What is Thyroid?

Thyroid is an oral medication made up of desiccated thyroid. Desiccated thyroid is a thyroid extract; which contains two thyroid hormones called triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). Thyroid extract comes from dried (and/or ground) raw tissue from animal thyroid glands. We carry the brand name Thyroid in 30mg, 60mg, and 125mg!

What is Thyroid prescribed for?

Thyroid is prescribed to treat hypothyroidism; a condition where the thyroid gland is not able to produce enough thyroid hormones. These hormones are needed in the body to aid with metabolism and growth and development of the body. Metabolism is the act of converting food into energy; metabolism can range from low to high. High metabolisms burn food into energy much faster than others and require more energy from food in order to grow. Those with low metabolisms (those who cannot produce enough thyroid hormones/hypothyroidism) will have a harder time burning food into energy, which means you’re more likely to gain weight as your body cannot keep up with an even ratio of food eaten and food burned into energy. Because of this uneven ratio, your body will begin to store the fat instead of burning it. This means obesity is a risk factor of this condition. Hypothyroidism may also cause symptoms such as fatigue, dry skin, slowed heart rate, heavier or irregular menstrual cycles, or constipation.

How does Thyroid work?

Thyroid (desiccated thyroid) is effective at treating hypothyroidism because desiccated thyroid is made up of the hormones that are lacking in those with this condition; this medication is able to directly supply the body with what it is missing allowing a decrease in the symptoms the absence is causing.

Use this medication exactly the way it has been prescribed to you. Directions can commonly be found on the prescription label if you forget how your doctor would like you to take Thyroid. Avoid using more or less of a dose or for longer than recommended. You may need frequent blood tests done while being treated with Thyroid. Continue to use this medication even through the times you feel well; those who use thyroid medications, often need to use them for life. If you notice signs of thyroid toxicity (see side effects), contact your doctor right away. If you need surgery, ensure you tell your surgeon ahead of time exactly which medications you are currently taking.

Take this medication once a day; by mouth; on an empty stomach; 30 minutes to 1 hour before eating.

Do not use Thyroid (desiccated thyroid)

Since the active ingredient of this medication (desiccated thyroid) is naturally found inside the human body, a very good majority of people can use this medication; however, you may not be able to if you have a thyroid disorder called thyrotoxicosis or an adrenal gland problem (untreated).

Dose adjustment or special precautions may be required

Tell your doctor before treatment if you have heart disease, angina, coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure, any type of diabetes, or problems with your adrenal gland.

Risks

This medication is not expected to harm an unborn child although; your dose may need to change if you become pregnant. Tell your doctor before treatment if you are pregnant, or if you become pregnant during treatment.

Small amounts of this medication can pass into breast milk however it is not expected to harm a nursing baby. You should still avoid breast feeding while using this medication until you have discussed the risks and benefits with your doctor.

Common side effects of Thyroid (desiccated thyroid) may include:

• Pediatric patients only – hair loss.

The above side effects should not alarm you.

Serious side effects of Thyroid (desiccated thyroid) may include:

• Changes in appetite

• changes in menstrual periods

• chest pain

• diarrhea

• fast or irregular heartbeat

thyroid toxicity; chest pain, fast or pounding heartbeats, feeling hot or nervous, or sweating more than usual.

If you have any of the above side effects or signs of complications, contact your doctor right away.

Please note this is not a complete list of side effects. Not everyone experiences side effects; they are not guaranteed. If you do have side effects and they become unmanageable, consult your doctor about alternate medications.

Is it possible to have an overdose on this medication if it’s a naturally occurring?

Even though the hormones found in this medication are natural, you can still use to much and find yourself having an overdose. Seek medical emergency services right away if you suspect an overdose; watch for signs, such as headache, sweating, diarrhea, irregular menstrual periods, confusion, weakness, swelling in your hands or feet, fast heart rate, chest pain, feeling short of breath, fainting, or feeling nervous, restless, or irritable.

I take antacids – is there anything I should specifically know?

If you take antacids, you should know a 4 hour time window is needed in between your Thyroid dose and your antacid. Those of you who may also take cholestyramine (Prevalite, Questran) or colestipol (Colestid) should also take the same advice.

What is the average dose for an adult with hypothyroidism?

The average dose for an adult with hypothyroidism is an initial dose of 30mg taken once a day on an empty stomach. The dose may be increased by 15mg per day every 2-3 weeks until normal T3 and T4 levels are achieved. This goal is usually achieved around 60mg – 120mg per day.

What is the dosing information for pediatric patients?

For pediatric patients, the daily (tablet per day) dosing is as following:

• 0 to 6 months: 4.8mg to 6mg

• 6 to 12 months: 3.6mg to 4.8mg

•  1 to 5 years: 3mg to 3.6mg

• 6 to 12 years: 2.4mg to 3mg

• Older than 12 years: 1.2mg to 1.8mg

***Each of these doses are per kg of body weight.***