Thyroid Extracts

What do they do? The hormones of the thyroid gland regulate metabolism in every cell of the body. The medical treatment of hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) usually involves a prescription of synthetic thyroid hormones (thyroxine and/or triiodothyronine) or thyroid extract (desiccated thyroid). The difference between prescription thyroid extract and the thyroid extracts sold as nutritional supplements, is the latter are required by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to be free of the known active thyroid hormones (thyroxine and triiodothyronine). The use of hormone-free thyroid preparations has not been evaluated in scientific studies, but some doctors believe these products may provide nutritional support to the thyroid gland or contain other compounds with possible hormonal activity.

Thyroid extracts have been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):

Rating	Health Concerns
	Hypothyroidism
Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit. Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit. An herb is primarily supported by traditional use, or the herb or supplement has little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit.

How much is usually taken? The recommended intake depends on the concentration, method of preparation, and quality of the thyroid extract. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation on the label.

Are there any side effects or interactions? No side effects or adverse reactions have been reported. However, people taking prescription thyroid hormones should consult their doctor before using non-prescription thyroid extracts.

At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with thyroid extracts.

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The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2003.