Our practice offers peptide therapy. A peptide is a short chain of amino acids that are connected to one another by peptide bonds. Many health and cosmetic products contain peptides for many uses. The most well-known peptide is insulin. We have various peptide products available, including some that help with hair loss, stimulate growth hormone, help with weight loss, sexual function, and other various uses. If you think peptide therapy may help one of your conditions contact our office.
We offer peptide therapy through our partnership with BioTE Medical. BioTE Medical has a mission to help improve our patient’s lives. This is not just through hormone optimization (which is a big key) but also through high quality Nutraceuticals that can help improve various conditions, as well as Peptide Therapy. BioTE has carefully selected every peptide to help support the BioTE method of hormone optimization. Peptides provide many important influences when used in conjunction with bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT):
A peptide is a short chain of amino acids. The amino acids in a peptide are connected to one another in a sequence by bonds called peptide bonds. Typically, peptides are distinguished from proteins by their shorter length, although the cut-off number of amino acids for defining a peptide and protein can be arbitrary. Peptides are naturally occurring biological molecules. They are found in all living organisms and play a key role in all manner of biological activity. Many health and cosmetic products contain different peptides for many uses, such as their potential anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, and muscle-building properties.
Some of the more important peptides we have access for our patients are highlighted below:
There are several peptides to help with hair loss. These include PTD-DBM, Valproic Acid, Zinc-Thymulin and GHK-Cu.
There are several peptides available to help with skin conditions. The skin consists of three layers: epidermis, dermis and subcutaneous tissue. It also contains hair follicles. The dermis is the deeper layer, forming the main bulk of the skin. Its function is to provide a tough matrix to support the blood vessels, nerves and appendages that are embedded in it. The fibers present in the dermal connective tissue are predominantly collagen and elastin.
Some 80% of the dry weight of adult skin consists of collagen. Collagen fibers, produced by fibroblasts, are arranged parallel to the skin surface. This gives the skin a high tensile strength and prevents it from being torn by over stretching. In contrast, elastin constitutes about 5% of the dermis, and provides the skin with elasticity and resilience. Elastin fibers are arranged as a thinly distributed subepidermal network and are also produced by fibroblasts. The dermal connective tissue additionally contains sensory receptors and the supportive glycosaminogylcans (GAGs) such as hyaluronic acid.
The predominant form of collagen found in adult human skin is type I, followed by type III. In young people, microscopic examination of collagen from the dermis of skin areas not exposed to the sun shows thin, wavy, uniform fibrillar units. The skin becomes thinner and changes structure and function with age. In the elderly, the skin contains thickened, clumped basophilic collagenous material, indicating partial degradation of collagen. Collagen atrophy is a major factor in skin aging. Studies show a significant decline in the quantity of dermal collagen with aging.
These peptides follow a similar mechanism like that of Botox. Botox works by decreasing the amount of muscle activity by blocking the release of acetylcholine. This is done by inhibiting the fusion of the vesicle storing the neurotransmitter to the cell membrane, thus rendering the muscle inactive for about three to four months.
There are several peptides that are available to improve or enhance sexual issues. Several of these can be used to improve libido, orgasm, and erectile difficulties. They include PT-141, Tadalafil/Apomorphine, Oxytocin, Melatonin-1, and arousal creams. They are either used as troches, sub-cutaneous injections, nasal sprays, or topical applications.
PT-141 was developed from Melatonin-II which has strong aphrodisiac effects. The melanocortins exert their influence in certain areas of the brain. It elicits a more natural sexual response. In men it can have a rapid onset of arousal with erection achieved within minutes. It was found to induce erection in 80% of men who did not respond to PDE-5 inhibitor drugs (Viagra and Cialis). In females a significantly higher percentage of females had a satisfying sexual event when compared to placebo. Side effects can include flushing, GI upset and spontaneous erection.
Apomorphine can lead to greater activation of the hypothalamus in an area rich in dopamine receptors. It can be combined with Tadalafil in a troche which can be taken 30 minutes before activity in men and women.
Oxytocin has long been known for its role in female reproduction. Recent studies have investigated its role in various behaviors including orgasm, erection, ejaculation as well others such as bonding. It targets erectile tissue such as the corpus cavernous and corpus spongiosum. It can be used intranasally or by troche 30 minutes before activity by men or women.
Melatonin-I can be used 3 days per week by sub-cutaneous injection to improve libido and sex drive. It does cause a visible darkening of the skin.
Arousal Creams are a topical cream that can improve blood flow to the clitorus and improve and enhance orgasms.
The peptides listed are just a few of those available, with more in various stages of development. Contact our office to learn more about how peptide therapy can improve your well-being.
Facial resurfacing with the Juliet laser can either be a light facial peel or a deeper ablative peel. Many skin problems are present the first layers of dead and damaged skin and this is what the laser treatment can remedy. An ablative peel goes deeper and can treat more damaged areas. After the treatment you will have redness and will be advised to avoid the sun for several days. If you’re interested to see how the Juliet laser can help you skin, contact our office.
The stresses and strains of everyday life take a real toll on your skin. Wrinkles, sun damage, scars, birthmarks, moles, acne and pigmentation problems affect your appearance and confidence.
That is why there is a multi billion dollar beauty industry selling creams and other treatments for these common issues.You have probably been disappointed with consumer level solutions in the past. These products often lack the power to make any meaningful change to your skin.
If you are serious about rejuvenating your skin, then you need to consider Juliet Laser Skin Resurfacing. This powerful, professional level treatment can give you healthier and smoother skin after just one short procedure.
If you have never had laser beauty treatments before, this may seem like an extreme solution. A Juliet laser facials, however, is a hassle free, safe procedure that has worked for thousands of people looking to improve their skin.To help you better understand this procedure and how it can help you achieve flawless skin, let’s take a quick look at what you can expect from the procedure.
Juliet Laser Skin Resurfacing is a simple day procedure that uses a powerful cosmetic laser to remove dead skin cells.
Most common skin problems are present in the first layers of dead and damaged skin and this is what laser treatment seeks to remedy.
When choosing your laser facial treatment, there are two options:
In both levels of treatment, the dead skin cells in the top layers of your face are removed. This encourages your body to begin the natural process of replacing the dead cells. The new layer of skin is typically unaffected by the condition that existed before and will be noticeably smoother and more vibrant.
Laser Skin Resurfacing is a simple day procedure that normally takes 30 minutes to complete. It is completely safe, non invasive and non surgical, which sets it apart from many other popular beauty treatments on the market.
Once you get settled in the treatment room, your face will be cleansed of oils and a mild numbing cream is also applied to reduce feeling in the treatment area.
Next, the Juliet device is focused on the target area, casting a tight laser grid onto the skin.
Unlike other beauty laser treatments, a ‘cool’ setting is available on Juliet lasers. This delivers micro pulses rather than a sustained beam, resulting in far less heat and pain.
As soon as the treatment is complete, antibiotic cream and bandages are placed on your face. By doing this immediately, any redness or swelling is minimized and it starts you on the path of full recovery.
The results of your laser facial treatment will not be immediate, but will be well worth the wait. Dr Allen will review the whole process to you before and after the procedure and be available to help you throughout the recovery process.
You can resume your normal daily activities straight away. However, you may want to avoid any important meetings or functions for the first few days. During this time of healing and rejuvenation, you will not be able to wear makeup.
During this time, you should also be careful to protect your skin while it is healing and growing new, healthy cells. If you are going to be outside for any length of time, that means wearing a good broad spectrum sunscreen.
Redness or swelling may be present for up to 36 hours after the treatment, but this is an individual thing and varies from person to person.
After this time, the top layers of skin that the laser has targeted will begin to come off, revealing the new and revitalized skin below.
After your first treatment with the Juliet Laser, you will see results within 3-5 days after your treatment. You can expect full healing and the final results in around 1-3 months.
The Juliet laser can help:
Although you may be happy after just one treatment, some cases call for multiple lighter treatments and this should be discussed with your doctor during the consultation stage. There is no rule about how often you should repeat laser facial treatments. It is best to consult with a professional and discuss your best options based on your skin’s condition and the results you wish to achieve.
Individual results may vary.
Dr Allen's office offers high-quality hemp oil products that contain CBD. These products are made with high standards with good absorption and high-quality. The endocannabinoid system is the largest neurotransmitter system and has various effects on the body. Many patients are already using these products. Our products contain less than 0.3% THC by weight. One of these products might help you, so contact our office for more information.
CBD is the abbreviation for the compound Cannabidiol and it is one of 113 identified phytocannabinoids found in cannabis and hemp. There is good evidence that it has potential benefit to a wide range of systems in our body because it exerts its effect through the body’s endocannabinoid system. We’ve all heard of our body’s cardiovascular system, gastrointestinal system, respiratory system, and so forth, but did you know your body also has an endocannabinoid system?
The endocannabinoid system was identified in the 1992 by Raphael Mechoulam, an Israeli organic chemist and professor of Medicinal Chemistry at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in Israel. Studying the effects of cannabis since the 60’s, Dr. Mechoulam ascertained that THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) interacts with the largest receptor system in the human body, the endocannabinoid system (ECS).
He then found that the human brain produces its very own Cannabis-like substance, a chemical they named "anandamide" after the Sanskrit word ananda, meaning “bliss”. Anandamide exerts positive effects on mood, memory, brain function and pain, but it is rapidly inactivated by an enzyme (FAAH) making its effect short lived. CBD actually inhibits the action of the enzyme FAAH so that the body’s naturally made anandamide continues to be active, prolonging the positive effect on mood, memory, brain function and pain relief.
Our body’s ECS has at least two major receptors, CB 1 and CB 2, and also produces other endocannabinoids beside anandamide. The CB 1 receptors are typically found in the brain and throughout the nervous system while CB 2 receptors are primarily found in the immune system. Consequently, we can see why CBD oil is touted to treat illnesses from A to Z…acne, allergy, anxiety, epilepsy, pain, etc.
Formula30A Clinical Strength Full-Spectrum Hemp CBD Extract is built on an all-natural formula containing a full-spectrum of cannabidiol, phytocannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids that work together to magnify each other’s therapeutic benefits.
Formula30A’s organically grown hemp flowers, harvested by expert Colorado and Oregon growers, are third-party tested for potency and purity. Through their US-patented, water-based extraction process, it can deliver a full-spectrum hemp extract high in CBD content without the contamination risk of other extraction processes in the industry. Our extract is then combined with organic coconut oil (and nothing else!) and encapsulated in vegan capsules.
There is 25mg of CBD full-spectrum extract per capsule for ease of use and proper dosing. At Formula30A, we aim to supply the Medical Community and their patients with the finest, high-quality CBD products and lead the industry in clinical research and education.
Contains less than 0.3% THC by weight. All product is delivered to our medical providers with Certificate of Analysis of every batch we produce.
Each bottle of Formula30A 25mg Capsules comes with 30 capsules containing 25mg each of full-spectrum CBD extract (750mg of CBD total per bottle) and additional ingredients: Organic Coconut Oil, Hemp CBD Extract, Vegan Capsules.
CBD oil contains a number of different cannabinoids, as well as essential vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, and amino acids, but may also contain other active components such as flavonoids and terpenes. THC, the psychoactive component in hemp, is found in higher concentrations in products designed for use such as medical marijuana.
The pure CBD isolate variety has absolutely no THC. The CBD isolate also does not contain the additional flavonoids and terpenes. The pure CBD isolate variety definitely provides benefit to the endocannabinoid system of the body, as we discussed previously: acne, allergy, anxiety, epilepsy, pain, etc.
The premium variety of CBD oil, called "full spectrum," does contain these additional active components of flavonoids and terpenes, all working together to provide enhancement called the “entourage effect.” Since the full spectrum variety contains these additional active components, it can also have trace amounts of the psychoactive THC. However, all full spectrum products available outside of the medical and recreational hemp realm, by law have less than 0.3% THC and therefore have no psychoactive effects on a person, though may possibly result in a positive THC drug screen. For those not exposed to a potential drug screen, the full spectrum variety of CBD oil may provide a more robust benefit as the cannabinoids, flavonoids, and terpenes work synergistically to enhance and broaden the benefit.
So now that you know the difference between regular and premium (isolate and full spectrum), you should be ready to select the product that best suits your situation. To help ensure you select a product that delivers potency, purity, and quality these five questions will provide the information you need to make a wise decision.
Industrial hemp is a variety of the Cannabis sativa plant species grown specifically for the industrial uses of its derived products. Commercially it has been refined into paper, textiles, clothing, biodegradable plastics, paint, insulation, biofuel, food, cosmetics, nutritional supplements and animal feed. While industrial hemp and marijuana are both members of the Cannabis sativa species, they have distinctive biochemical compositions and uses.
Unique to industrial hemp are the high amounts of phytocannabinoids (sometimes referred to as CBD, which is an abbreviation for cannabidiol), a prominent naturally-occurring cannabinoid component found in Cannabis Sativa. CBD is “a cannabinoid devoid of psychoactive effect.” After THC (Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD is by far the most studied natural cannabinoid. According to many researchers it may be the single most important cannabinoid ever discovered.
Phytocannabinoids are harvested from industrial hemp which has been specifically cultivated for medicinal and industrial use with high CBD content and THC levels below 0.3%. Marijuana, on the other hand, is harvested from Cannabis plants that are cultivated with high THC and low CBD content.
Through a combination of unique cultivars, advanced plant genetics, and cutting-edge growing techniques, an exceptionally high percentage of CBD oil with low levels of THC* can legally be produced around the world and in the US naturally and consistently from industrial hemp. Made with the oil from these hemp cultivars, CBD can legally be distributed and sold throughout the US in a variety of products containing little or no THC.
Super Critical CO2 & Liquid Chromatography Extraction—the Gold Standard! Crucial to the quality of natural hemp CBD-rich oil is extraction, which takes place after the plants have been harvested and dried. Inexpensive methods yielding low quality CBD oil involve toxic solvents such as propane, hexane, pentane, and butane, which are flammable hydrocarbon gases found in petroleum.
Another popular method uses organic, pharmaceutical-grade ethanol or grain alcohol to eliminate certain toxins and residues in the raw plant material itself. While this yields a high amount of cannabinoids and is GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) for human consumption, it can also destroy the plant’s waxes, leading to a less potent oil.
The most proven method of extraction yielding the highest quality hemp CBD oil is Supercritical CO2, which uses carbon dioxide under high pressure and extremely low temperatures to isolate, preserve, and maintain oil purity, preserving the highest percentage of the plant’s trichomes – cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. While more expensive and requiring complex equipment and expertise, Supercritical CO2 extraction is the only method used by growers and producers of the full spectrum hemp CBD oil used in all Med 7 products.
The US and European Union require all legally distributed and sold CBD products contain less than 0.3% and 0.2% THC respectively. Because CBD and THC are so similar, other companies producing full spectrum hemp oil have to strip them both out and later in the process reintroduce CBD back into the mix as an isolate. Other methods include diluting the CBD content with other oils and ingredients to meet these regulations. Med 7 is one of the only US companies to use column chromatography to remove any unwanted amounts of THC without removing CBD or other cannabinoids.
Med7 uses Purzorb* technology which makes full spectrum hemp oil, including CBD, more bio-available without changing its structure or losing its efficacy. With an absorption rate of 85% and peak effect in under 15 minutes, Med 7 is the fastest, most efficient full spectrum hemp CBD oil you can buy.
A hysterectomy is a procedure to remove all or part of a woman’s uterus. This will result in the patients inability to conceive in the future and she will no longer have any menstrual cycles. These procedures are done for various reasons including heavy and painful menstrual cycles, uterine fibroids, pelvic pain, endometriosis, and other reasons.
If a hysterectomy is recommended and desired by the patient they are done in our practices with the da Vinci robotic surgical platform. The surgical platform allows outpatient hysterectomies and the patient returns home on the same day as the procedure and is back to their normal activities sooner.
Our practice has been doing robotic-assisted hysterectomies since 2010. We also perform robotic assisted myomectomies in certain cases which allows removal of fibroids without removal of the uterus.
Pelvic pain is any condition which causes pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen and pelvic region. It can be due to a variety of causes including gastrointestinal, genito-urinary, infections, past surgeries, endometriosis, and other causes.
Many patients will suffer from these conditions for many years before seeking help. Determining etiology of the pelvic pain can sometimes be difficult. The evaluation can include an exam, imaging studies, laboratory tests, a thorough history, and sometimes surgical evaluation. In addition, evaluation by other physicians such as a gastroenterologist or a urologist can be helpful.
If you have been suffering from pelvic pain contact our office for an appointment for a consultation.
Endometriosis is a chronic gynecologic condition which can affect women of all ages but is more prominent in younger women. By definition it is the presence of endometrial tissue (which is in the inner part of the uterus) that is present in tissues outside of the uterus. The exact cause of endometriosis is not known and there is no one theory that can account for all the cases of endometriosis.
Signs and symptoms of endometriosis can include pelvic pain, painful and heavy cycles, painful sex, infertility, irregular bleeding, and other symptoms.
Diagnosis of endometriosis can be based on signs and symptoms but also may require a surgical evaluation. Surgical treatment can be both diagnostic as well as therapeutic. There are newer medical therapies which can be very effective in the treatment of endometriosis.
If you believe you may be suffering from endometriosis contact our office and make an appointment for an evaluation.
Many women suffer from heavy menstrual cycles. There are various treatment options for heavy menstrual cycles and one of these options is an endometrial ablation. For women that may have failed hormonal therapy and do not have any contraindications to an ablation this can be a very safe and effective procedure.
An endometrial ablation is a procedure that destroys the endometrial tissue. The endometrial tissue is what bleeds every month with a menstrual cycle. The Novasure endometrial ablation utilizes Radio- frequency technology to destroy the endometrial tissue. For the patient that does not have contraindications to the procedure it can be very effective with many women never having cycles after the procedure. In addition, the procedure has very little downtime or side effects
For over 20 years we have been doing endometrial ablation in our office with the assistance of an anesthesiologist. Not every patient is a candidate for an in office ablation.
If you are suffering from heavy menstrual cycles and think you might be a candidate for an endometrial ablation contact our office for an evaluation.
Hysteroscopy is a procedure in which a small lighted scope is placed through the cervix and into the inside of the uterine cavity. It can be used for both diagnosis as well as treatment. It is usually done prior to an endometrial ablation, sometimes to remove a retained interuterine device or foreign object, and to help diagnose the cause of heavy bleeding or postmenopausal bleeding.
Our office has been using the EndoSee hysteroscope device since it first became available. This is a small hysteroscope which can allow many of these procedures to be done in the office with either a local anesthetic or no anesthesia at all. This procedure involves minimal downtime and allows the patient to see her findings at the time of the procedure.
If you have symptoms that may require a hysteroscopy please contact our office for an evaluation.
Our practice is committed to helping our patients as they deal through perimenopause and menopause. In the male patient this is sometimes referred to as “andropause”. We are committed to helping both male and female patients navigate these phases of their life.
For our female patients this may involve supplementation with estrogen, testosterone, and progesterone. Treatment may include pills, creams, or possibly pellets. Hormone replacement therapy can significantly improve a patient’s quality of life and reduce her risk for other conditions as she ages.
We offer bio-identical pellet hormone replacement therapy for both men and women. We have been a certified BioTe provider since the inception of the company, and have being doing pellet therapy since 2012. Bio-identical pellet therapy are hormones made from natural plant substances and are in the form the body is used to processing. It is individualized hormone therapy with dosing based on each individual patient.
We also offer patients various other types of hormone therapies to help them navigate through menopause.
Contact our office if you are interested in learning about the benefits of hormone replacement therapy.
BioTe benefits both men and women! Click here to learn more,
Menopause is a major transition in a woman’s life and can have major impacts on their health and well-being. For many women it is a difficult transition and our practice is here to help patients with this transition.
Many patients experience some of these symptoms even before the complete succession of their menstrual cycles. These include skin changes, hot flashes, irregular cycles, irritation, mood issues, night sweats, sleep problems, weight gain, sexual dysfunction and vaginal dryness.
We have a long history in our practice of working with women during and after menopause. We have many solutions to help women transition during this phase of their life.
Schedule an appointment with our office if you are experiencing signs and symptoms of menopause and are interested in therapeutic options for this time in your life.
