Glenn Gaunt MD LLC

So many misconceptions on hormone replacement therapy, I thought I’d share with you the latest study on this subject . The gist of it is HRT is a very effective tool to treat menopausal symptoms and should not be overlooked.

Study Explores Controversial Hormone Therapy for Menopause—With Surprising Results — Prevention The followup longitudinal study is designed to clarify results from 30 years ago.

Compound Semiglutide-An Alternative for Ozempic/Wegovy

It is common knowledge that popular weight loss drugs such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mountjero are in short supply. Additionally, the cost can be prohibitive for some people, especially those without insurance coverage.

One alternative available in the market is using a compound semiglutide from a trusted compound pharmacy. In this article, we’ll discuss the benefits, costs, and other concerns regarding compound semiglutide. This option is available through our office in Minnesota and Colorado.

1. What is compound semiglutide?
Compound semaglutide refers to a form of the medication semaglutide that is compounded by a pharmacy. Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA) used to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity. Compound pharmacies can create customized formulations of semaglutide to meet specific patient needs, such as adjusting the dosage strength or creating alternative formulations like sublingual tablets or transdermal creams. This approach allows for more personalized treatment options compared to commercially available medications like Ozempic or Wegovy.

2. How is it made?
The process generally is as follows:

Ingredient Sourcing: The pharmacy obtains the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API), which in this case is semaglutide. The API is typically sourced from reputable manufacturers or suppliers.

Quality Control: The API undergoes rigorous quality control measures to ensure its purity, potency, and stability. This is crucial to maintain the safety and efficacy of the compounded medication.

Formulation Development: Pharmacists work with the API to develop a customized formulation based on the patient's specific needs. This may involve adjusting the dosage strength, choosing alternative delivery methods (e.g., sublingual, transdermal), or adding compatible excipients to improve stability or absorption.

Compounding Process: The compounding pharmacy follows strict guidelines and protocols to compound the semaglutide formulation accurately. This includes measuring and mixing the ingredients, ensuring proper dissolution, and preparing the final dosage form (e.g., tablets, injections, creams).

Quality Assurance: After compounding, the medication undergoes additional quality assurance checks to verify its potency, purity, and stability. This helps ensure that the compounded semaglutide meets the required standards for safety and effectiveness.

Patient Counseling: The pharmacy provides thorough counseling to the patient on how to use the compounded semaglutide correctly, including dosage instructions, storage guidelines, potential side effects, and any other relevant information.

3. Is it safe?
Compound semaglutide, like any compounded medication, can be safe when prepared and used appropriately under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider. However, there are some considerations to keep in mind regarding the safety of compound semaglutide:

Quality of Compounding: The safety of compound semaglutide depends significantly on the quality of the compounding process. It's essential to obtain compounded medications from reputable compounding pharmacies that adhere to strict quality control measures and regulatory standards.

Accuracy of Dosage: Compounded medications, including compound semaglutide, must be accurately dosed to ensure effectiveness and minimize the risk of side effects. Pharmacists in compounding pharmacies must follow precise protocols to measure and mix the ingredients correctly.

Potential Contamination or Impurities: Compounded medications can be susceptible to contamination or impurities if proper hygiene and manufacturing practices are not followed during the compounding process. Patients should ensure that the compounding pharmacy adheres to high standards of cleanliness and quality assurance.

Individualized Formulations: Compound semaglutide may be customized to meet specific patient needs, such as adjusting the dosage strength or creating alternative formulations. While this personalized approach can be beneficial, it's essential to ensure that the customized formulation is safe and appropriate for the individual patient.

Monitoring and Adverse Reactions: Patients receiving compound semaglutide should be monitored regularly by their healthcare provider for any potential adverse reactions or side effects. Prompt reporting of any concerns or unusual symptoms is crucial for ensuring the safety of the medication.

Overall, compound semaglutide can be safe when prepared and used correctly under professional supervision. Ask your doctor for the compound pharmacy that she or he regularly uses. You can also get referrals from sources such as Alliance for Pharmacy Compounding.

4. Is it effective?
The effectiveness of compound semaglutide, like any medication, depends on various factors, including the patient's specific condition, dosage, adherence to treatment, and overall health status. However, there are several considerations to keep in mind regarding the effectiveness of compound semaglutide:

Customized Dosage: Compound pharmacies can tailor the dosage of semaglutide to better match the patient's needs. This customization may lead to improved effectiveness compared to standard dosages if the patient requires a specific dose that is not commercially available.

Alternative Formulations: Compounding pharmacies can create alternative formulations of semaglutide, such as sublingual tablets or transdermal creams. These formulations may offer advantages such as improved absorption or reduced side effects, potentially enhancing the medication's effectiveness for some patients.

Patient Adherence: Effectiveness also depends on the patient's adherence to the treatment regimen. Compounded medications that are easier to administer or have fewer side effects may lead to better adherence and thus better outcomes.

Quality of Compounding: The quality of the compounding process is crucial in ensuring the potency, stability, and overall effectiveness of compound semaglutide. Reputable compounding pharmacies follow strict guidelines and quality control measures to produce high-quality compounded medications.

Consultation and Monitoring: Patients receiving compound semaglutide should have regular consultations with healthcare providers to monitor their response to treatment, adjust dosages if needed, and address any concerns or side effects promptly. This ongoing monitoring and support can contribute to the medication's effectiveness.

5. How much does it cost?
At the time of this writing, the monthly cost for compound semiglutide is between $250-300 for a one month’s supply.

6. Where can I get compound semiglutide in Minnesota?
If you are looking to manage weight loss and are considering Wegovy or Ozempic but do not have insurance coverage or cannot wait for the long lead time, compound semiglutide might be a viable option.

Compound semiglutide requires a prescription from a medical professional licensed by the medical board of Minnesota. Contact our office if you reside in Minnesota and need assistance acquiring a prescription.

Sharing with you an article from the NY Times regarding menopausal weight gain and how medications could help.

A New Match for Menopausal Weight Gain: Ozempic Weight gain is one of the most common concerns among women going through menopause. New drugs could change that.

https://apple.news/Awpm8fiqqSPmlMSj6FszcXQ

How Dozens of Websites Sell Knock-Off Drugs, No Prescription Required — The Wall Street Journal Online sellers are advertising semaglutide and tirzepatide, the active ingredients in Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro, at deep discounts with research-use disclaimers the FDA has called ‘bogus’

Debunking the Myth: Why Eating Yams Will Not Cure Hot Flashes

Hot flashes are a common and often uncomfortable symptom experienced by many women during menopause. While various remedies and treatments have been explored to alleviate these symptoms, one myth that has gained some popularity suggests that eating yams can effectively cure hot flashes. In this article, we will delve into the science behind hot flashes, examine the yam myth, and provide evidence-based insights into why eating yams will not provide a cure.

Understanding Hot Flashes

Before discussing the yam myth, it's crucial to understand the underlying causes of hot flashes. Hot flashes are primarily associated with hormonal changes, particularly a decrease in estrogen levels during menopause. These episodes often manifest as sudden, intense feelings of heat, accompanied by rapid heart rate, sweating, and even redness of the skin.

The Yam Myth

The belief that eating yams can cure hot flashes primarily stems from the idea that yams contain a compound called diosgenin, which is a precursor to the hormone progesterone. Progesterone, a hormone produced in the ovaries, plays a role in regulating the menstrual cycle. Some people have misunderstood this relationship, assuming that consuming yams would increase progesterone levels and alleviate hot flashes.

However, this oversimplification neglects several critical factors:

Diosgenin Conversion: While it's true that diosgenin can be converted into progesterone in a laboratory setting, the human body lacks the necessary enzymes to perform this conversion effectively. Consuming yams does not result in a significant increase in progesterone levels.

Complex Hormonal Interactions: Hot flashes are not solely the result of low progesterone levels but rather a complex interplay of hormones. Estrogen, serotonin, and norepinephrine also play essential roles in regulating body temperature. Yam consumption does not address these complex hormonal interactions.

Individual Variability: Every woman's experience of hot flashes during menopause is unique, and the causes and triggers can vary widely. There is no one-size-fits-all solution, and what works for one person may not work for another.

Evidence-Based Approaches to Managing Hot Flashes

Rather than relying on the yam myth, women experiencing hot flashes during menopause should consider evidence-based approaches to manage their symptoms:

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): HRT, under the guidance of a healthcare provider, can help alleviate hot flashes by supplementing estrogen and, if necessary, progesterone.

Lifestyle Changes: Healthy lifestyle modifications, such as maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular exercise, and managing stress, can significantly reduce the severity and frequency of hot flashes.

Alternative Therapies: Some women find relief through complementary therapies like acupuncture, mindfulness-based stress reduction, or yoga.

Medications: Non-hormonal medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), have been shown to be effective in managing hot flashes for some women.

Sharing with you an article I thought worth reading. Be careful out there yes? Always make sure you deal with a reputable pharmacy, that you buy only FDA-approved meds, and that you have a doctor to make sure you are on the right path.

Inside the gold rush to sell cheaper imitations of Ozempic — The Washington Post The popularity of Ozempic for weight loss has fueled a cottage industry selling off-brand versions, taking advantage of a regulation allowing pharmacies to copy drugs in shortage.

Hormone Replacement Therapy and Vasomotor Symptoms
Vasomotor symptoms are a common set of symptoms experienced by women during menopause, and they include hot flashes and night sweats. Let's explore the relationship between Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) and vasomotor symptoms in more detail:
Vasomotor Symptoms:

These symptoms are characterized by sudden sensations of heat in the upper body, often accompanied by flushing of the face and neck, sweating, and sometimes chills. Hot flashes can be bothersome and disruptive, affecting a woman's quality of life.

HRT and Vasomotor Symptoms:

HRT is an effective treatment for vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause. Estrogen, the primary hormone used in HRT, helps regulate body temperature and reduces the frequency and severity of hot flashes and night sweats. Progestin may also be added to HRT for women who have a uterus to protect the uterine lining.

Benefits of HRT for Vasomotor Symptoms:

HRT significantly reduces the frequency and severity of hot flashes and night sweats. When vasomotor symptoms are effectively managed, many women experience improved sleep, mood, and overall well-being.

Alternative Treatments:

Some women may prefer or be advised to explore non-hormonal approaches to manage vasomotor symptoms. These include lifestyle modifications, herbal supplements, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and medications like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs).

Before starting HRT or any treatment for menopausal symptoms, women must have a discussion with their healthcare provider. They can assess individual risks and benefits and help women make informed decisions about managing their vasomotor symptoms during menopause.

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) positively impacts bone health, particularly in postmenopausal women.
During menopause, a woman's estrogen levels decline significantly. Estrogen plays a crucial role in maintaining bone density, and its decline can lead to osteoporosis, characterized by weakened and brittle bones. Osteoporosis increases the risk of fractures and other bone-related issues.
HRT and Estrogen:
Hormone replacement therapy involves taking medications that contain hormones, typically estrogen and sometimes progestin (a synthetic form of progesterone). By providing the body with the hormones it no longer produces in sufficient quantities, HRT can help alleviate the symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes and mood swings. The amount replaced is only about 1/20th (or 5 percent) of what the ovaries produced before menopause.

Bone Health Benefits:

HRT has a positive impact on bone health. Estrogen helps maintain bone density, and by replacing the declining estrogen levels, HRT can slow down bone loss and reduce the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. It can also help alleviate joint pain and stiffness associated with osteoporosis.

Alternative Treatments:

Some women may choose alternative methods for maintaining bone health, such as lifestyle changes (diet, exercise, and smoking cessation).

Regular Monitoring: If a woman decides to use HRT for bone health, it's important to work closely with a healthcare provider to monitor its effectiveness and to assess any potential side effects or risks. Regular bone density testing may also be recommended to track changes in bone density over time.

In conclusion, HRT can positively impact bone health, especially in postmenopausal women, by helping to prevent bone loss and reduce the risk of osteoporosis and things like hip fractures later in life. The decision to use HRT should be made carefully, considering an individual's overall health, medical history, and potential risks associated with HRT. It's essential to discuss with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate approach to managing bone health during and after menopause.

Menopause is a natural phase in a woman's life when her menstrual cycles cease, and estrogen and progesterone levels decrease. This can lead to various sexual health issues, including vaginal dryness, decreased libido, and painful in*******se. HRT, which involves estrogen and sometimes progesterone, can alleviate these symptoms. It can improve vaginal lubrication and restores sexual desire and function.
Libido:
In menopausal women, declining estrogen levels can lead to reduced libido and vaginal dryness. HRT helps alleviate these symptoms and improves libido. Libido is not solely determined by hormones. Psychological and emotional factors, such as mental health, body image, relationship satisfaction, and stress, also play significant roles. HRT can impacts these factors indirectly, potentially increasing libido.

Vaginal dryness:

HRT increases vaginal lubrication, making in*******se more comfortable and reducing the risk of irritation and pain during sexual activity.

Estrogen maintains the thickness and elasticity of vaginal tissues. When estrogen levels decline, these tissues can become thin, dry, and more prone to irritation and infection. HRT restores and maintains the health of vaginal tissues.

Vaginal dryness causes itching, burning, and general discomfort. HRT can alleviate these symptoms by addressing the underlying cause.

While HRT can have a significant impact on physical health, it can also positively influence psychological well-being in several ways:
Mood and Emotional Well-Being:

HRT can affect mood and emotional well-being. For example, some individuals report improved mood and reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety when receiving HRT. This effect is particularly noticeable in menopausal women who may experience mood swings and emotional disturbances due to hormonal changes.

Cognitive Function:

Hormones, including estrogen and testosterone, can have effects on cognitive function. Some studies suggest that HRT, especially in postmenopausal women, may have a positive impact on cognitive function, memory, and mental clarity. However, more research is needed in this area.

Quality of Life:

HRT can improve the overall quality of life for individuals experiencing symptoms related to hormone imbalances, such as hot flashes, sleep disturbances, and sexual dysfunction. By addressing these issues, HRT can lead to a better sense of well-being.

Body Image and Self-Esteem:

HRT can have a significant impact on body composition, including fat distribution and muscle mass.

It's important to note that the effects of HRT on psychological health can vary widely from person to person. Individual responses to hormone therapy depend on factors like age, genetics, baseline hormone levels, and pre-existing mental health conditions. Additionally, the type and duration of HRT can also influence its psychological effects.
Psychological benefits of HRT should be considered alongside potential risks and side effects. These treatments should always be undertaken under the guidance of qualified healthcare professionals who can monitor their effects and make adjustments as necessary.

Glenn Gaunt MD, a telehealth startup, is excited to announce its official launch, offering an option other than traditional healthcare by providing accessible and convenient healthcare services to patients from the comfort of their homes. With a commitment to quality and focus on compassionate care, the aim is to improve access and personalize the patient experience.
Dr. Gaunt offers specialty services that focus on postmenopausal symptoms, weight loss management, medication supervision, monitoring of chronic conditions, and general women’s health issues. This is accomplished by virtual consultations that makes him easily accessible for about the cost of a cup of coffee per day. Through secure video calls, patients can now connect with a board-certified medical doctor without needing to travel, ensuring timely and efficient healthcare services.
Key Features:
• Professional Expertise: Thirty years of experience in biomedical science as a researcher, surgeon, clinician, author, professor, and mentor to doctors in training ensure that the patient receives top-notch medical care.

• Convenient Access: Patients can schedule appointments at their convenience, eliminating the need to invest hours in a traditional healthcare setting. Patients avoid the stress of driving to a clinic, find a parking spot, wait in a waiting room, and wait in an exam room for an appointment that can be cancelled if they are delayed in traffic and arrive too late. The idea was born through a desire to help women navigate the complexities of obtaining health care in this increasingly busy world.

• Secure and Private: Patient confidentiality and privacy is the highest priority, employing all measures to protect sensitive information. The service is fully compliant with Federal protections under HIPPA Privacy Rules.

• User-Friendly Platform: Both website and mobile interfaces of the GlennGauntMD platform make it easy for patients to navigate and access the services they need. A primary goal is to deliver women’s health care with a personal touch and individual attention.
Dr. Gaunt, founder and CEO, is quoted to say "We are proud to participate in this evolving era of healthcare. Patients have the freedom to connect with myself and our team barriers. Our mission is to improve lives by providing convenient, high-quality, and personalized healthcare services. We believe that everyone deserves accessible healthcare, and our telehealth platform makes this vision a reality."
Dr. Gaunt goes on to point out that the United States is the highest spending country worldwide when it comes to health care. However, measures of quality and access to care rank the US in last place when compared to the top seven industrialized countries.
The situation is complex, but critics argue that explosive growth in health care administration is a major factor in high cost and inefficiency. Dr. Gaunt states, “Today there are now 10 administrators for every physician in the United States. That seems upside down. We have an overcomplicated system, affecting patients with increasing layers of bureaucracy each year that goes by. We deserve better. We want to bring back the patient-physician relationship.”

To learn more about GlennGauntMD and its services, please visit glenngauntmd.com.

GlennGauntMD is a forward-thinking telehealth startup committed to enhancing the healthcare experience for women. By leveraging technology and a dedicated team of professionals, they deliver convenient, secure, and high-quality healthcare.