Supplement Remedy for Underactive Thyroid

The thyroid is a gland in the neck that regulates the hormones controlling weight, body temperature, mood and more. When the thyroid is sluggish or underactive, it is called hypothyroid. After a patient is diagnosed with hypothyroidism, thyroid replacement therapy, a daily supplement that mimics the thyroid's functioning, is recommended.

Synthetic Supplements

• The standard supplemental remedy for an underactive thyroid is a synthetic, man-made copy of the T4 horomone (the hormone that the underactive thyroid has stopped or slowed producing). The supplement is called levothyroxine and goes by a few brand names (Synthroid, Levoxyl and Unithroid). Patients begin at a low dose of the drug, and as their bodies return to normal functioning, may have their doses increased or decreased. A reduction in the hypothyroid symptoms (weight gain, hair loss, extreme fatigue) is usually seen at about four weeks. There are no side effects associated with the medication, but they must be taken as prescribed (usually on an empty stomach).

Natural/Animal Supplements

• Patients have the option to chose a "natural" supplement, which is a pill made from dessicated animal thyroid hormones (the most popular brand is Armour Thyroid). As with their synthetic counterparts, patients begin natural supplements at a low dose and may see their prescription increased over time. There are no side effects associated with natural supplements, but there may be counter-indications with patients consuming oral contraceptives or undergoing insulin therapy.