Medical Subject Headings (MeSH): Hormones, Hormone Substitutes, and Hormone Antagonists

Hormone substitutes are substances that can mimic the effects of natural hormones in the body. These substances may be used to treat conditions that result from a deficiency or imbalance of hormones. For example, thyroid hormone substitutes can be used to treat hypothyroidism, a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. Hormone substitutes can be made from natural sources, such as plant extracts, or they can be synthesized in a laboratory.

Hormone antagonists are substances that block or inhibit the action of hormones in the body. They may be used to treat conditions that result from an excess of hormones or to prevent the overproduction of hormones. For example, estrogen antagonists can be used to treat breast cancer, as they block the effects of estrogen on cancer cells. Hormone antagonists can be made from natural sources or synthesized in a laboratory.

It’s important to note that hormone substitutes and antagonists should be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional. These substances can have powerful effects on the body, and it’s important to use them with caution and according to the recommendations of a healthcare professional. If you have questions about the use of hormone substitutes or antagonists in healthcare, it’s a good idea to speak with your doctor or a healthcare professional.