Hypothyroidism, a condition marked by inadequate production of thyroid hormones by the thyroid glands, is a chronic condition and therefore those who are suffering from it have to endure it in their lifetime. It is however quite manageable as you just have to take particular medications. Here are a few several strategies on how hypothyroidism is treated.

The typical prescribed medication used for treating hypothyroidism is synthetic levothyroxine (T4). While the most active thyroid hormones is actually triiodothyronine (T3), the synthetic T4 is the ideal remedy since it is more dependable and only requires once a day dosing, while T3 is shorter-acting and thus needed to be taken on a multiple basis. Furthermore, T4 is readily transformed to T3 in the system. Synthetic T4 is preferably ingested in the morning, 10 minutes prior to eating. Other drugs that contains iron and antacids must be avoided since they could mess with the absorption of T4 by the body.

Grown ups are often required a dose of 100 to 150 micrograms of synthetic T4 daily. Kids however need a greater dosage for their growth and metabolism. Synthetic T4 isn’t advisable for people with an underlying heart condition as it could aggravate it.

Besides the common T4 medication, there are also other treatment options that individuals with an under active thyroid can opt to take. For example, it’s possible to take a combination of both T3 and T4 medications. Some researchers documented that taking additional T3 along with the regular T4 can help patients feel better by alleviating them a few of the symptoms like brain fog, depression, and fatigue. Another alternative treatment is desiccated thyroid extract made from pork or a combination of pork and beef thyroid glands. This treatment method includes both T3 and T4 thyroid hormones, although the trouble with it is that it lacked uniformity of strength from batch to batch. However, some supporters of this treatment claim that its superior since it is more natural and is helpful in relieving symptoms like fatigue and depressed mood.

Those who go through treatment of hypothyroidism ought to be supervised frequently to make certain their thyroid hormones are consistent. This is very important to ensure that the treatment is working for the patient and to make certain as well that what is being given is not too much, as it can lead to symptoms of hyperthyroidism.