WARNING

Taking desiccated thyroid comes with several risks, including:

• Inconsistent Hormone Levels: Desiccated thyroid contains both T4 and T3 hormones, which may lead to fluctuating hormone levels in the body, potentially causing symptoms of hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism.
• Overdose: It’s easier to overdose on desiccated thyroid compared to synthetic thyroid hormone replacements because it contains varying amounts of T4 and T3. An overdose can lead to symptoms such as rapid heart rate, palpitations, sweating, nervousness, and even more severe complications.
• Side Effects: Like any medication, desiccated thyroid can cause side effects such as palpitations, anxiety, insomnia, weight loss, tremors, digestive issues, headache, and hair loss.
• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to desiccated thyroid, leading to symptoms such as rash, itching, or swelling of the face, tongue, or throat.
• Interactions: Desiccated thyroid may interact with other medications, supplements, or foods, affecting its absorption or potency. It’s essential to discuss all medications and supplements with your healthcare provider to avoid potential interactions.
• Inadequate Monitoring: Regular monitoring of thyroid function tests is necessary to ensure that the dosage of desiccated thyroid is appropriate and thyroid hormone levels remain within the target range. Failure to monitor thyroid function adequately may lead to complications or ineffective treatment.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The use of desiccated thyroid during pregnancy and breastfeeding requires careful consideration, as hormone requirements may change during these periods, necessitating adjustments in dosage.
• Lack of Regulation: Desiccated thyroid is derived from animal thyroid glands and may vary in potency and quality between manufacturers. This lack of standardization can lead to inconsistencies in treatment effectiveness and potential safety concerns.

Overall, while desiccated thyroid may be a suitable treatment option for some individuals with hypothyroidism, it’s essential to weigh the risks and benefits carefully and use the medication under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Regular monitoring and open communication with your healthcare provider are crucial for safe and effective treatment with desiccated thyroid.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Desiccated thyroid, such as Armour Thyroid or Nature-Throid, is prescribed primarily for the treatment of hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone, leading to symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, and depression. It is in a class of medications called thyroid agents. It works by supplying the thyroid hormone normally produced by the body.

How should this medicine be used?

Desiccated thyroid, also known as thyroid extract, is typically used to treat hypothyroidism, a condition characterized by an underactive thyroid gland. Here’s a general guideline on how it should be used:

• Dosage: The dosage of desiccated thyroid is prescribed by a healthcare provider based on factors such as the individual’s age, weight, thyroid function tests, and overall health condition. It’s important to follow the prescribed dosage exactly as directed.
• Administration: Desiccated thyroid is usually taken orally, with or without food. However, it’s typically recommended to take it on an empty stomach to ensure optimal absorption. Taking it in the morning, at least 30 minutes before breakfast, is a common practice. The tablets should be swallowed whole with a full glass of water.
• Consistency: It’s essential to take desiccated thyroid consistently at the same time each day to maintain stable thyroid hormone levels in the body.
• Avoid Crushing or Chewing: Desiccated thyroid tablets should not be crushed, chewed, or broken apart. They should be swallowed whole to ensure proper absorption and release of the thyroid hormones.
• Regular Monitoring: Regular monitoring of thyroid function tests, such as TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) levels, is necessary while taking desiccated thyroid. This helps to ensure that the dosage is appropriate and thyroid hormone levels are within the target range.
• Adjustments: Dosage adjustments may be necessary over time based on changes in thyroid function tests and the individual’s response to the medication. These adjustments should only be made under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
• Precautions: Desiccated thyroid may interact with other medications, supplements, or certain foods. It’s important to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications and supplements you are taking before starting desiccated thyroid.
• Side Effects: While desiccated thyroid is generally well-tolerated, some individuals may experience side effects such as palpitations, weight loss, nervousness, or insomnia. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects, contact your healthcare provider.
• Do Not Stop Abruptly: It’s important not to stop taking desiccated thyroid suddenly without consulting your healthcare provider, as this can lead to complications with thyroid function.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and consult them if you have any questions or concerns about the use of desiccated thyroid.

Other uses for this medicine

• Thyroid Disorders: Besides hypothyroidism, desiccated thyroid may also be used in certain cases of thyroid hormone replacement therapy.
• Thyroid Cancer: In some instances, desiccated thyroid may be part of the treatment plan for thyroid cancer, especially after thyroidectomy (surgical removal of the thyroid gland).

What special precautions should I follow?

Regarding special precautions for desiccated thyroid, here are some important points to consider:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any allergies, especially to pork products, as desiccated thyroid is derived from porcine (pig) thyroid glands.
• Medical History: Provide a comprehensive medical history to your healthcare provider, including any past or present thyroid conditions, heart problems, diabetes, adrenal gland issues, or medication/supplement use.
• Dosage Adjustment: Dosage adjustments may be necessary if you have certain medical conditions, such as cardiovascular disease or diabetes, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Interactions: Desiccated thyroid may interact with certain medications, supplements, or foods. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and dietary habits to prevent potential interactions.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of thyroid function tests, such as TSH levels, is essential to ensure that the dosage of desiccated thyroid is appropriate and thyroid hormone levels remain within the target range.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of using desiccated thyroid with your healthcare provider. Thyroid hormone requirements may change during pregnancy, requiring adjustments in dosage.
• Storage: Store desiccated thyroid tablets in a cool, dry place away from moisture and heat, and keep them out of reach of children.

By following these precautions and guidelines, you can use desiccated thyroid safely and effectively under the supervision of your healthcare provider.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There aren’t specific dietary instructions for desiccated thyroid, but certain dietary factors can affect its absorption:

• Consistency: Take desiccated thyroid consistently with or without food, preferably on an empty stomach for optimal absorption.
• Calcium and Iron: Avoid taking desiccated thyroid with calcium or iron supplements, as they can interfere with its absorption. Wait at least 4 hours before taking these supplements.
• High-Fiber Foods: High-fiber foods may reduce desiccated thyroid absorption. Take the medication at least 4 hours before or after consuming high-fiber foods.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one, as this can increase the risk of side effects.
• If you frequently forget doses, consider setting reminders or alarms to help you remember.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Desiccated thyroid, like any medication, can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects may include:

• Palpitations or rapid heart rate: Some individuals may experience an increased heart rate or palpitations, especially when starting treatment or if the dosage is too high.
• Nervousness or anxiety: Desiccated thyroid may lead to feelings of nervousness or anxiety, particularly if the dosage is too high for the individual.
• Insomnia: Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep can occur in some individuals taking desiccated thyroid, especially if the medication is taken too close to bedtime.
• Tremors: Shaking or tremors in the hands or other parts of the body may occur as a side effect of desiccated thyroid.
• Sweating: Some individuals may experience increased sweating or heat intolerance while taking desiccated thyroid.
• Weight loss: Unintentional weight loss can occur, especially if the dosage of desiccated thyroid is too high for the individual’s needs.
• Digestive issues: Some people may experience digestive symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal cramps, or nausea.
• Headache: Headaches are a potential side effect of desiccated thyroid, although they are less common.
• Hair loss: In some cases, desiccated thyroid may lead to hair loss or thinning, particularly during the initial adjustment period.
• Changes in menstrual cycle: Women may experience changes in their menstrual cycle, including irregular periods or heavier bleeding.
• Allergic reactions: While rare, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to desiccated thyroid, including rash, itching, or swelling of the face, tongue, or throat.

It’s important to note that these side effects are not exhaustive, and some individuals may experience other reactions. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking desiccated thyroid, contact your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance. Additionally, sudden changes in dosage or discontinuation of desiccated thyroid should be avoided without medical supervision.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and disposal of desiccated thyroid:

• Storage: Store desiccated thyroid tablets in a cool, dry place away from moisture and heat. Keep the medication container tightly closed and out of reach of children.
• Disposal: Dispose of unused or expired desiccated thyroid tablets according to local regulations. Do not flush them down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek medical attention: If you suspect an overdose of desiccated thyroid or experience severe symptoms such as rapid heart rate, chest pain, confusion, seizures, or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical assistance.
• Call emergency services: Contact emergency services or your local poison control center for guidance on how to manage the situation.

What other information should I know?

• Regular monitoring: Regularly monitor thyroid function tests, such as TSH levels, as directed by your healthcare provider to ensure that the dosage of desiccated thyroid is appropriate and thyroid hormone levels remain within the target range.
• Follow-up appointments: Attend scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to assess the effectiveness of desiccated thyroid therapy and make any necessary adjustments to dosage or treatment plan.
• Consistency: Take desiccated thyroid consistently at the same time each day to maintain stable thyroid hormone levels in the body.
• Communication with healthcare provider: Inform your healthcare provider about any changes in your symptoms, medication adherence, or potential side effects while taking desiccated thyroid.
• Medication interactions: Be aware of potential interactions between desiccated thyroid and other medications, supplements, or foods. Consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any concerns.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of desiccated thyroid therapy with your healthcare provider. Thyroid hormone requirements may change during pregnancy and breastfeeding, requiring adjustments in dosage.
• Travel: If you plan to travel, ensure you have an adequate supply of desiccated thyroid medication and any necessary prescriptions. Keep medication in its original container with the prescription label affixed.

By following these guidelines and staying informed about the use of desiccated thyroid, you can use the medication safely and effectively under the guidance of your healthcare provider.