Hormone Replacement Therapy

Typical recovery · Ongoing / reassessed periodically

Most women notice improvement in hot flashes and sleep within 4–6 weeks of starting therapy. Follow-up review is typically at 6–12 weeks to check dose and route, then at least annually, with individualized discussion of breast cancer, blood clot, and cardiovascular risk versus benefit at each review; therapy is generally continued at the lowest effective dose for as long as symptoms warrant.

Typical recovery · Ongoing / lifelong monitoring

Baseline hematocrit and PSA (in men over 40) are checked before starting, then testosterone level, hematocrit, and PSA are rechecked at 3–6 months and at least annually thereafter, since therapy can raise red blood cell count (polycythemia risk) and requires prostate monitoring. Most men notice improved energy and libido within 3–6 weeks, with fuller effects on muscle mass and mood over 3–6 months.

Typical recovery · Ongoing / lifelong monitoring

Dosing starts low and is titrated upward every 1–2 months based on IGF-1 blood levels and symptom response, with formal review roughly every 3 months during titration and at least every 6–12 months once stable; monitoring also tracks blood glucose, thyroid function, and fluid retention. Noticeable improvements in energy and body composition typically build over 3–6 months of consistent dosing.

Typical recovery · Ongoing / lifelong, life-sustaining

Hydrocortisone is typically dosed 2–3 times daily (higher dose on waking, tapering through the day) to mimic the body's natural cortisol rhythm, with fludrocortisone taken once daily when needed; doses must be increased during illness, injury, or stress ("sick day rules") to prevent a life-threatening adrenal crisis. Electrolytes, blood pressure, and symptom control are reviewed roughly every 6–12 months once stable, and patients are advised to carry emergency steroid and medical-alert identification at all times.