Natural desiccated thyroid (NDT) is a prescription medication derived from the dried thyroid glands of animals, typically pigs. It is used to treat hypothyroidism, a condition characterized by insufficient thyroid hormone production. While NDT can effectively manage hypothyroidism symptoms, it's crucial to understand its potential side effects and the risks associated with using it for weight loss.
What is Natural Desiccated Thyroid?
Natural desiccated thyroid (NDT) medications like Armour Thyroid, NP Thyroid, and Nature-Thyroid are derived from the dried thyroid glands of animals, usually porcine (from a pig). These medications contain both levothyroxine (T4) and liothyronine (T3), which are thyroid hormones found naturally in the human body. NDT aims to provide a source of these hormones for individuals whose bodies do not produce enough on their own.
Uses of Desiccated Thyroid
Desiccated thyroid is commonly prescribed for the following conditions:
- Hypothyroidism: To address low thyroid hormone levels.
- Enlarged thyroid (goiter): In some cases, to help reduce the size of the thyroid gland.
- Thyroid cancer: As a part of treatment to suppress thyroid hormone production.
How Desiccated Thyroid Works
Desiccated thyroid contains both T4 and T3 hormones. Once ingested, these hormones supplement the body's own thyroid hormone production, helping to regulate metabolism and alleviate symptoms of hypothyroidism. In cases of goiter or thyroid cancer, desiccated thyroid can suppress the thyroid's hormone production, potentially slowing the growth of the gland or cancerous cells.
Common Side Effects
While NDT can be beneficial for treating hypothyroidism, it can also cause side effects, particularly if the dosage is too high. Common side effects include:
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- Arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms)
- Heart attack
- Shortness of breath
- Headache
- Nervousness
- Irritability
- Trouble sleeping
- Tremors
- Muscle weakness
- Increased appetite
- Weight loss
- Diarrhea
- Trouble tolerating heat
- Menstrual changes
- Skin rash
- Hair loss
Serious Side Effects
In rare cases, desiccated thyroid can lead to more severe side effects, including:
- Severe Allergic Reactions: Symptoms can include breathing difficulties, wheezing, rapid heart rate, fever, swollen lymph nodes, facial swelling, trouble swallowing, itching, skin rash, hives, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, stomach cramps, and joint pain. Immediate medical attention is necessary if these symptoms occur.
- Heart Problems: Desiccated thyroid can increase heart rate or cause abnormal rhythms. Chest pain may also occur. These risks are higher in older individuals or those with pre-existing heart conditions.
- Weak Bones: Long-term use of desiccated thyroid, especially in high doses, can lead to decreased bone density (osteopenia) and an increased risk of fractures due to osteoporosis.
Desiccated Thyroid and Weight Loss
It is crucial to understand that desiccated thyroid should not be used for weight loss. While some individuals with hypothyroidism may experience weight gain as a symptom, using thyroid medication solely for weight loss purposes can be dangerous and lead to serious health complications.
Why It's Dangerous
Taking thyroid hormones when your thyroid function is normal can lead to a state of hyperthyroidism. This can cause:
- Rapid heart rate (exceeding 140 beats per minute)
- Atrial fibrillation
- High blood pressure
- High fever
- Heart failure
- Fluid in the lungs
- Thyroid storm, a life-threatening condition
Research Findings
A study comparing desiccated thyroid extract (DTE) with levothyroxine (L-T4) in hypothyroid patients found that while patients lost a modest amount of weight (3 lbs on average) on DTE, the primary benefit was subjective symptom improvement. Specifically, a subgroup of patients who preferred DTE experienced a 4 lb weight loss and reported significantly better symptom relief. However, the study did not support the use of DTE solely for weight loss.
Precautions and Warnings
- Allergies: Individuals allergic to any components of desiccated thyroid medications should avoid them.
- Adrenal Insufficiency: Desiccated thyroid should not be used in individuals with untreated adrenal insufficiency.
- Thyrotoxicosis: It is contraindicated in those with existing thyrotoxicosis (excess thyroid hormone).
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult with a healthcare provider before using desiccated thyroid during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as dosage adjustments and monitoring may be necessary.
- Drug Interactions: Desiccated thyroid can interact with numerous medications, including certain vitamins, minerals, antacids, and drugs for diabetes and heart conditions. A comprehensive review of all medications and supplements with a healthcare provider is essential before starting NDT.
FDA Concerns and Recommendations
The FDA has expressed concerns regarding unapproved animal-derived thyroid medications due to potential safety, purity, and potency issues. The agency recommends that patients currently taking these medications consult with their doctors to transition to FDA-approved alternatives.
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Dosage and Administration
Desiccated thyroid should be taken exactly as prescribed by a healthcare provider. It is typically taken on an empty stomach, 30 minutes to one hour before the first meal of the day. Certain foods, such as soybean flour, cottonseed meal, walnuts, dietary fiber, and grapefruit juice, can interfere with the absorption of the medication.
Monitoring and Follow-Up
Regular monitoring of thyroid hormone levels is crucial to ensure that the dosage of desiccated thyroid is appropriate. Patients should also be aware of potential side effects and promptly report any concerns to their healthcare provider.