Women Using Compounded 'Bioidentical' Hormones Miss the Full Story About These Drugs

/PRNewswire/ -- Women in, or past, menopause who use specially compounded "bioidentical" hormones to treat menopause-related symptoms, such as hot flushes, often don't get adequate information from compounding pharmacists about the drugs' risks and realistic potential for benefit. That's one of the concerns about these medications addressed by menopause expert JoAnn V. Pinkerton, MD, in "'Bioidentical' hormones: What you (and your patient) need to know," in the January issue of OBG Management.

So-called bioidentical hormones are chemically similar to hormones released by the body, including those produced in the ovaries -- estrone, estradiol, estriol, progesterone, testosterone, and dehydroepiandrosterone, to name some.

"The FDA has approved many prescription products that contain 'bioidentical' hormones," says Pinkerton, "but 'bioidentical' is often used to refer to custom-compounded hormones. The major difference between FDA-approved prescription bioidentical hormone products and custom-compounded products is that only the former are regulated by the FDA and tested for purity, potency, efficacy, and safety."

"That means it's up to physicians who prescribe compounded hormones to educate their patients -- about potential risks and benefits, absence of FDA oversight, purity and potency concerns, and lack of peer-reviewed data on efficacy and safety," Pinkerton says.

"Practitioners need to recognize that women who ask for these hormones may be vulnerable -- because of anxiety and depression that often accompany menopausal symptoms -- to unsubstantiated claims or recommendations of self-proclaimed experts."

"Compounded hormones aren't safer, or more effective, than traditional FDA-approved hormone therapies," Pinkerton emphasizes. "No data support individualized, personalized therapy based on testing hormone levels in saliva. And compounded bioidentical hormones don't prevent cancer; they probably have the same potential to cause cancer, and present the same other health risks, as FDA-approved hormones."

Bioidentical hormones are one of the biggest products of the multibillion-dollar US pharmaceutical compounding industry, observes Bruce Patsner, MD, JD, who contributed to the OBG Management article. Patsner, an expert on pharmacy compounding of prescription hormone therapy, served as senior medical officer at the FDA and is now Research Professor of Law at the University of Houston Law Center.

JoAnn V. Pinkerton, MD, is Professor and Vice Chair of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Virginia Health System in Charlottesville, where she directs The Women's Place Midlife Health Center. She is a member of the Board of Editors of OBG Management, a review publication for ObGyns (www.obgmanagement.com).

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A Chic Change-Transform Haircolor With Expert Tips And Quality Products

(NAPSI)-It's easier than ever to make a commitment to achieving natural-looking haircolor with long-lasting benefits. Whether looking to enhance color, cover grays or change shades, there are a variety of award-winning products available today. According to Clairol Color Director Jason Backe, "Haircolor is one of the simplest ways to achieve a total makeover-it's an artistic expression of personal beauty and a great way to invest in your look." Backe, the go-to colorist for celebrities like Anne Hathaway and Kim Raver, and CEO of ted gibson salon, shares tips on affordable, high-quality haircolor makeovers.

What is the secret to at-home haircolor?

"Spending a few extra dollars at the shelf for products with guarantees and carefully crafted shade palettes will pay off in the long run. Haircolor should always be easy to apply and give a natural-looking, long-lasting result. I like Perfect 10 by Nice 'n Easy, one of the biggest beauty breakthroughs this year and a product with the benefits women crave. Perfect 10 gives high-gloss, high-shine color and 100 percent gray coverage in just 10 minutes. The patented comb applicator allows for quick, precise application and also gives full and even root-to-tip coverage."

How can I find a product and a shade that is right for me?

"When deciding between products, I recommend the award-winners or products featuring a beauty seal of approval from magazines like Allure. You know these products have been tried and proven effective by beauty experts. Haircolor shades should enhance your skin tone and complement your eyes. The shade should be within two shades-lighter or darker-of your natural color. Cool colors work best with pink and olive complexions while golden tones shine when paired with tan skin and light eyes or medium skin and dark eyes. This is especially important during the start of the year, when skin tones tend to need a boost."

What is the best way to apply haircolor?

"I prefer haircolor with non-drip formulas and easy-to-use tools such as applicator combs or brushes. Choosing a product with these tools will save you time and give a better end result. Start application near the nape of the neck and work to the front hairline. When touching up color, apply directly to the roots, hairline and temples."

What can I do for routine haircolor upkeep?

"To care for your new look, try a maintenance product that rids the part, temple and forehead areas of roots or pesky grays. A product like Nice 'n Easy Root Touch-Up, a best-in-beauty winner for root coverage, gets rid of pesky roots or grays in a snap! It works in just 10 minutes, easily fitting into morning routines."

Does color-treated hair need special maintenance or treatment?

"Treat haircolor with special care-like a favorite cashmere sweater. Haircolor stays fresh and maintains radiance and shine with a notable product like Pantene Pro-V Expressions Shampoo with Liquid Crystals. The Pro-Vitamin formula with patented liquid crystal technology creates a protective layer on the hair shaft that helps repel water and condition hair to help keep vibrant color radiant.

"Achieving a beauty transformation or routine upkeep can be affordable and effortless this year by choosing award-winning, high-quality products available in stores today," says Backe.

For more information about Allure magazine's "Best of Beauty" Award Winners-Perfect 10 by Nice 'n Easy, Nice 'n Easy Root Touch-Up, and Pantene Pro-V Expressions-please visit www.clairol.com and www.pantene.com/expressions.

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Make the Most Important Investment This Year -- Invest in Your Health

(ARA) - Obesity is a mounting health problem locally and worldwide. More than 1 billion adults globally are overweight, and at least 300 million are obese, according to the World Health Organization.

Obesity not only takes a toll on personal health, it can inflict a huge monetary cost on individuals as well as the economy in general:

* When compared with their healthy-weight counterparts, healthcare spending among the obese is 37 percent higher, reports The Policy Journal of the Health Spheres.

* The rise in obesity contributed to the increase in spending related to diseases such as heart disease and diabetes, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Fortunately, a sustained 10 percent weight loss may reduce an overweight person’s lifetime medical costs by $2,200 to $5,300 by lowering costs related to hypertension and high cholesterol, among many other related illnesses. Additionally, sustaining a 5 to 10 percent weight loss over six months or longer has been shown to improve health by helping to:

* Lower the risk of heart disease.
* Reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.
* Reduce the risk of some kinds of cancer.
* Reduce the strain on joints.

So if weight loss is your resolution this year, or you want to make an important investment in your health, consider an approach that is not just designed to take weight off, but to help you change your behavior.

Just in time for the new year, Weight Watchers has introduced the Momentum program which encourages smarter food and lifestyle choices. Your weight loss plans can absolutely stay on track in 2009, but it’s important to choose a weight-loss plan that truly teaches you how to make healthy, sustainable changes.

Here are Weight Watchers 10 Tips for a Healthy 2009:

* Look for low-calorie substitutions that don’t sacrifice taste. For example, switching from mayo to mustard can add to big calorie savings over time.

* Losing weight with a friend or group of friends really helps with weight-loss success.

* Ounce for ounce, the nutrition in fruits and vegetables can’t be beat. To get the best blend of nutrients, include as many colors as possible.

* Put a napkin over your plate as soon as you’re satisfied -- it’s like turning off a light switch.

* Purge unhealthy food from your pantry, freezer and fridge.

* Make physical activity as convenient as possible. Keep your sneakers and jacket ready and nearby for short, frequent walks.

* Try creating a new favorite dish. Visit www.weightwatchers.com for delicious recipe ideas.

* Wear something you feel fabulous in -- a compliment goes a long way in sustaining motivation.

* Set new goals to keep yourself motivated. Goals do not have to be weight related.

* Know what you’re doing. Write down what you’re eating each and every day to keep you on target.

To find out more, visit a Weight Watchers Meeting for free or go to www.weightwatchers.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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Find the Perfect Pearls For Your Wedding Ensemble

(ARA) – Pearls are the perfect wedding companion. Known by some as the “Queen of Gems,” the classic elegance of pearls transcends centuries and style fads. Nothing looks more beautiful with a bridal gown than a single strand of flawless pearls.

But pearls are not just for the bride -- they’re the perfect accessory for bridesmaids as well. Today, you can find pearls in shades ranging from the traditional white all the way through the color spectrum, including pink, green and even black, so they will coordinate with the wedding party’s dresses.

If you’re confused by the different types of pearls on the market, you’re not alone. “Pearls are classified according to their origin and their shape,” says Natalie Parman, vice president of merchandising at Jewelry TV. “Because of the wide variety of pearls available, you can choose a look and a price that is right for you.”

Pearls are formed when a foreign object enters the shell of a mollusk and triggers the release of nacre, which builds layer upon layer until a pearl is formed. Most pearls in retail stores today are cultured pearls. They are less expensive than natural pearls because they are mass-produced with the aid of technology. Instead of waiting for nature to take its course, pearl farmers insert an irritant and a nucleus (often a mother of pearl bead) into an oyster to speed up the process. Cultured pearls come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and many are dyed, which means you can find a wide range of colors.

Akoya cultured pearls are produced by the Akoya oyster found in the waters surrounding Japan. They are almost perfectly round and are well known for their high luster and rich color, which can range from white to cream, pink, green, silver and gold. These pearls can vary in size from between 2 millimeters to 10 millimeters. “Cultured Akoya pearls are the quintessential ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s’ strand in a creamy white color,” says Parman. “Multiple strands or choker styles are hot wedding trends.” Because they are affordable, cultured Akoya pearls also make great bridesmaids and mothers’ gifts.

South Sea cultured pearls are larger than Akoyas, usually more than 10 millimeters. Produced in the warm waters of the South Seas, they come mainly from Australia, Indonesia and the Philippines. These pearls are usually white, yellow or gold. Due to their size and rarity, South Sea pearls are expensive. Exotic golden South Sea pearls in particular have gained popularity in the United States in recent years. “If you’re choosing a special strand of pearls for your wedding, this can be a good jewelry investment,” says Parman.

Tahitian pearls are produced in Tahiti, the Cook Islands and Mexico. They range in color from black, to aubergine, pistachio and many other colors, often with overtones of blue, pink or green. These pearls range between 8 and 15 millimeters and are highly valued because of their rarity. “Wear Tahitian pearls to your rehearsal dinner, or pack them as part of your honeymoon wardrobe,” says Parman.

When choosing pearls, look for nacre thickness and quality. Nacre quality determines how long the pearl will last as well as how light reflects through the pearls. Check for any cracks or peeling in the nacre. Also, look for how the pearls on a strand are matched. Pearl matching affects the value of the piece, as mismatched pearls are not as aesthetically pleasing. Finally, look for pearls that are individually knotted between each pearl instead of just strung one after the other -- that’s a sign of quality.

Whatever your jewelry wish for your wedding day, visit www.jtv.com for a great selection of pearl necklaces, bracelets and earrings.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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Financial Woes Can Add To Health Concerns

GBB Note: Part of women's beauty comes from taking care of themselves.

(NAPSI)-Financial problems may have an effect on the health of women and their families.

That's one of the key findings of a new survey that indicates many women have failed to seek health care for themselves or their families to save money. Findings also indicate that many women say their health has gotten worse over the past five years and that the primary cause women cite for this decline is stress.

"Today's financial crisis and increasing health costs are clearly impacting women's decisions around health care, and their physical and emotional well-being," said Elizabeth Battaglino Cahill, RN, executive director of National Women's Health Resource Center (NWHRC), which commissioned the survey. "It's hard to stay calm and relaxed given our hectic lives-even in the best of times. But women need to understand that skimping on health care to save them money may cost them more in the long run."

Conducted by Harris Interactive, the fourth annual, national Women T.A.L.K. survey found a significant number of women report making sacrifices in order to reduce their expenditures on health care and that their health is declining.

• Nearly half of women have failed to seek medical care in the past year because the cost was too high. This includes skipping doctor's visits, recommended medical procedures and medication for themselves or their families.

The study also showed that while women were most likely to put off doctor visits for themselves, they were least likely to put off doctor visits for their children.

• Hispanic women were most likely to have skipped health care in the past year.

• More than 40 percent of women report their health has declined over the past five years and the most common reasons given for this were stress and weight gain.

• At the same time, a solid majority of women reported a willingness to make lifestyle changes -such as improving their diet, exercising or eliminating smoking-if it would help lower their health care costs.

"Long-term stress and weight gain can significantly increase women's risk for other health problems," said Battaglino Cahill. "Women need help in managing stress and part of that equation is good nutrition and regular exercise. There are many simple, no-cost steps they can take to manage stress, including eating better, exercising, deep breathing, meditation and organizing and prioritizing activities."

For more tips on managing stress, visit www.healthywomen.org/wellness.

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Be Sun Smart All Year Round

(NAPSI)-Many people think that summer is the only time to take caution with the sun, but sun protection is important year-round. While skiing or visiting warmer climates in the winter, it is important to remember to protect yourself.

Surprising to many sun-loving Americans is that 40 percent of the more than 250,000 new cases of squamous cell carcinoma (a type of skin cancer) may be the result of ignoring a condition few people have ever heard of: actinic keratoses, or AKs. These are precancerous skin lesions that have the potential to progress to a more serious condition.

What Are AKs?

An AK is a small, crusty or scaly bump or horn that arises on or beneath the skin surface. The base may be light or dark, tan, pink, red or a combination of these, or the same color as the skin. The crust is horny, dry and rough. Occasionally, it itches or produces a pricking or tender sensation. It can also become inflamed and surrounded by redness. In rare instances, actinic keratoses can bleed.

Who Is At Risk?

• People 40 and over who have had chronic sun exposure; burn rather than tan in the sun; and spend large amounts of time in the sun without sunscreen are at higher risk for AKs. Doctors recommend a regular skin screening by a dermatologist. The good news is that AKs are treatable when identified-before they have the potential to progress to a more serious condition such as squamous cell carcinoma. One of the medications doctors use is Carac® (Fluorouracil Cream 0.5%), a topical cream that is safe and effective in the treatment of AKs. It is available by prescription and is the only topical with convenient "once daily dosing." Carac is indicated for the topical treatment of multiple actinic or solar keratoses of the face and anterior scalp.

Important Safety Information

Carac should not be used by women who are pregnant, considering becoming pregnant, or nursing. Carac should not be used by people with dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD) enzyme deficiency. The most common side effects are skin reactions including redness, dryness, burning, pain, erosion (loss of upper layer of skin), swelling and eye irritation. For more information, visit www.carac.info.

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Five Anti-Aging Tips Under $5

(NAPSI)-Let's face it. A youthful appearance often comes at a price, and in these tough economic times, many are slowing down on their spending. A recent consumer confidence poll indicates that 59 percent of women have cut spending on cosmetics and 55 percent decreased their skin care purchases.

But according to celebrity makeup artist and beauty consultant Mickey Williams, one need not sacrifice beauty to save some bucks. While many celebrity clients pay hundreds to look like a million, she says similar results can be achieved with $5 or less.

"By simply changing a beauty technique or looking at products beyond the medicine cabinet, you can make a real difference in achieving a more youthful appearance at a reasonable price," said Williams. "Also, beauty buys can be had at your local drugstore. For example, Blistex Deep Renewal is a new lip treatment that contains advanced ingredients found in high-end anti-aging products, but at a fraction of the cost."

For those who want to dip into the fountain of youth without getting soaked in high costs, Williams suggests the following five anti-aging tips for under $5:

• Raid your pantry. People underestimate the aging power of stained teeth. Many teeth-whitening products are available, but nothing is more affordable and effortless in restoring your pearly whites than baking soda. Simply mix baking soda with water or your favorite minty toothpaste and brush right onto your teeth.

• Give some lip service. A slip from lips isn't the only thing that can reveal age. Fine lines and wrinkles on lips add years to the face. Keep lips looking young by moisturizing them regularly with lip balm containing SPF-15 sun protection. Also consider looking for an anti-aging lip product, such as Blistex Deep Renewal, that offers hyaluronic acid to improve skin condition and give lips a fuller appearance, and co-enzyme Q-10 for moisturization and overall revitalization. It's clinically proven to reduce the length and depth of lines and wrinkles on lips.

• Lighten up. White eyeliner eliminates the red rim that creates a tired and aged look. Gently apply a white or beige liner to the inner rim of eyes for an immediate pick-me-up and eye brightener.

• Tame the tweezing. Not only are fuller, thicker eyebrows all the rage this season, they also push the rewind button on an overall look. If brows are over-tweezed or thin by nature, use a light blond or taupe pencil-regardless of skin color-to create an illusion of a light shadow for a more natural look.

• Use concealer correctly. Using a lightweight concealer as a spot corrector is one of the best ways to hide bags and discoloration and ultimately erase years from your appearance.

"Spending less never looked so good," said Williams. "Smart shopping and correct application are things of beauty, especially in these tough economic times."

For more information on lip care tips, visit Blistex.com.

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