Pellet therapy is long-lasting - but it differs significantly from Oestra® in flexibility and control.
If you're currently using hormone pellets and considering a transition to Oestra®, it's important to understand that the process is different than switching from oral or topical hormone therapy. Because pellets continuously release hormones over time and cannot be removed once inserted, timing your transition appropriately is key.
In most cases, we recommend waiting until you are approaching your next scheduled pellet insertion - typically around 3 months after placement - before beginning Oestra®. This allows the hormone levels from your existing pellets to naturally decline before introducing a new source of hormone therapy.
Since pellet hormones remain active in the body for an extended period, adding Oestra® too early may result in excessive hormone exposure and increase the likelihood of unwanted side effects.
Because every woman's pellet dose, formulation, and response can vary, we strongly encourage you to reach out to our Clinical Team before making any changes. Our clinicians can help determine the best timing for your individual transition.
It's also important to understand that switching to Oestra® is not a one-to-one exchange. Even if your pellet therapy was providing symptom relief, your experience with Oestra® may feel different due to differences in hormone delivery, absorption, and dosing flexibility.
How Pellets Work
Pellets are:
Implanted under the skin
Designed to release hormones over ~3 months
Challenges include:
Limited ability to adjust dose
Risk of hormone “overshoot”
Symptoms if levels become too high or too low
How Oestra® Differs
Oestra® offers:
Daily dosing with flexibility
Easier adjustments based on symptoms
More consistent hormone levels
Important Transition Guidance
If switching from pellets:
Wait until you’re near your next scheduled refill (~3 months)
This prevents hormone overlap and unwanted symptoms
Why Oestra® May Feel Stronger
Because of its high absorption:
Even a starting dose may feel like a step up
Your body may need a short recalibration period
Bottom Line
Pellets are fixed and long-acting. Oestra® is adjustable, consistent, and highly efficient, giving you more control over your therapy.