Pacific Compounds Pharmacy and Wellness Center

Weight Loss Seminar - A Slimmer You in 2012

2011-12-27T12:53:00.001-08:00

Learn how hormone balance plays a crucial role in weight loss. Balancing your hormones can help you on the road to a slimmer you!

Thursday, January 19th At 6:30 pm
At Pacific Compounds Pharmacy
Featured Speaker: Dr. Elizabeth McElligott

This seminar will cover the reasons why you may be gaining weight or suffering with some of the other symptoms of hormone imbalance. Dr. McElligott will lay out some simple, easy steps that you can take to get your weight back under control.

Seats are limited and reservations are required. Please call early to reserve your seat - 503-640-3080. Price is FREE!

One randomly drawn seminar attendee will receive a FREE copy of The Sonoma Diet Book. The length of the seminar is approximately 45 minutes and the doctor will have a question and answer period after.

Meet the Newest Addition to our Team!

2011-11-11T10:28:00.001-08:00

A new Doctor of Pharmacy has joined our team! Please stop by the pharmacy and meet Lincoln Wright, PharmD. He is a great addition to our staff and is ready to help you with your medication questions.

Meet Dr. Elizabeth McElligott, ND

2011-11-11T09:49:00.001-08:00

Dr. McElligott is now renting the Wellness Office at Pacific Compounds Pharmacy every Thursday. She is seeing patients from 10am to 5pm every Thursday in addition to seeing patients in her Portland location at the Glow Healthcare Integrative Medicine Clinic. She is a primary care physician that specializes in natural hormone replacement, dermatology, anti-aging medicine, aesthetic medicine and weight loss. Please drop in on a Thursday to meet her or schedule an appointment by calling: (917) 593-6328. You can also email her at: elizabethmcelligottnd@gmail.com

Natural Hormone Replacement Seminar

2011-11-03T09:10:00.000-07:00

Hot flashes, night sweats, low libido, anxiety, depression, mood swings, fatigue, weight gain...these are a few of the symptoms of hormone imbalance. It doesn't have to be like that!

Pacific Compounds Pharmacy is hosting a seminar on Natural Hormone Replacement Therapy on Thursday, December 1st at 6:30pm. The guest speaker is Dr. Elizabeth McElligott. She will share with us all the latest news and information on Natural Hormones and will have a question and answer period after her talk.

If you have questions about PMS, PCOS, peri-menopause, menopause, infertility issues or anti-aging medicine, then this is the seminar for you.

Date: Thursday, December 1, 2011
Time: 6:30 pm
Place: Pacific Compounds Pharmacy
327 SE 3rd Avenue
Hillsboro, Or 97123
Price: FREE. Reserving your seat(s) is a good idea as seating is limited and cannot be guaranteed without a reservation).

Reservations: In person or
Call: 503-640-3080 or
Email: info@pacificcompounds.com

Professional Guest Speaker: Dr. Elizabeth McElligott & Natalie Gustafson, PharmD

We hope to see you there!

CE Courses for Naturopathic Physicians

2011-07-25T15:12:00.000-07:00

Pacific Compounds Pharmacy is sponsoring a series of Naturopathic CE Courses throughout the summer and fall. Classes have been designed to be interactive, case-based and have been updated to reflect new information and changes to the Naturopathic Formulary. The August 18th class will cover Diabetes, Hypertension and Hyperlipidemia Agents and offers 2.5 hours of general or pharmacy CE.

Click here to print out a registration form. Fax this completed form to 503-640-3208 to register or you may register by calling Cory at 503-640-3080 or emailing her at: cory@pacificcompounds.com.

We look forward to seeing you in class!

Midrin Migraine Medication Is No Longer Available

2011-07-07T16:48:00.001-07:00

But the good news is that we can compound the same active ingredients for you!

Our 'Migraine-Ease' contains:

Acetaminophen 325mg
Isometheptene mucate 65mg
Chloral hydrate 63.7mg
Antipyrine 36.3mg

(these are the same active ingredients in Midrin.
You may see Dichloralphenazone listed as an active ingredient in Midrin. Dichloralphenazone is a mixture of antipyrine with chloral hydrate.)

For ease of prescribing, a prescription sent to us by your healthcare provider for "Migraine Ease" will be filled with the above ingredients and concentrations.

We can customize the concentrations or individual ingredients to adjust for specific patient needs if requested. As an example, we could substitute ibuprofen in place of acetaminophen for patients with liver problems.

Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions. Have a great week!

Inspirational....

2011-04-21T16:19:00.001-07:00

I found the following blog that is being posted by a woman who is battling hepatitis C and the aftermath of hurricane Katrina, too. It is a wonderful blog and if any of you have questions about the efficacy of Low Dose Naltrexone, I highly recommend you take a look!

Click here to see her blog

Are Your Hormone Imbalances Making You Fat? by Dr. Jan Seibert

2011-02-10T13:47:00.000-08:00

Dr. Jan Seibert
Medical Director
Hormone Rejuvenation Center
2187 SW Main Street #103
Portland, OR 97205
503-477-9340

As we age, both men and women struggle to maintain a healthy weight. We try to tell ourselves that it's OK to gain a pound here and there.

Increasing one or two pounds a year can result in a serious weight gain of 10 to 20 pounds in a decade!

In August, Dr. Virend Somers, a Mayo Clinic cardiologist, published his research study stating that gaining as little as nine pounds of fat around the abdominal area puts healthy people at risk for cardiovascular problems, high cholesterol, irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias) and even heart attacks.

What is our number one enemy in gaining that midlife belly fat? Too much stress.

Our daily schedules tend to be overcrowded with so many commitments, leaving very little time for exercise, relaxation and restoration. We have become what I call a "sedentary society that stares at screens."

Whether it's sitting in your car ordering off the restaurant menu boards, working at a computer, texting from mobile devices or staring at your favorite program on that 42 inch led television, our brains are overworked from visual information, leaving our bodies out of shape.

From 1982 to 2003, a University of South Carolina research study followed 7,744 men age 20 and older without any cardiovascular problems at the start of the study to document the number of hours they watched television and drove their cars. Those reporting spending over 10 hours a week driving in a car and 13-plus hours watching television eventually developed 64 percent greater risk of dying from cardiovascular disease.

The average American spends 1.5 hours a day driving and three-plus hours staring at television and computer screens daily!

If we have become a sedentary society, then what keeps our minds and bodies moving from one task to another? The stress hormone cortisol, a steroid hormone made from cholesterol.

Getting older, cortisol continues to rise and increases our need for glucose (sugar/carbs) to fuel our bodies and brains. Whenever glucose levels rise in the body, the pancreas goes to work to make enough insulin to carry this fuel to our brains and muscles.

In order to wake up and be ready to "drive your cars and stare at screens," many start their mornings drinking sweetened caffeinated energy drinks and hi-carb breakfast treats, which force insulin levels to rise very quickly. Later in the afternoon, you may notice yourself "crashing" - needing another boost of caffeine, chocolate or your favorite carb treats.

Repeating this daily pattern of high-sugar / caffeine intake puts the body in a constant battle of raising insulin / cortisol levels.

Under this constant stress, the body and brain insulin receptors become resistant. Once resistance happens, insulin receptor sites start to reject the insulin.

So the excess glucose carried on the insulin molecule returns to your liver. The liver transforms the excess glucose into fat, and this newly created fat gets stored in existing visceral fat cells around the belly and is referred to as "stubborn fat."

Making more cortisol lowers other steroid sex hormones in both men and women, including testosterone, estradiol and progesterone - all needed to keep you sane, sexy and slim.

Balancing hormones and stress is an important part of maintaining healthy weight as we age. Get your health practitioner to measure your hormone levels.

Bio-identical hormones can be safely prescribed and monitored.

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

Dr. Jan Seibert is an award-winning natural hormone researcher and a diplomat of the American Board of Anti-Aging Medicine Health Practitioners. Her specialties are hormone balancing (thyroid, adrenal, growth and sex hormones.) The above article is an excerpt from Dr. Seibert's new book, "Balance your Hormones, Balance your Life!" which will be published later this year.

The Pharmacists, Interns, and Technicians at Pacific Compounds Pharmacy work with Dr. Seibert and hundreds of other healthcare practitioners in all areas of medicine to ensure that patients receive the best medications, therapies and supplements for their individual needs. Pacific Compounds Pharmacy is fully computerized with the newest safety technologies and is out-fitted with precision compounding equipment. We work with the finest pure, FDA inspected and approved powders and all of our natural hormone powders are micronized. Our friendly and helpful staff has received specialized training in compounding and laboratory protocols.

If you have any medicinal questions, concerns or problems, please call or email to speak to a compounding Pharmacist today. We are available during business hours (or you can leave us a message after business hours and we will return your call.) We are happy to help.

We look forward to working with you and your healthcare provider to help you achieve your goal of optimum health!

Seminar: Look Better For Less!

2010-08-03T09:24:00.000-07:00

Non-Surgical Cosmetic Medicine

Presented by Dr. Barbara Rush, ND
on August 10th at 6:30pm

In this seminar, Dr. Rush will explain many of the non-surgical cosmetic procedures that are available. She has a commitment to make them affordable for more people and will talk about procedures like:

-Dysport to erase frown lines

-Dermal Fillers to correct moderate
to severe facial wrinkles

-LipoDissolve for fat reduction

-MicroNeedle techniques for scars,
stretch marks and cellulite

When: Tuesday, August 10th 6:30 to 8:00 pm

Place: Pacific Compounds Pharmacy
327 SE 3rd Avenue in Hillsboro

Price: $5.00/seat
Seats are limited and reservations are required.
Please call early to reserve your seat -
503-640-3080

Dr. Rush also specializes in:

Weight Loss
Anti-Aging Protocols
Skin Care
Acupuncture
Cleansing and Detoxifying

Come join us for an informative evening!

Introducing Dr. Bijana Devo

2010-05-24T09:03:00.000-07:00

We are pleased to announce that Dr. Bijana Devo, ND will begin seeing patients at the Pacific Compounds Pharmacy Wellness Office every Thursday beginning June 17, 2010.

Dr. Devo supports her patients in achieving greater health through education, lifestyle modification and gentle, focused interventions. Trained as a primary care physician, Dr. Devo works with patients at all levels of health to promote freedom from pain, greater energy, immunity and well-being. Dr. Devo is also a licensed acupunctuist and blends eastern medicine with western natural medicine to create deep, lasting change.

She particularly enjoys working with:

· emotional health and stress reduction

· allergies, asthma

· digestive disorders

· pain management

· healthy weight maintanence

· women's health

· endocrine/hormonal imbalances

· adjunctive cancer care, including prevention strategies and treatment support

· young adult health

· preventive care

· insomnia, fatigue, low energy

Dr. Devo's treatment offerings include

· acupuncture and Chinese herbs

· diet and lifestyle counseling

· medical nutrition using whole foods and nutritional supplements

· botanical (herbal) medicine

· energetic medicine, including biotherapeutic drainage, flower essences, homeopathy, cell salts

· hydrotherapy

· women's health including annual gynecological exams and general health screenings.

Personal Background

Dr. Bijana Devo was raised in the mid-West, where her love of the biological sciences developed through close association with nature. She graduated Cum laude in Biology and Psychology from Kalamazoo College. After a brief internship with Pharmacia, Dr. Devo developed a strong interest in natural healing methods and moved to Portland to pursue further studies. She has since received her masters in Acupuncture and a doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine from National College of Natural Medicine (NCNM) where she did an extensive internship in women’s health. When not engaged in professional pursuits, Dr. Devo enjoys expanding her knowledge of foods and skills in the kitchen, traveling near and far and getting outdoors with her partner and their canine companion.

Having Trouble Filling Your Thyroid Prescription?

2010-01-15T12:20:00.001-08:00

Many patients are finding that their thyroid medication is on back-order and have been unable to fill their prescriptions. Armour Thyroid, Natur-throid and Westhroid have all been on back -order for several months. Some patients have beeen switched over to Synthroid during this shortage, but not all of them do as well on a preparation that contains only T4 thyroid hormone, unlike the others which contain both T3 and T4.

But there is good news! A compounding pharmacy can prepare thyroid medications for you. Through compounding pharmacy, you have three choices of thyroid medications:

Compounded Desiccated Thyroid:

Our compounding pharmacy has a large supply of pure desiccated thyroid powder. We use this to formulate thyroid medications with the same components as the commercially available medicines. And compounded thyroid medications can be made in whatever strength the doctor orders for the patient. The strengths we can provide are not limited like the commercial brands are. This way, each thyroid medication can be individualized to the patient's exact needs.

Compounded Plant-Based T4 and T3:

We can also compound T3 and T4 separately or combine them in any ratio the doctor orders. An added advantage is that we can make T3 and T4 in sustained-release form.

Mixtures of Desiccated Thyroid with T3 and T4:

As a third option, we can combine desiccated thyroid with plant-based T3 and/or T4 all into one capsule and these can be formulated as immediate or sustained-release. This gives the prescriber yet another option to help find the dosage, and dosage form, that works best for the patient.

So, there are lots of choices to replace your thyroid hormones. Desiccated thyroid matches Armour, Natur-throid and Westhroid. Plant-based T3 and T4 matches Cytomel and Synthroid. Or, you can have mixtures of all these and the best part is that they can be customized to the exact strength you need. No more cutting pills or trying to remember to take different quantities of pills on alternating days and they can all be made sustained-release for you.

If you'd like more information about thyroid medications, please call the pharmacy at 503-640-3080.

Happy New Year!

2010-01-11T15:51:00.000-08:00

Thank you to all the wonderful folks who made 2009 a very wonderful year for all of us here at Pacific Compounds Pharmacy. It has been an honor getting to know you and very rewarding for us to be able to help you.

Do you have any New Years' resolutions you'd like help with, like losing weight, quitting smoking, or some other health concern? If so, look down our list of upcoming seminars over to the right of this article to see if we have a seminar that addresses your concern. If not, please give us a call and we'll be happy to work with you one on one to achieve your health needs!

Happy, Healthy New Year!
from the staff at Pacific Compounds Pharmacy

Ladies Night Out! - Menopausibilities

2009-10-30T12:07:00.000-07:00

Menopausibilities at the MAC!

The Conversation for Women continues . . .
November 5, 2009 from 5-10 pm.

Don't miss this event!

Click here for the details.....

Chronic Fatigue: The Whole World Starts at 3 PM

2009-10-29T09:33:00.000-07:00

Don't let Chronic Fatigue ruin your Holiday Season! Come learn what it is and how to resolve it......

There seems to be a lot of controversy surrounding the existence of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Many doctors refuse to even diagnose the condition while others believe there is a virus to blame. In this one hour presentation, Dr. Arcoma Gonzalez will demystify the controversy of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome into a very practical workable treatment and management briefing. The symptoms of unrelenting fatigue, trouble with concentration, sore throat; tender lymph nodes; muscle pain; multi-joint pain; dizziness, and problems with balance do not need to rule your life anymore. The answer for most people is not Prozac, but a life balancing strategy that can support the biochemical component as well as the specific needs of the individual. Explore with Dr. Arcoma Gonzalez, the practical steps on the path of balance and of regaining the freedom that you deserve.

This seminar will be held at Pacific Compounds Pharmacy.

When: Wednesday, November 11th at 7:00pm
Where: 327 SE 3rd Avenue, Hillsboro
Guest Speaker: Dr. Arcoma Gonzalez
Cost: $10.00

Please call 503-640-3080 or come by and reserve your seat early, seating is limited.

What To Do About The Flu?

2009-10-20T09:41:00.000-07:00

Are you prepared for the coming attack of the H1N1 virus?

In early October, the Centers for Disease Control began shipping the H1N1 vaccine across the nation. About 251 million doses will be used to protect the masses. Many reading this article may be anxiously waiting your turn to receive one. Others skeptical about whether getting this vaccine is a good idea.

For now, the best defenses are washing your hands frequently, disinfecting cell phones, door handles, and office pens. Don’t forget getting plenty of rest and exercise, and sneezing or coughing in your sleeve. However, the best defense truly lies with building a strong immune system.

You can look in your kitchen for help. That’s right – foods can be a great way to boost your immune system, keeping you healthy. Here are a few helpful tips this season to naturally strengthen you and your loved one’s immune system.

Dr. Seibert’s A through Z nutrient tips:

Vitamin A/Beta Carotene- Helps boost Natural Killer (NK) cells used as first line of defense to kill virus infected cells. Foods: carrots, pumpkin, squash, sweet potatoes, yams.

Vitamin C – Strengthens white blood cells for fighting infection. Lowers histamine levels that cause nasal congestion. Foods: broccoli, brussel sprouts, jicama, mango, oranges, papaya.

Homemade Chicken Soup - Contains natural chemical, acetylcysteine - helps thin mucous in lungs making it easier to expel. Remember to add lots of veggies – all colorful along with warming spices below– ginger, garlic, red pepper, tumeric.

Vitamin D3 – Research now shows D3 helps immune system fight off virus attacks. Best to supplement up to 5000 IUs daily during winter season.

Horseradish Root - Mucous moving foods known as mucokinectic agent - releases waves of fluids that make eyes water and noses run. Helps break up congestion in sinus and lung bronchial passages.

Garlic – Increases NK cells. Contains alliin – gives garlic its flavor and helps regulate mucous flow.

Ginger – Destroys influenza viruses.

Omega 3 – Halts inflammatory cytokines that create fever, headaches, body pains. Foods: flaxseeds, halibut, salmon, walnuts.

Quercitin – Prevents virus from multiplying and blocks histamine. Foods: apples, capers, onions, red grapes, tea.

Hot Red Peppers – Mucokinectic agent –contains chemical resembling guaifenesin – used in cough formulas without side effects! Drink 10-20 drops of Tabasco sauce in water per day will do the trick.

Shiitake Mushrooms – Boost immunity – antiviral.

Tumeric – Blocks virus from entering your respiratory system-so H1N1 can’t replicate. Foods: curry powders, mustard.

Yogurt – Increases NK cell activity, revs up antibodies. 1-2 cups daily.

Zinc – Deficiency seen in elderly and those with weak immune systems. Foods: oysters, raw pumpkin seeds, yogurt.

So don’t delay- get to your grocery store and stock up with these wonderful foods that provide the best offense to the flu!

Stay Well,
Dr. Seibert

If you cannot get enough of these foods in your diet, supplements will help to make sure you're getting all these vitamins and nutrients. Pacific Compounds Pharmacy carries many of these supplements and Pharmacist Natalie Gustafson is there to advise you. Please stop in and ask her how to protect yourself from the flu, she's there to help!

Weight Loss and Hormone Balance Seminar

2009-10-09T11:48:00.000-07:00

Weight Loss Seminar -
Are Your Hormones Making You Fat?

Learn how hormone balance plays a crucial role in weight loss. Balancing your hormones can help you on the road to a slimmer you!

Wednesday, October 14th At 7:00 pm
At Pacific Compounds Pharmacy

Featured Speaker: Dr. Crystal Hannan
of the
In Health Naturopathic Clinic

This seminar will cover the reasons why you may be gaining weight or suffering with some of the other symptoms of hormone deficiency. Dr. Hannan will lay out some simple, easy steps that you can take to get your weight back under control.

Seats are limited and reservations are required. Please call early to reserve your seat - 503-640-3080.
Price is FREE! The length of the seminar is approximately 90 minutes and the doctor will have a question and answer period after. One lucky seminar attendee will get a free copy of the Sonoma Diet book.

Measuring Your Hormone Cream From a Dispensing Tube

2009-09-16T21:43:00.000-07:00

Measuring Your Hormone Cream From a Dispensing Jar

2009-09-16T21:04:00.000-07:00

Important information for MS sufferers from an MS sufferer

2009-09-03T14:21:00.000-07:00

I have suffered for over 12 years with MS and recently needed to retire. I am currently on Tysabri to control the progression of my MS. I’m diagnosed with Primary Progressive now and was slowly giving up my life to MS. Recently my doctor prescribed a drug called 4-Aminopyridine (4-AP for short). This drug has given me a great deal of my life back.

I suffered with a great deal of leg spasticity, balance problems and weakness. I was also always fatigued and was extremely sensitive to heat. I was a shut in and moody all the time. Now the good news, 4-AP started working after only 3-4 dosages. It was a miracle in my opinion.

It works by improving the signals to the muscles and also reduced my fatigue and heat sensitivity. My balance improved greatly and I started being able to easily move again. 4-AP is not new but getting some attention now because a sustained release version is being tested and released shortly under the name Fampridine by a large pharmaceutical company. For any MS sufferer there is no need to wait because it is immediately available with a doctors' prescription in the 4-AP immediate release form.

There is good science behind how this drug works and it has been used for years on MS patients as well as patients with spinal cord injuries. It helps to reconnect the nerves' communication and greatly improves their nerve sensitivity and conductivity. This drug has been used for over 20 years. I have recommended it to every MS friend I know and 100% of the ones who have tried it had major improvement with it and now swear by it.

I have also been able to stop taking Baclofen and my spasticity and walking speed measured by my physical therapist has improved 25%. Stopping Baclofen has also helped my fatigue and tired symptoms caused as a side effect of it. Neurological tests done by my neurologist have also improved greatly. Many MS sufferers take so much Baclofen they need to take Provigil to help them stay awake. Once you're on 4-AP you may not need or can reduce these types of drugs.

I started taking a second drug called LDN (Low Dose Naltrexone) recently and have improved even more. This drug took about 9 days to start seeing an improvement. I can now do things I have not been able to do for years.

These drugs are not cures. These medications will simply and effectively improve your symptoms and improve your quality of life. MS is something you and I live with every day. I’m happy to convey my experience to anyone interested. These 2 drugs are easy to swallow pills and are both relatively cheap (about $1 per day each).

Please take control of your life and your symptoms and get your doctor to prescribe at least 4-AP as soon as you can. You should know within 3-4 dosages if it is working for you and as you slowly increase the dosage as prescribed you will also be telling all your MS friends to take this drug as soon as possible. You may need to persuade your doctors to prescribe them because there are no large pharmaceutical companies behind them. Some doctors will ask you to wait for Fampridine. This is easy for a doctor who does not live with MS to ask, but relief is available immediately so there's no need to wait.

Here is how I measure my improvements and quality of life on these drugs. I’m now 54 and compared to last summer my bad days now are what used to be my good days a year ago. My good days now are so good and full of activity that I am constantly on the go and they far outnumber my bad days. I can now tolerate the sun on a hot day. I work out 2 times a week with no pain. What used to be impossible is now easier and I can do it now. What was hard to do is now easy. My physical envelope has doubled or tripled in size. I find the more I can do the better mental attitude I get from it. I’m now really building core muscle and strength.

Do I still have MS? Yes, but now if you ask my family they will tell you Dad's doing great and we have Dad back. He wants to participate now with the family. I travel now and I want to get out of the house. It has really helped my marriage. These drugs are unfortunately unpatentable and therefore large pharmaceutical companies have no interest in them as well as most doctors know little about them. I find this almost criminal that a drug like this is not used more and more widely known about. This means information must be spread by us, the MS sufferers, until the MS society or government no longer can ignore this type of drug.

I urge you to get better fast and start enjoying your life more. For more information search them on the web (LDN) (4AP) and read lots of positive information that other MS patients are saying worldwide. If you wish more communication or have more questions you can contact me through the good people at Pacific Compounds Pharmacy.
It is now up to you to get back your life.

R.M. - Hillsboro

Fibromyalgia - Seven Steps Out Of Pain

2009-09-02T15:39:00.000-07:00

This seminar on Fibromyalgia and Chronic Pain will be presented by Dr. Arcoma Gonzalez on Wednesday, September 16th at 7pm at Pacific Compounds Pharmacy. She will give us an hour of information and then will stay to answer any questions you may have. Please come join us and learn how to get rid of the pain!

Do you suffer from chronic pain in many places all over your body? If you have pain, fatigue, fibrofog, restlessness, poor sleep, hypersensitivities to smells, allergies, and weight concerns, then this one hour presentation will answer a lot of questions about how and why these symptoms occur. There are many theories as to the causes of fibromyalgia, but anyone who suffers with these symptoms has an entirely different view of the disease than the researchers. Dr. Gonzalez Lambert will shed some light on the body systems affected, the ways to treat this ever changing condition, and useful tips on how to keep your insurance coverage. This one hour presentation is practical, entertaining, and informative so that you can get back to living your life.

Cost is $10.00 per seat if reserved ahead, or $15.00 at the door. You can call and make reservations at
503-640-3080. We look forward to seeing you there!

New Therapy for Auto-Immune Diseases

2009-06-08T08:59:00.000-07:00

Dr. Jan Seibert will be the guest speaker here at Pacific Compounds Pharmacy on Wednesday, Aug. 19th at 7:00 pm and she will share with us the promise of Low Dose Naltrexone therapy for atuo-immune diseases. So, if you or a loved one have:

Allergies
Alzhiemer's
Autism
Behcet's disease
Cancer (various types)
Chronic Fatigue
Colitis
COPD
CREST syndrome
Crohn's Disease
Eczema
Emphysema
Endometriosis
Fibromyalgia
Hepatitis
Herpes
HIV Infection
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Lou Gehrig's Disease
Lupus
Lyme Disease
Multiple Sclerosis
Neuropathy (including Chemo induced neuropathy)
Parkinson's Disease
Polycystic Ovaries
Premenstrual Syndrome
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Thyroid Auto-immune Disease
Wegener's Granulomatosis
Pemphigoid
Primary lateral sclerosis
Psoriasis
Sarcoidosis
Scleroderma
Transverse myelitis or any other auto-immune disease you'll want to attend this seminar and see what all these diseases have in common! And you'll want to learn about the promise of Low Dose Naltrexone therapy.

Cost to attend the seminar is $10.00 per person or $15.00 per couple and reservations (which are required) can be made by calling:
503-640-3080

Come Hear About The Natural Hormone Replacement Used By Suzanne Somers

2009-05-27T11:20:00.000-07:00

This seminar for the public will be held on Wednesday, June 17th at 7:00pm and the cost is $15.00/seat.
The guest speakers will be Dr. Rebecca Provorse and Dr. Anne Hill.
Seminar location: Pacific Compounds Pharmacy
327 SE 3rd Avenue
Hillsboro, OR

Dr. Provorse and Dr. Hill will present the Wiley Protocol, an approach to hormone replacement that mimics the body's natural cycle, and the same natural hormone replacement used by Suzanne Somers. Unlike replacement regimens which deliver the same dose of hormones each day (birth control pills, most topical creams, most thyroid prescriptions), this "biomimetic" system attempts to replicate the beautifully complex process of the endocrine system. By varying the amount of hormones over the course of a lunar/monthly cycle, one can more accurately restore hormones to their natural, wave-like rhythms. This seminar will address hormone replacement for both women AND men.

One lucky seminar attendee will win a free copy of T.S. Wiley's "Sex, Lies and Menopause."
To reserve a seat for this seminar, please call
503-640-3080.

Dr. Rebecca Provorse is a naturopathic physician in private practice in Portland, Oregon. Her practice focus is on women's health, endocrinology, digestive health, and mental health. She is a graduate of the National College of Natural Medicine and has been in practice for 5 years.

Dr. Provorse believes in patient education and empowerment. She works closely with her patients as a primary care provider or healthcare ally to ensure they have what they need to make informed choices about their health. In addition to hormone replacement, she utilizes nutrition, botanical medicine, acupuncture, and hydrotherapy as treatment modalities in her practice.

Dr. Rebecca Provorse
Glow. Healthcare for Women
1435 NW 23rd Ave, Ste 102
Portland, OR 97210
(503)222-1865

You can find more information about Dr. Provorse and her practice by visiting her website: http://www.glowhealthcare.com/

Dr. Anne Hill
Rising Tide Medicine
(503)313-3605

You can see more about Dr. Hill and her practice at her website:
http://www.risingtidemedicine.com/

The King of Your Body - The Thyroid Gland

2009-03-24T14:53:00.000-07:00

Throid Seminar hosted by Pacific Compounds Pharmacy and presented by Dr. Arcoma Gonzalez

Do you suffer with any of the following symptoms?

Fatigue
Low Libido
Weight Gain
Foggy Thinking
Depression
Sleep Difficulties
Aches and Pains
Infertility
Anxiety
Dry Skin
Headaches
Heart Palpitations
Constipation
Cold Hands and Feet
Thinning Hair
Brittle Nails
Feeling Cold All The Time
Elevated Cholesterol
Menstrual Irregularities
Inability To Lose Weight

If so, it could be your thyroid.

In a one hour presentation, Dr. Gonzalez Lambert will focus upon the nature of the thyroid gland and how its physiology affects every cell in the body. Many physicians miss the often confusing array of symptoms throughout the body, such as with weight gain, dry skin, hair loss or breakage, constipation, lethargy, mental fog, and low libido because of so-called "normal" blood levels of TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone). The hidden cause of these confusing symptoms only reveals itself with a closer look at the hormones of the thyroid itself, T3 and T4, and what even suboptimal thyroid levels mean. Explore with Dr. Gonzalez Lambert the various effects thyroid dysfunction. Dr. Gonzalez Lambert will give you the treatment answers that you crave and put you on the path to quenching your hunger.

This presentation will be held at Pacific Compounds Pharmacy on April 15th at 7:00pm. The price is $15.00/seat and reservations are required. To reserve your seat, please call the pharmacy at 503-640-3080.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Biomimetic Hormone Seminar - The Wiley Protocol

2009-02-23T10:37:00.000-08:00

Dr. Provorse will present the Wiley Protocol, an approach to hormone replacement that mimics the body's natural cycle. Unlike replacment regimens which deliver the same dose of hormones each day (birth control pills, most topical creams, most thyroid prescriptions), this "biomimetic" system attempts to replicate the beautifully complex process of the endocrine system. By varying the amount of hormones over the course of a lunar/monthly cycle, one can more accurately restore hormones to their natural, wave-like rhythms.

This seminar will be hosted by Pacific Compounds Pharmacy which is a Registered Provider of The Wiley Protocol, a compounded natural, topical hormone regimen. The seminar will be held at Pacific Compounds Pharmacy at 7:00 pm on Wednesday, April 1st, 2009. The price to attend is $15.00, reservations are required and may be made by calling: 503-640-3080. A FREE copy of T. S. Wiley's book "Sex, Lies and Menopause" will be given to one lucky attendee of this seminar.

Dr. Rebecca Provorse is a naturopathic physician in private practice in Portland, Oregon. Her interest in women's health began in undergraduate school, where she studied biology and anthropology and was a member of Asklepiads (a pre-medical honor society).

In medical school she worked for three years under the tutelage of a women's health expert. In 2004, Dr. Provorse graduated from the National College of Natural Medicine (NCNM) in Portland with a master's degree in Oriental Medicine and a doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine. After completing her board exams, Dr. Provorse spent six months studying bio-identical hormone replacement in the clinical practice of another colleague. In 2005 she began her own private practice in NW Portland. Her business, Glow. Healthcare for Women, LLC, has a focus of natural healthcare for females: puberty through menopause. Her interest is in endocrine disorders. Dr. Provorse began providing the Wiley Protocol to her patients in 2006, where--for some time-- she was the only WP practitioner in the state of Oregon.

Dr. Provorse believes in patient education and empowerment. She works closely with her patients as a primary care provider or healthcare ally to ensure they have what they need to make informed choices about their health. In addition to hormone replacement, she utilizes nutrition, botanical medicine, acupuncture and hydrotherapy as treatment modalities in her practice.

You can find more information about Dr. Provorse and her practice by visiting her webisite: http://www.glowhealthcare.com/

Get 2 FREE tickets to a Blazer Game

2009-02-10T13:45:00.000-08:00

Pacific Compounds Pharmacy is hosting a Men's Health Seminar on March 11th at 7pm. One lucky attendee of this seminar will win 2 FREE tickets to the March 13th Blazer Game.

In this 1 hour presentation Dr. Jennifer Mlnarik, N.D. of Blossoming Health Naturopathic Clinic will focus on the prevention and treatment of many of the most common health issues affecting men. Foot fungus/jock itch, hemorrhoids, hair loss, prostate health, heart burn, and other issues will be addressed. Also, learn how low testosterone levels could be impacting your energy level, mental acuity, and sex drive. Low testosterone has also been associated with cardiovascular disease, type II diabetes, and erectile dysfunction. Dr. Mlnarik is looking forward to giving you concrete information on how to prevent and treat these health issues.

This presentation is open to both men and women. The price is 15.00 per seat or 25.00 per couple. Reservations are required - please call 503-640-3080 to reserve your seat.

Dr. Jan Seibert - Study on Bio-Identical Hormones

2009-02-10T09:58:00.000-08:00

Since my bio-identical hormone study was covered in the media back in 2006, why do so many women and men continue to struggle with hormonal imbalances that can lead to aging and chronic diseases - hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes, hypothyroidism, memory problems, vaginal dryness, enlarged prostate, weight gain, depression, and more?

View the study.

The purpose of my study was to rally the medical research community and pharmaceutical companies who make FDA approved bio-identical hormones to embark on long-term bio-identical hormone studies. The claims made by the FDA, the medical community, and the pharmaceutical industry that these types of hormones have no long term studies - well the environment is ripe to do something about this gap in researching safety information for long-term usage.

Must we have to rely on Oprah to open the doors by bringing on television medical experts to educate the public on their hormonal health and bio-identical hormone options? Oprah viewers are now demanding that their hormones be measured and that they be treated for their symptoms. The medical profession owes it to the public to sort out this gap of research information for all, including the 50 million women who will be in menopause by 2010.

What about the needs of men - who is looking after their hormonal needs? Has the doping scandal in major league baseball closed the door on the low testosterone issue facing 1 in every 4 men over the age of 30?

We need to balance the hormones of both women and men as they age. After all, if hormones cause cancer, then women and men under the age of 30 who have the highest levels of sex hormones should be the ones having the highest rates of breast, ovarian, uterine, and prostate cancers.

A change is needed in our current medical treatment model- focusing on prevention of hormonal imbalances. The laboratory technology is available and needs to look at tighter ranges of hormone levels based on age levels. In other words, women in their twenties who show low levels of progesterone in the second half of their menstrual cycles may need bio-identical hormones to balance their deficiencies.

So be your own health care advocate. To have your voices heard - speak up - to your doctor -ask for your hormones to be tested and treated for symptoms with ongoing monitoring; to your medical insurance company to provide coverage for regular hormone testing and prescription compounded bio-identical hormones in appropriate dosages and delivery systems to meet your needs; to your elected government officials to halt the FDA from taking away your compounded bio-identical hormones.

Dr. Jan Seibert

Dr. Miller Picks Up Where OPRAH Left Off.....

2009-01-23T10:08:00.000-08:00

Bio-Identical Hormone Seminar :
Are You Out Of Balance?

Are you overweight
and putting on more
belly fat?
Do you sleep poorly?
Have less interest in sex?
Crave sugar and/or salt?
Do you feel tired but wired?
Depressed? Have thinning hair?

If so, you are not alone. In fact, this is how most Americans feel, because we are living out of harmony with our natural
biological rhythms – and our hormones are all over the place. The stress, sex and thyroid hormones and insulin are usually the culprits.

When: February 25th At 7:00 pm
Where: Pacific Compounds Pharmacy
327 SE 3rd Avenue in Hillsboro

Guest Speaker:
Dr. Gerald Miller, MD
Family Practice Medicine in Beaverton

One lucky attendee of this seminar will win a FREE Saliva Test panel to check their sex hormone levels (a $180.00 Value!)

Seats are $15.00 and reservations are required.
Please call early to reserve your seat - 503-640-3080.

Don't Miss The Oprah Show On January 29th!

2009-01-19T09:26:00.000-08:00

The January 29th episode of the Oprah Winfrey Show will highlight Suzanne Somers and her use of Bio-Identical hormones and Dr. Frank Oz who will visit a compounding pharmacy that makes Bio-Identical hormones. The segment will include a demonstration of how Bio-Identical hormones are prepared.

This show will be very informative for any of you that are using or considering the use of Bio-Identical hormones, so be sure to tune in or record it! You can visit this link to verify when the show will air in your area.

Our compounding pharmacists are also available to answer any questions you may have. Just give us a call at: 503-640-3080 or email: info@pacificcompounds.com

Bio-Identical Hormones Star On The Oprah Winfrey Show

2009-01-16T09:32:00.000-08:00

Menopause can be a confusing time. Oprah Winfrey did all women a great service when she invited Dr. Christiane Northrup onto her show to discuss menopause and what it all means. If you missed the show, you can click on the link below to see some of the segments.

Should You Replace Your Hormones?

Tired of being Overweight?

2009-01-15T09:41:00.000-08:00

Weight loss tips for a new you!

Article written and contributed by:
Dr. Jan Seibert

In the January 2009 issue of O Magazine, Oprah Winfrey described her personal lifelong struggle with her weight. After celebrating her 53rd birthday, Oprah began having health problems. She shared with millions of fans that she couldn't sleep at night and began having heart palpitations and some leg swelling. Her personal doctor advised her to reduce her intake of salt. She knew that it wasn't salt. She was prescribed blood pressure and heart palpitation medications.

Doctors didn't recognize that Oprah had a thyroid problem, but many of her viewers did. She stated that, "nobody showed me the fan e-mails until I started talking about this, but I had e-mails from viewers saying, 'Tell Oprah to check her thyroid because I think she has a thyroid problem’.

The thyroid gland is a butterfly shaped gland located at the base of the neck, just below the Adam’s apple. The thyroid gland weighs less than an ounce but has an enormous impact on a person’s health. Every aspect of metabolism from heart rate to how quickly calories are burned is regulated by thyroid hormones.

Finally diagnosed with hypothyroidism, Oprah was placed on thyroid medication to address her problem. Once she received this diagnosis, that her metabolism wasn't working right, she fell into the mindset that everything she ate was going to make her fat anyway, so she decided to eat whatever she wanted. Then came the reality, she gained a total of 40 pounds, with her weight climbing as high as 200 pounds.

Oprah’s story is not unique. Many men and women are finding pounds slowly creeping onto their bodies – an average of 2 to 5 pounds a year. Others find themselves gaining 10 or 20+ pounds in a year. After a decade, you will have gained 20 to 50 pounds! With this amount of weight gain, many health consequences like heart disease, Type II diabetes, high cholesterol, acid reflux, arthritis, and even cancers can develop.

Imagine how your body must feel as you carry that extra twenty-pounds - like a giant sack of potatoes - all day long. This extra weight prevents you from doing the things you once did with ease, even making routine exercise more difficult. A lack of movement can lead to fatigue and feelings of depression. It’s no wonder that many turn to antidepressants, alcohol and caffeinated stimulants.

The real issue is balancing your life by making a commitment to address the core issues behind your weight gain. If you are an emotional eater, identify issues needing to be addressed that cause you to eat without self-control. For stress eaters, look at areas that trigger your stress and work on coping strategies other than using food.

Begin each day with a nutritious breakfast – consisting of high quality proteins – egg white omelets, lentils, beans, or low calorie smoothies to name a few. Avoid those sweet rolls, soft drinks, and 500 calories caffeinated specialty coffees. Make gradual changes to your diet and watch your portion sizes.

Read food labels when shopping. If the first four ingredients on the label have high fructose corn syrup, processed sugars or refined grains – leave these foods on the grocery shelves. Use whole grains instead of white bread, white rice. Increase fiber gradually.

Start planning a menu for each day of the week and try to stay around 1,900-2,200 calories per day – depending on your level of exercise. Try to eliminate 100-200 calories per day by cutting out high fat dairy, processed fats, and fried foods. Watch your alcohol intake including artificial sweeteners and soft drinks –the “empty calories” culprits. These items rob your body of important nutrients – minerals, vitamins, and fiber - needed to satisfy your body’s hunger.

Finally, go to your doctor and get a blood test to check your thyroid gland. If your lab results are in the “normal range” and you are suffering symptoms, you still may need to be treated. Find a doctor who will listen and work with you. Be your own smart health consumer and make a daily commitment to shedding those extra pounds in 2009!

Dr. Jan Seibert
Hormone Rejuvenation Center
2187 SW Main Street #103
Portland, OR 97205
503-477-9340

Dr. Seibert also sees patients at the Pacific Compounds Pharmacy wellness office every Wednesday. Please call 503-477-9340 to schedule an appointment.

Get a FREE Copy of the Sonoma Diet Book

2009-01-12T11:56:00.000-08:00

Come learn how hormone balance plays a crucial role in weight loss. Balancing your hormones can help you on the road to a slimmer you!

We have scheduled our first 2009 Seminar here at Pacific Compounds Pharmacy. It will be held Wednesday, January 21st at 7pm. Dr. Crystal Hannan from the In Health Naturopathic Medicine Clinic will be the speaker and she will discuss how hormone imbalance can lead to frustrating weight gain. She will also discuss The Sonoma Diet which she not only recommends, but uses herself. And each attendee of this seminar will receive a FREE copy of The Sonoma Diet book! (A $25.00 value)

Reserve your seat early as space is limited. Seats are $15.00 and you can make your reservation by calling the pharmacy at 503-640-3080.

Better Sex: The Natural Way To Enhance Intimacy

2008-12-30T12:39:00.000-08:00

If you think that life, as well as sex, is over after a certain age...then this information is for you. Dr. Gonzalez Lambert will focus on the matter of how physical changes might affect you and the way that it may affect your intimate life. Many symptoms of menopause, andropause, high blood pressure, diabetes, and other conditions can have an effect on your energy and joie de vivre as time goes on. Learn how you can enhance your lifestyle, forestall these changes from happening, and keep optimal intimacy as long as possible. Explore with Dr. Gonzalez Lambert the natural ways to enhance your energy, intimacy, and balance your lifestyle.

This seminar will be held at Pacific Compounds Pharmacy on Wednesday, February 4th at 7:00 pm. There are 24 seats available. Please call the pharmacy at 503-640-3080 to reserve your seat early. The cost is $15.00 per seat.

Dr. Arcoma Gonzalez will lead this seminar. She is a Naturopathic Physician practicing at The Blossoming Health Naturopathic Clinic in Forest Grove.
She specializes in Cardiology, Natural Hormone Replacement and Anti-Aging Medicine.

Please call or email Pacific Compounds Pharmacy if you would like more information.
Phone: 503-640-3080
Email: info@pacificcompounds.com

Healthy New Year!

2008-12-30T12:04:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year when we're all making our resolutions to improve our health and our lives. Maybe you want to quit smoking, lose weight, balance your hormones, lower your blood sugar or your blood pressure, exercise more.....

Whatever your resolution is, feel free to come in and consult with one of our compounding pharmacists. They may be able to help you achieve your goals or at least point you in the right direction!

We have a full line of vitamins and nutritional supplements. We can also tell you about compounded and natural medications that may be just what you need to get you on the road to better health.

Wishing you a Happy, Healthy New Year!
The Staff of Pacific Compounds Pharmacy

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-19T16:42:00.000-08:00

The staff at Pacific Compounds Pharmacy would like to sincerely wish each and every one of you the merriest Christmas and a Happy, Healthy New year!

Are Your Hormones Making You Fat?

2008-12-04T08:44:00.000-08:00

Come learn how hormone balance plays a crucial role in weight loss. Balancing your hormones can help you on the road to a slimmer you!

We have scheduled our first 2009 Seminar here at Pacific Compounds Pharmacy. It will be held Wednesday, January 21st at 7pm. Dr. Crystal Hannan from the In Health Naturopathic Medicine Clinic will be the speaker and she will discuss how hormone imbalance can lead to frustrating weight gain.

Reserve your seat early as space is limited. Seats are $15.00 and you can make your reservation by calling the pharmacy at 503-640-3080.

2009 Seminar Schedule to be Posted Soon

2008-12-01T10:14:00.000-08:00

Pacific Compounds Pharmacy offers seminars on current health topics throughout the year. We are currently working with doctors and other providers to put together a schedule for the first quarter of 2009.

All upcoming seminars scheduled at Pacific Compounds Pharmacy are posted here and on our website at: www.pacificcompounds.com.

If you would like to hear about a particular health topic, but do not see it listed in our schedule, please contact us at: info@pacificcompounds.com and let us know. We will make every effort to accomodate requests.

Compounded Wart Treatment Options

2008-11-24T16:17:00.000-08:00

Warts are growths caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV) and can occur anywhere on the body. Up to 10% of the population is affected by warts. Though typically benign, they can be transmitted by direct or indirect contact to other parts of the body or to other people. While about 40% will spontaneously regress within two years, warts are unsightly, sometimes painful, and can spread if left unchecked. They can be difficult to treat, but compounded medications provide a number of treatment options, such as flurouracil/glycolic acid, DNCB, podophyllum and trichloroacetic or bichloroacetic acid. If you suffer with warts, you may want to talk to your doctor about one of these treatment options:

Fluorouracil (5FU) & Glycolic Acid
5FU is an antimetabolite antineoplastic agent that hinders DNA and RNA synthesis to interrupt growth and initiate apoptosis. Glycolic acid acts as a skin peeling agent to help remove the dead cells. Common dose is 2.5-5% 5FU and 25-50% glycolic acid in an ointment base applied by toothpick or cotton swab twice daily, then covered with duct tape, with a follow-up visit in two weeks. 5FU should not be used by pregnant women.

Dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB)
DNCB works as a contact sensitizer, inducing the body’s immune system to attack the wart. Efficacy rates in small trials have been 80%, compared to placebo at 38%. Some patients require multiple applications to become sensitive to DNCB. Common dose is 1% DNCB ointment applied by toothpick or cotton swab once with a follow-up visit in two weeks. If there is an insufficient reaction, a second application can be applied two weeks after first, with subsequent applications once weekly thereafter. A higher concentration may be necessary for plantar warts. DNCB should not be used by pregnant women.

Podophyllum Resin
Podophyllum resin is a cytotoxic agent that prevents mitosis in dividing cells. It is used mostly to remove genital warts. Efficacy is between 45-77% of people treated. Common dose is 10-50% podophyllum in benzoin tincture, usually applied sparingly by the prescriber in office on a weekly basis. The first application should only be left on for 30-40 minutes to gauge patient sensitivity, with following applications left on for up to four hours and then removed with soap and water or alcohol to limit systemic absorption. If there is any broken skin or the patient has diabetes, is pregnant, has poor circulation or is immunocompromised, podophyllum resin should not be used as it is a caustic irritant.
Interesting fact: Podophyllum resin comes from the mayapple, a herbaceous perennial plant native to the eastern part of North America.

Trichloroacetic (TCA) or Bichloroacetic (BCA) Acid
TCA or BCA cause protein destruction in cells leading to apoptosis. They can be used to treat warts or genital warts with 60-70% efficacy, and are not absorbed systemically. Common dose is % solution, applied by prescriber in office weekly. Due to irritation at the site, TCA and BCA may not be suitable for large areas. TCA or BCA may be used by pregnant women.

All of these wart solutions are available at Pacific Compounds Pharmacy with a doctor's prescription.

Finally! A Study on Compounded Topical Hormone Creams!

2008-11-24T09:57:00.000-08:00

Hormone Creams Ease Menopause Symptoms
Study Shows Custom-Compounded Preparations May Also Boost Heart Health

We are all very excited that a study has finally been done on compounded topical hormone creams! And not only has the study been done, but we can now see the encouraging results of that study.

Charlene Laino of WebMD Health News interviewed Dr. Kenna Stephenson about the study findings. The new research suggests that these compounds "can make remarkable changes in a woman's life," says Kenna Stephenson, MD, of the University of Texas Health Science Center at Tyler. "Individualized hormonal treatments are just what women need," she tells WebMD.

Follow this link to see the full article.

With the good news this study brings, also comes the hope that larger studies will follow. And, more importantly, we hope that all hormone treatments for women will be done on an individual basis because every woman is unique. We all want this to become a high priority for the entire medical community.

Giving Thanks This Thanksgiving

2008-11-17T12:33:00.000-08:00

All of us at Pacific Compounds Pharmacy would like to express our sincerest thanks to all of our wonderful patients and customers. We truly appreciate the opportunity you've given us to get to know you and to try, in our small way, to help you in your efforts to improve your health and your lives. We are eternally grateful for the trust you have placed in us.

We would like to wish you all a very Happy Thanksgiving!

Sale Items - 50% OFF

2008-11-17T12:17:00.000-08:00

We currently have a small selection of over the counter supplements and creams on sale. They're going fast, so stop by soon before they're gone!

And The October Prize Winner Is.......

2008-10-31T15:25:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Anilise for winning our October prize drawing! She won an 8 ounce bottle of Muscle Rescue Gel. Don't forget to enter our monthly drawing the next time you're in the pharmacy.

Don't Forget To Mark This On Your Calendar!

2008-10-28T10:10:00.000-07:00

Learn the Bioidentical Hormone Secrets from the Experts:
Restore Balance, Get Back Your Energy, and Fight Disease.
Until now, this information was only available to physicians.
Now, the Experts and their Patients Speak to the Public.

Join in on this seminar from the comfort of your home!
November 10 - 25, 2008

For Details and Registration visit:
www.bhrt1.com

Saving your Sex Life – It’s not Viagra!

2008-10-22T14:09:00.000-07:00

By: Dr. Jan Seibert

With life’s pressing demands, most men and women at some point of their lives will suffer from sexual dysfunction. Media coverage focuses primarily on male erectile dysfunction. Unfortunately, so little media attention is targeted at problems facing women sexual health issues. Presently, commercial products to help women “get into the mood” are not openly advertised.

By 2010, over 50 million female baby boomers will reach the age of menopause. Most of these women will struggle with sexual health problems. The two main culprits are a drop of sex hormone produced and a lack of blood flow to the vaginal region caused by vascular conditions, such as high cholesterol, nerve damage from diabetes, and high blood pressure.

Years ago, the American Psychological Association classified female sexual problems as mental disorders and prescribed antidepressants to address these problems making the condition worse from the drug’s side effects.

Today more urologists and gynecologists treat the medical conditions causing diminished blood flow and nerve damage to the pelvic/vaginal regions.

Some of the symptoms women may experience are:

* Painful sex
* Inability to achieve orgasm
* Decreased vaginal blood flow.

Vaginal dryness is the one of the most common sexual health problem facing menopausal women. Some find relief using over the counter lubricants. However, more serious issues can be present that require a medical examination. Shrinking of the vaginal wall can affect the amount of lubrication present. Untreated, the vaginal wall can tear and bleed making sex painful. Women should have annual vaginal exams to monitor vaginal dryness.

Certain drugs affect women’s sexual health. Oral birth control pills, various blood pressure medications, and antidepressants can rob a woman’s ability to experience orgasms. If you notice a decreased interest in sex or are no longer able to achieve satisfying orgasms, check with the pharmacist to see if the medications your taking may be the culprit. Then see your doctor about other medication options.

Lifestyle choices also affect women’s sexual health. Smoking and drinking too much alcohol will definitely affect healthy blood flow to the vagina. Avid bike riders may also experience a lack of vaginal blood flow. Daily stress can create a drop in sexual interest, along with bouts of anxiety and depression. Talk with your partner about these issues and seek medical treatment, if necessary.

Remember we are living longer. So don’t let old age slow your sexual enjoyment. Lubrication is the key to avoiding discomfort or pain especially if your partner is using erectile dysfunction medications. Kegel exercises can strengthen vaginal muscle tone, making sex more satisfying for you and your partner. Finally, eating right, managing stress, and getting adequate sleep can make all the difference with “getting in the mood”.

Learn the Bioidentical Hormone Secrets from the Experts!

2008-10-22T09:12:00.000-07:00

Get Out In That Sunshine While It's Still Here

2008-10-14T10:04:00.000-07:00

Time In The Sun Is Needed for Adequate Vitamin D Production

Heart deaths, cancers, depression, insomnia, schizophrenia, osteoporosis, rickets, muscle weakness, body aches and pains, and immune system problems have all been linked to low vitamin D levels. So, it's important to know that you are getting enough Vitamin D.

Research published in the Archives of Internal Medicine, shows that people with the lowest levels of Vitamin D are more than twice as likely to die of heart disease and other causes than are people with the highest levels of Vitamin D. One of our main sources of Vitamin D is sunshine which is one reason that people who live furthest away from the equator often have the lowest levels of Vitamin D.

Other researchers found that while skin cancer rates are higher closer to the equator, death rates from all types of cancer are lower. They wrote in The Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, "the benefit of moderate sun exposure seems to outweigh the risk of skin cancers."

It is also noted that people are generally spending less time outdoors than in past years and we are also wearing sunscreens when we do go outdoors. Both of these will reduce the amount of Vitamin D we can produce from sunshine. Even if you do spend alot of time outside and don't wear sunscreen, it's impossible in the winter time to produce enough vitamin D from the sun if you live north of Atlanta, Georgia.

Deborah Kotz wrote in US News and World Report:
The government's dietary recommendations are 200 IUs a day up to age 50, 400 IUs to age 70, and 600 IUs over 70. But many experts believe that these recommendations are far too low to maintain healthful vitamin D levels. They advocate for supplementation in the winter of about 2,000 IUs per day and a dose of daily sunshine in the summer. See full article.

Chronic vitamin D deficiency can be misdiagnosed as fibromyalgia because its symptoms are very similar: muscle weakness, aches and pains.

Obese people and dark skinned people need more vitamin D.

Shocking Vitamin D deficiency statistics:
32% of doctors and med school students are vitamin D deficient.
40% of the U.S. population is vitamin D deficient.
42% of African American women of childbearing age are deficient in vitamin D.
48% of young girls (9-11 years old) are vitamin D deficient.
Up to 60% of all hospital patients are vitamin D deficient.
76% of pregnant mothers are severely vitamin D deficient, causing widespread vitamin D deficiencies in their unborn children, which predisposes them to type 1 diabetes, arthritis, multiple sclerosis and schizophrenia later in life. 81% of the children born to these mothers were deficient.
Up to 80% of nursing home patients are vitamin D deficient.

(Statistics from: The UV Advantage authored by Dr. Michael Holick)

The easiest way to get Vitamin D is sunshine, so go enjoy it while it's here!

Thermography - or Infrared Breast Exams

2008-10-09T15:37:00.000-07:00

Breast Cancer: Early Infrared Risk Detection and the Proactive Breast Wellness Programs

Ingrid Edstrom FNP, M.Ed

Several studies have shown that infrared imaging is a good, perhaps the best, method for risk assessment in breast cancer

Every middle-aged woman that I know is frightened about breast cancer. It does not just affect women, it affects families: our mothers, our partners, our children, our sisters and maternal aunts and grandmothers. Just think about the people you know who have been touched by this medical crisis. Many younger women worry, knowing how this cancer has struck older female relatives, and they wait, hoping they will not become a statistic themselves.

Some of the research suggests that your environment—what you eat, how you live, the chemicals & radiation received from “natural” surroundings and the built environment—may have a greater impact on your future health than being gifted with bad genetics. This information is heartening for it allows the possibility that there may be an educational process that will help to empower women to make dietary, lifestyle and environmental changes that may better their chances to avoid contracting the disease, thus altering current statistical projections.

Stats That Cause Us Fear:
According to the National Cancer Institute, breast cancer incidence rates increased by more than 40% from 1973 to 1998 in the US nationally. Oregon consistently ranks among the top five states for breast cancer incidence and was the third highest in 2001. The incidence of breast cancer in the US has risen during the past 30 years from 1 in 30 to 1 in 7 women during their lifetime. Agencies that track these statistics are concerned that in the next 10 years it may be 1 in 5. It would not be overstating the case to describe this as an epidemic!

One must wonder, what could be the cause for such an explosive statistical growth rate in so short a time? Here in Oregon I suspect a human-caused environmental linkage—the increased usage of the estrogen mimickers, or Xeno-Estrogens, found in the highly toxic herbicides containing Dioxin (Agent Orange-like compounds) that is routinely used by the timber industry and alongside county roads, and by well-meaning gardeners and husbands who collectively spray vast quantities of these chemicals (with brand names like Round Up and Cross Bow) upon the urban/suburban landscape. Though legal, these products have been linked to prostate cancer, miscarriages, infertility and a host of other arthritis-like issues, GERD and other symptoms and malaise problems. Risk to human health is exacerbated by other miracles of modern chemistry such as Parabins (used as a preservative in cosmetics, food, shampoo & sun screen), and the excessive amounts of estrogen (added to non-organic meat via conventional animal feed, and to Bovine Growth Hormone (BGH) found in some conventional cheese and dairy products) consumed by people in their diets. There are real and troubling health consequences to these compounds finding their way into the human food chain. [For instance, have you noticed that little 9 and 10-year old girls are developing breasts, 3-4 years ago the standard age was 13, which has been since the dawn of womanhood?]

Medical science has for decades been working on establishing the links between breast cancer and a woman’s genetic inheritance, as well as a woman’s environment. Yet, with all of that, the results are less than encouraging. According to Dr. John Lee’s book What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Breast Cancer, and How Hormone Balance Can Save Your Life, “Your risk of surviving malignant breast cancer is just about the same as it was 50 years ago, when the only treatment was mastectomy, about one in three. In other words, despite billions of dollars in research and hugely expensive and risky treatments, the conventional medical approach to breast cancer isn’t working, and talk of prevention is virtually non existent.”

One Woman’s Solution:
As a Nurse Practitioner and Health Educator, I am passionate about directing my career towards making a difference in these dreadful statistics, because these stats only represent the sanitized mask of real people’ extreme suffering. Is this preventable? Is there a way to empower women to create a more proactive approach to prevention?

For long have I been in that place of concern and worry with all my other women-sisters. More recently, I became one of those frightened women with a thickened area in my own breast and a “hot” infrared scan. I was at once terrified and energized to take action. Since I have a more Holistic approach to healthcare than most, I sought out an Infrared camera in Connecticut (two hours drive from where I lived in Western Massachusetts two years ago). I worked with a very skilled Naturopath and also did a lot of my own research. I started what I now refer to as a Proactive Breast Wellness Program (PBWP) that included an Anti-Estrogen Diet, supplements to help take the extra estrogen out of the system, more supplements to balance my hormones, and finally a course of bio-identical Progesterone. Additionally, I made a number of dietary and lifestyle changes. Thankfully, results were almost immediate. I was able to eliminate the thickened area in one month and reversed the inflammation in the course of just four months!

Following the ordeal, I felt that, if I were able to reverse these conditions once I knew I had the problem, then other women might also benefit. Since breast cancer is an inflammatory problem and breast cancers take 10-12 years to grow, it follows that the sooner one discovers a thermal shift (evidence of early inflammation), the better are the chances for survival. In other words, thermal assessment may well offer the best risk assessment tool possible, giving a woman the most time possible to alter the situation through her own PBWP. To put it another way, racing for “The Cure” is great but I am more interested in a preventive approach to this problem.
What is Infrared all about?

The 2003 article by Len Saputo, MD entitled, Beyond Mammography states: “The most devastating loss of life from breast cancer occurs between the ages of 30 to 50. Fortunately, women today have more options available to them to help in the detection of breast cancer than in past decades. Unfortunately, education and awareness of these options and their effectiveness in detecting breast cancer at different stages in life are woefully deficient.”

Breast thermography, which involves using a heat-sensing scanner to detect variations in the temperature of breast tissue, has been around since the 1960s. However, early infrared scanners were not very sensitive and were insufficiently tested before being put into clinical practice, resulting in misdiagnosed cases.

Modern-day breast thermography boasts vastly improved technology and more extensive clinical scientific research. The technology has been FDA approved since 1982 and is 100% safe with no compression or radiation. In fact, the article references data from major peer review journals and research on more than 300,000 women who have been tested using the technology, mostly in Europe. Combined with the successes in detecting breast cancer with greater accuracy than other methods, the technology is slowly gaining ground among more progressive practitioners.

Beyond Mammography concludes that “breast thermography needs to be embraced more widely by the medical community and awareness increased among women. Not only has it demonstrated a higher degree of success in identifying women with breast cancer under the age of 55 in comparison to other technologies, but it is also an effective adjunct to clinical breast exams and mammography for women over 55. Finally, it provides a non-invasive and safe detection method, and if introduced at age 25, provides a benchmark that future scans can be compared with for even greater detection accuracy.”

Infrared scans have the potential to pick up inflammatory changes months to possibly eight years prior to detectable lump formation detected by mammogram. All breast cancer is an inflammatory process and may take 10 to 12 years for a mass to develop. The research that I am currently involved in appears to show that the inflammation may be able to be reversed, if changes are detected early, when there is still time for women to balance their hormones and make dietary and lifestyle changes. In short, it is possible to alter the inflammatory process from progressing to breast disease. Recent technological advances in software and camera systems during the past four years have greatly improved the data from this functional test.

A 2002 study detailed in IEEE Engineering in Medicine & Biology, and from the Gautherie article published in the journal Cancer 1980 bears this out: Of 58,000 women imaged, 1,245 had borderline scans (all of these borderline results women had normal physical exams, mammograms, and ultrasounds and a biopsy) who showed abnormal asymmetrical infrared image of their breasts. Of this group 44% were diagnosed with breast cancer within four years. 90% of the very abnormal scans, TH4 and TH5s, were diagnosed on their first visit.

Infrared Thermography has numerous clinically proven applications, including: Risk Evaluation Screening, Adjunctive Diagnostics that work alongside x-ray mammography, MRI and ultrasound for targeting and following fast-growing cancers.

How Breast Thermograms Work:
Breast thermography measures differences in infrared heat emission from normal breast tissue, benign breast abnormalities—such as fibrocystic disease, cysts, infections and benign tumors—and from breast cancers. It does this with a high degree of sensitivity and accuracy. Breast thermography is a non-invasive measurement of the physiology of breast tissue. This technology is not meant to replace mammography or other diagnostic tests presently used in clinical practice that measure anatomical abnormalities in breast tissue. While breast cancer can only be diagnosed by tissue biopsy, breast thermography safely eliminates the need for most unnecessary biopsies as well as their associated high cost and emotional suffering, and it does so years sooner than any other test in modern medicine.

Modern infrared scanners have a thermal sensitivity of 0.05 degrees Centigrade. Because tumor tissue does not have an intact sympathetic nervous system, it cannot regulate heat loss. When the breast is cooled in a room kept at 68-70 degrees Fahrenheit, blood vessels of normal tissue respond by constricting to conserve heat while tumor tissue remains hot. Thus, tumors emit more heat than their surrounding tissues and are usually easily detected by heat-sensing infrared scanners.

Over time, cancerous tissues stay hot or become even hotter—they do not cool down. In sharp contrast, however, other possible conditions such as fibrocystic breasts, infections, and other benign disorders cool down as they resolve.

Breast thermograms have highly specific thermal patterns in each individual woman. They provide a unique “thermal signature” that remains constant over years unless there is a change in an underlying condition. Thus, over time, it is possible to differentiate between cancers and benign conditions. Based on this ability to more accurately detect cancers over time, it becomes important to have a benchmark early on in a woman’s life. For this reason, women should have breast thermography performed beginning at age 25.

This Infrared Thermography Camera system provides a painless, radiation free, low cost approach for following high-risk women with a family history or a personal history of breast cancer. This scanning tool is also useful for dense fibrocystic breasts or for women who have breast implants or have concerns about compression of the tissues in mammogram equipment. It can also be used to help assess vascular issues in the legs with diabetic neuropathy, screening for melanoma, thyroid and pain issues using heat pattern recognition.

I am available to provide “Breast Wellness” proactive, educational programs for women’s groups to empower women to make diet and life style changes to improve their health and the health of their families. Educating the Sisterhood and helping to create a better state of health for yourself and your family helps you feel that you can “Do something” that will potentially make a difference.The Proactive Breast Wellness Program will be available nationally soon as a 4 CD set with over 2 1/2 hours of narration, a data disc and a relaxation and guided imagery DVD to reduce stress and cortisol and help sleep.

Ingrid Edstrom, founder and president of IBH, is a Family Nurse Practitioner with a Masters in Health Education. Infrared Breast Health, LLC of Oregon brought this equipment to Eugene, one of only 2 such camera systems in the State. To find out more information and research articles about Infrared Thermography and Breast Wellness Programs visit: Infrared Breast Health or call our office 9am to 5pm at 541-302-2977.

Upcoming Seminars.....

2008-10-03T13:54:00.000-07:00

Many of you have probably attended one or more of our physician led seminars. We are getting ready to set up our winter seminar schedule and wanted to offer you the chance to let us know what topics you are most interested in learning about.

If you scroll down to the bottom of the page you will see some topics to choose from. If you would like to hear about a topic that isn't listed, please give us a call or comment to us on this blog with your suggestion. You can also email your suggestion to us at: info@pacificcompounds.com

Pacific Compounds Pharmacy Welcomes New Staff Members!

2008-10-03T12:14:00.001-07:00

Pacific Compounds Pharmacy has taken on some new staff members to keep up with the growing demand for customized medications.

We welcome:

Nicole Felice, CPT
Margaret Kellar, Technician
Natalie Gustafson, RPh

Please feel free to come on in and meet them, they are dedicated to serving your healthcare needs along with all the familiar faces here at Pacific Compounds.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

2008-10-03T11:22:00.000-07:00

As you probably know, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The National Breast Cancer Foundation estimates that each year, over 200,000 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer and over 40,000 die. One woman in eight either has or will develop breast cancer in her lifetime. Approximately 1,700 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer and 450 will die each year. If detected early, the five-year survival rate for breast cancer exceeds 96%.

A crucial part of early detection includes annual clinical breast exams. I encourage all of you women to schedule an annual exam and all of you to encourage the women in your lives to do the same. Women over 40 should have a mammogram every 1 to 2 years--if you haven't had yours, now is a good time to schedule one.

Thermography is an alternative to the mammogram. Some doctors offer thermography for breast cancer screening. ZRT Laboratory located in Beaverton, Oregon offers thermography screening several times each year. You may call ZRT Laboratory to inquire about their next scheduled screening time at 503-466-2445.

Forest Grove Health Fair

2008-09-30T14:07:00.000-07:00

Thanks to all who visited our booth at the Forest Grove Health Fair. We offered a full panel saliva test through ZRT Laboratory for one lucky prize drawing winner. Ann was randomly picked to recieve that saliva testing - Congratulations Ann!

If you suspect you have a hormone imbalance and would like some information on saliva testing (a simple and accurate way to measure your hormone levels) just give us a call at the pharmacy, or stop by and we'll be happy to answer any questions you may have.

Congratulations Barbara!

2008-09-30T14:06:00.000-07:00

Barbara was the winner of our September supplement drawing.

Do The Numbers Rub Off Your Syringes?

2008-09-30T13:56:00.000-07:00

We had a patient come in yesterday who passed along this great tip: she paints the numbers on the outside of her hormone measuring syringes with clear fingernail polish so that they cannot be rubbed off. Thanks for the great tip!

Also, if you find that it is difficult to get the last of your hormone creams out of the tube, tube crimpers are well worth the money. They make it possible to get to all the cream in the tube. We have them here at the pharmacy for those of you looking for one or two.

If you have any tips or suggestions that you'd like to pass along, please click on 'comments' at the end of this post.

Thanks, and have a great day!

Pediatric Compounding

2008-09-18T12:41:00.000-07:00

Bring a medicine bottle out of the cabinet and smiles may turn to tears. Kids just don’t like medicine. Sometimes there’s nothing you can do about that: there’s nothing fun about being sick, and taking medicine just makes it worse. While there’s no guarantee that taking medicine will ever become an entirely pleasurable experience, there are some ways to help. One of the best involves contemporary pharmaceutical compounding.

Compounding is the art and science of preparing customized medications for patients. Physicians working together with pharmacists are able to offer their patients the benefit of medicines tailored specifically for certain needs. This approach is especially helpful in treating children, as commercially manufactured drug forms are often not the best solutions for kids.

Working closely with our compounding pharmacist, the pediatrician can prescribe medications for pain relief, respiratory disorders, oral thrush, diabetes, head lice, diaper rash, cold sores/fever blisters, and more. Compounding can benefit patients in a variety of ways.

Taste is one reason a child will refuse to take their medicine. The compounding pharmacist can solve this problem with the dozens of flavors that are available. The flavor and color of the medication can be enhanced, while ensuring that the flavor’s pH is compatible with the medication’s properties. Children don’t mind taking medicine as much when it tastes like bubble gum or even chocolate.

Many children have a very difficult time swallowing capsules or tablets, especially if they have to take more than one medication during the day. To solve this problem, our compounding pharmacist can develop and prepare medications in alternate dosage forms that the child won’t mind taking. These include lollipops, gummy bears, syrups, suspensions,freezer pops, lozenges, transdermal gels and even pacifier dosages for infants - and all can be administered in any number of great flavors.

Every child is unique. Children vary in size and weight. Some have allergies and varying drug tolerances. As a result, it’s often a challenge to find a commercially available medication suitable for the individual needs of your patient. Our compounding pharmacist can be of great help in formulating a medication which comes in the exact dose needed for a child of a certain age and size.

If you have questions about any medications, please stop by or call the pharmacy anytime. We are happy to help!

Have You Ever Heard Of...............

2008-09-03T13:17:00.000-07:00

Natural Hormones?

Low Dose Naltrexone?

Dream Cream?

Magic Nails Antifungal?

The Wiley Protocol?

Prokarin?

These are just a few of the customized therapies we compound for our patients. We have therapies for most every condition. If you have a medical condition and are wondering if there are more options out there, or if the current therapy you are using isn't working, then give us a call and we can discuss your options with you.

Congratulations Margaret - Our August Winner!

2008-09-02T14:19:00.000-07:00

Margaret won our August supplement drawing.
Come on in to the pharmacy and enter September's drawing!

Compounding Is For Pets, Too!

2008-08-14T16:45:00.000-07:00

About 75 to 80% of the compounded medicines we formulate are for people, all the way from premature babies to palliative care for hospice patients. And the rest of the medicines we compound are for pets, zoo animals and livestock.

Have you ever tried to give your cat a pill or capsule? Would you want to make a bear or an elephant take medicine? And then there's the issue of a dose of an antibiotic for your parakeet as opposed to an antibiotic for your horse - these, of course, are vastly different doses. Mass produced one-size fits all medications cannot accomodate all the variations of doses needed for all the different types and sizes of animals. And different animals need to be given medications in different ways, different dosage forms. A capsule or a medicated, beef flavored chew treat can work great for your dog, but your finicky kitty would probably prefer a triple fish suspension or a medicated ear rub! And yes, there are ways and flavors of medicines we formulate that work great for snakes, hamsters, turtles, ferrets, birds, giraffes and all the other creatures in the animal kingdom.

So, if you have a pet that is ill, or needs supplements, just give us a call and we can help you with a medication that is custom made and flavored for your pet or livestock.

Congratulations to Sergio - Our July Winner!

2008-08-07T16:32:00.000-07:00

Sergio was the winner of our July supplement drawing.
Next time you're in the Pharmacy make sure to enter our August supplement drawing.

Upcoming Adrenal, Thyroid, Sex Hormone Seminar

2008-08-07T16:19:00.000-07:00

Do you suffer with hot flashes, night sweats, fatigue, weight gain, skin dryness, constipation, allergies? These are some of the most common symptoms of a hormone imbalance.

Dr. Arcoma Gonzalez-Lambert will be giving a one hour presentation that breaks down the symptoms of hormone imbalance into a useful and understandable format so that you can have that pep put back in your step. She will discuss the challenges that underlie these body systems and the treatment methods used to bring them back into balance.

This seminar will be held Wednesday, September 10th at 7:00 pm here at Pacific Compounds Pharmacy. Seats are $15.00 and reservations are required. The number of seats is limited, so please call in early to make your reservation. 503-640-3080.

Guest Speaker: Dr. Arcoma Gonzalez
Blossoming Health Naturopathic Clinic
Forest Grove, Oregon

Save Your Bio-Identical Hormones!

2008-08-07T15:25:00.000-07:00

Hello to all of our compounding friends,

WE NEED YOUR SUPPORT!!! The International Academy of Compounding Pharmacists is organizing a National Congressional Call-In Day on Wednesday, September 10, in an attempt to increase support for the H.Con.Res 342 and S.Con.Res. 88. These are the bills that call for the reversal of the Estriol ruling by the FDA. These resolutions are expressing the sense of Congress that the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) new policy restricting women's access to medications containing estriol does not serve the public interest. The goal is to generate an overwhelming number of calls in one single day to Capitol Hill and create awareness for house members who are not familiar with the ongoing conflict regarding the recent ruling on Estriol. There are already 50-plus Congress members co-sponsoring these bills and we would like to increase that number exponentially!

We would greatly appreciate your support on this National Call-In Day. You can go to http://www.savemybhrt.org/ and see the information they have available on this topic. This website also allows patients, pharmacists, and physicians to obtain the phone number for your specific member of Congress and talking points to guide your phone calls. Additionally, for those members of Congress who have already signed on, we can use these as "Thank You" calls.

So, please help the cause as this could only help secure the future of the entire compounding industry. Each battle won is never a small victory!

Thank you for your time and I truly hope that together, we can all make a difference.

Best Regards,

The Staff of Pacific Compounds Pharmacy