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The most widely prescribed drug in the majority of states in America is Levothyroxine, also called Synthroid. Over 120 million prescriptions for Levothyroxine are provided by doctors each year in the United States.
This drug is usually prescribed to seniors, as hypothyroidism is more common in the aged. However, as I have pointed out previously, Levothyroxine is often not the best way to treat hypothyroidism for those who need thyroid replacement. A very recent study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine researched the effect of Levothyroxine compared to placebo in 683 people aged 65 years or older, whose testing showed subclinical hypothyroidism (elevated TSH but normal T4). You can read my article on subclinical hypothyroidism at https://www.americasnaturaldoctor.com/2020/05/the-silent-thyroid-epidemic/
The researchers discovered that Levothyroxine did not improve hypothyroid symptoms or fatigue compared to those taking a placebo.
One of the reasons that synthetic thyroid replacement is not all that helpful is that it does not include the most active thyroid hormone T3, also called triiodothyronine. The main function of Levothyroxine, which is T4, is to be converted by the liver and kidneys into the more active Free T3, which drives energy production in cells. As individuals age, the metabolism abilities of the liver and kidney reduce, so T4 to T3 conversion reduces. Also, seniors may be susceptible to deficiencies in nutrients that are needed for thyroid hormone production, like selenium, iron, and iodine. Obviously, your typical doctor does not address the nutritional requirements for thyroid production.
Integrative physicians like myself prefer desiccated thyroid extract (DTE), or compounded bioidentical (like what your body produces) T4 and T3 combination. The American Thyroid Association and American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists do not tell physicians NOT to prescribe DTE or compounded T4/T3 combination. However, they also do not promote using these beneficial thyroid replacements. Interestingly, the American Thyroid Association removed a statement stating the T4/T3 combination should not be taken. An online survey by WebMD found that DTE was perceived by individuals to work better than Levothyroxine. A previously released study had found the same results; individuals felt better on DTE!
If you are on synthetic thyroid replacement such as Levothyroxine (Synthroid), then seek an integrative doctor knowledgeable in bioidentical thyroid replacement to change types and be monitored. My experience is that the majority of patients feel better on the bioidentical thyroid. Also, be sure you are receiving the nutrients you need for adequate thyroid production.
