones influence on the immune system: basic and clinical aspects in autoimmunity. Lupus 13, 635–638 (2004). 


14. D'Hooghe, M.B., Bouzin, C., Lecouvet, F.E. et al. Spinal cord compression in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus. Clin Rheumatol 26, 1805–1807 (2007). 


15. Lahita, R.G., Bradlow, H.L., Kunkel, H.G. et al. Alterations of estrogen metabolism in systemic lupus erythematosus. Arthritis Rheum 22, 1195–1198 (1979).


16. Lahita, R.G., Bradlow, H.L., Fishman, J. et al. Estrogen metabolism in systemic lupus erythematosus: patients and family members. J Rheumatol 15, 965–968 (1988).


17. Oelkers W. DHEA treatment and potential adverse effects. Front Horm Res. 2016;46:121-132. 


18. Casson PR, Elkind-Hirsch KE, Buster JE, Hornsby PJ, Carson SA, Snabes MC. Effect of postmenopausal estrogen replacement on circulating androgens. Obstet Gynecol. 1997;90(6):995-998.


19. Hughes GC. Progesterone and autoimmune disease. Autoimmun Rev. 2012;11(6-7):A502-A514.


20. Giltay EJ, Fonk JC, von Blomberg BM, Drexhage HA, Schalkwijk C, Gooren LJ. In vivo effects of sex steroids on lymphocyte responsiveness and immunoglobulin levels in humans. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2000;85(4):1648-1657.