Thyroid Hormones

Definition

Thyroid hormones are artificially made hormones that make up for a lack of natural hormones produced by the thyroid gland.

Purpose

The thyroid gland, a butterfly-shaped structure in the lower part of the neck, normally produces a hormone called thyroxine. This hormone controls the rate of metabolism—all the physical and chemical processes that occur in cells to allow growth and maintain body functions. When the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroxine, body processes slow down. People with underactive thyroid glands feel unusually tired and may gain weight even though they eat less. They may also have trouble staying warm and may have other symptoms, such as dry skin, dry hair, and a puffy face. By making up for the lack of natural thyroxine and bringing the rate of metabolism back to normal, artificially made thyroid hormone improves these symptoms.Thyroid hormones also may be used to treat goiter (enlarged thyroid gland) and certain types of thyroid cancer.

Description

Thyroid hormones, also called thyroid drugs, are available only with a physician's prescription. They are sold in tablet form. A commonly used thyroid hormone is levothyroxine (Synthroid, Levoxyl, Levothroid).

Recommended dosage

For adults and teenagers, the usual starting dose of levothyroxine tablets is 0.0125 mg (12.5 micrograms) to 0.05 mg (50 micrograms) per day. The physician who prescribes the medicine may gradually increase the dose over time.For children, the dose depends on body weight and must be determined by a physician.Taking thyroid hormones exactly as directed is very important. The physician who prescribes the medicine will figure out exactly how much of the medicine a patient needs. Taking too much or too little can make the thyroid gland overactive or underactive.This medicine should be taken at the same time every day.

Precautions

People who take thyroid hormones because their thyroid glands do not produce enough natural hormone may need to take the medicine for the rest of their lives. Seeing a physician regularly while taking this medicine is important. The physician will make sure that the medicine is working and that the dosage is correct.In patients with certain kinds of heart disease, this medicine may cause chest pains and shortness of breath during exercise. People who have this problem should be careful not to exert themselves too much.Anyone who is taking thyroid hormones should be sure to tell the health care professional in charge before having any surgical or dental procedures or receiving emergency treatment.This medicine is safe to take during pregnancy, but the dosage may need to be changed. Women who are pregnant should check with their physicians to make sure they are taking the proper dosage.Anyone who has had unusual reactions to thyroid hormones in the past should let his or her physician know before taking the drugs again. The physician should also be told about any allergies to foods, dyes, preservatives, or other substances.Before using thyroid hormones, people with any of these medical problems should make sure their physicians are aware of their conditions:

heart disease
high blood pressure
hardening of the arteries
diabetes
history of overactive thyroid
underactive adrenal gland
underactive pituitary gland

Side effects

This medicine usually does not cause side effects if the dosage is right. Certain symptoms may be signs that the dose needs to be changed. Check with a physician if any of these symptoms occur:

headache
fever
diarrhea
vomiting
changes in appetite
weight loss
changes in menstrual period
tremors of the hands
leg cramps
increased sensitivity to heat
sweating
irritability
nervousness
sleep problems

Other side effects are possible. Anyone who has unusual symptoms while taking thyroid hormones should get in touch with his or her physician.

Interactions

Thyroid hormones may interact with other medicines. This may increase or decrease the effects of the thyroid medicine and may interfere with treatment. Anyone who takes thyroid hormones should not take any other prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines without the approval of his or her physician. Among the drugs that may interact with thyroid hormones are:

Medicine for colds, hay fever, and other allergies
Medicine for asthma and other breathing problems
Medicine for diabetes
Blood thinners
Amphetamines
Diet pills (appetite suppressants)
Cholesterol-lowering drugs such as cholestyramine (Questran) and colestipol (Colestid).

Key terms

Adrenal glands — A pair of glands located next to the kidneys. The adrenal glands produce hormones that control many body functions.Hormone — A chemical that is produced in one part of the body and then travels through the bloodstream to another part of the body where it has its effect.Pituitary gland — A pea-sized gland at the base of the brain that produces many hormones that affect growth and body functions.

thyroid

[thi´roid] 1. the thyroid gland.2. pertaining to the thyroid gland.3. scutiform.4. a preparation of thyroid gland from domesticated food animals, containing levothyroxine and liothyronine and used as replacement therapy in the diagnosis and treatment of hypothyroidism and the prevention and treatment of goiter and thyroid carcinoma; administered orally.thyroid crisis a sudden and dangerous increase of the symptoms of thyrotoxicosis, seen in patients with severe hyperthyroidism or in the period immediately following a thyroidectomy. (However, good postoperative care and the use of radioiodine ablation techniques have greatly reduced the incidence of this once common postoperative complication.) Called also thyroid or thyrotoxic storm.

Thyroid crisis is a serious event that can be fatal if not brought under control. All of the body processes are accelerated to dangerously high levels. The pulse may rise to 200 beats per minute, and there is concurrent rise in the respiratory rate. The temperature control center loses control, bringing about a rapid and steady increase in body temperature. Pulmonary edema and congestive heart failure can also occur.
Treatment is aimed at correction of the hyperthyroidism, control of the symptoms, and prevention of further crisis by treating the underlying cause. Medications are employed to block synthesis of thyroid hormones, block their release, and inhibit conversion of triiodothyronine to thyroxine. plasmapheresis. plasma exchange, or hemodialysis may be necessary to remove the hormones from the circulation.
Supportive care includes administration of oxygen and measures to control hyperthermia, such as the use of ice packs or a hyperthermia blanket. Intravenous hydration is important to prevent shock. The use of glucocorticoids is associated with improved survival rates. propranolol, sympatholytics, and guanethidine are often used, as well as other medications that treat symptoms.thyroid function test a test of the functioning of the thyroid gland, such as its proper production of thyroid hormones. See radioiodineuptake test, thyroid-stimulating hormone test, thyrotropin-releasing hormone test, and triiodothyronine resin uptake test.thyroid gland the largest of the endocrine glands, consisting of two lateral lobes connected by an isthmus; a third pyramidal lobe sometimes extends up from the isthmus. The thyroid gland is located in the front and sides of the neck just below the thyroid cartilage and produces hormones that are vital in maintaining normal growth and metabolism (see thyroid hormones). It also serves as a storehouse for iodine.

Diagnostic tests for thyroid disorders include radioimmunoassay for T₃, T₄, and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), free thyroxine serum concentration, and free thyroxine index (FTI). These and other thyroid function tests can be distorted by preparations and foods containing iodine, and by oral contraceptives, phenytoin (Dilantin), and several other drugs. The thyroid scan is useful in detecting nodules and active thyroid tissue and, combined with radioactive iodine uptake, measures the ability of the thyroid gland to take in ingested iodine.
Persons who received radiation to the head and neck as children are at higher than normal risk for development of thyroid abnormalities. Of these disorders about one-third are carcinomas of the thyroid. Other problems related to radiation early in life include adenomas and other malignant and benign tumors, hypo- and hyperthyroidism, and thyroiditis. The American Thyroid Association suggests periodic laboratory testing and physical assessment of persons at high risk in order to detect these abnormalities when they are more amenable to treatment.

Thyroid gland.thyroid hormones iodothyronines secreted by the thyroid gland, principally thyroxine (tetraiodothyronine or T₄) and triiodothyronine (T₃). The serum level of T₄ is normally 45 to 50 times the level of T₃. However, T₃ is several times more active than T₄, and most T₃ is produced by metabolism of T₄ in peripheral tissues. The pharmaceutical names for T₄ and T₃ are levothyroxine" >levothyroxine and liothyronine" >liothyronine, respectively. Thyroid hormones influence many metabolic processes. They stimulate the cellular production of heat; stimulate protein synthesis; regulate many aspects of carbohydrate metabolism; stimulate lipid synthesis, mobilization, and degradation; stimulate the synthesis of coenzymes from vitamins; and may affect the response of tissues to epinephrine and norepinephrine.

Secretion of thyroid hormones is regulated by the hypothalamus-pituitary-thyroid control system. Internal environmental conditions, such as low thyroid hormone and norepinephrine serum levels, or external factors, such as cold and stress, activate the hypothalamus, which secretes thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH). This hormone acts on the pituitary gland and brings about the release of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). The TSH then stimulates the release of thyroid hormones such as T₃ and T₄ from the thyroid gland. When sufficient levels of serum thyroxine and other thyroid hormones have been reached, there is negative feedback to the hypothalamus and TRH is no longer secreted. See also hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.thyroid-stimulating hormone test a thyroid function test in which thyrotropin (thyroid-stimulating hormone) is administered intramuscularly and the thyroid gland is monitored over time with scintiscanning or radioimmunoassays for a response or areas of decreased responsiveness. Called also TSH test and TSH stimulation test.

Patient discussion about Thyroid Hormones

Q. Has anyone tried natural hormones for hypo-thyroidism or fibromyalgia? I am on the low normal range for hypo-thyroidism (do not take meds for) and was diagnosed years ago with fibromyalgia. I take Ultram for the pain which also helps my fatigue factor but I still feel so sluggish sometimes and just want to sleep. I'm on an anti-depressant as it is. I've been hearing more about natural hormone therapy for these conditions and was wondering if anyone out there has tried this.A. i have cfids and fibro as well as had my thyroid removed (parathyroid still in place). There really is no substitute for Synthroid that is as effective. There is with cfids and fibro. sensitivity to medications so the dosage normally given would not be the same usually lower dosages or 1/4 to 1/2 tabs. i have started on D-ribose, enada, COQ10, PB 8, Fish Oil with Omegas and primrose oil and B12 compounded shots in addition to other medications to treat medical issues that come along with the diseases. The first are homeopathic and are metabolized at a greater rate than synthetic meds which are often not processed correctly and may build up in your system. It is good to find a specialist [true specialist] or immunologist to help you with the medications and symptomologies that occur. Each person's system is different yet the way that it recognizes medications, food and such is similar and unique to the illnesses.

More discussions about Thyroid Hormones

单词	thyroid hormones
释义	DictionarySeethyroid hormone Thyroid Hormones Thyroid Hormones the hormones triiodothyronine and thyroxine, produced by the thyroid gland in animals and man. Thyroid hormones are formed from the amino acid tyrosine and iodine; they exert diverse influences on the body. The synthesis and entry of thyroid hormones into the blood are regulated by the central nervous system. Thyroid Hormones Thyroid Hormones Definition Thyroid hormones are artificially made hormones that make up for a lack of natural hormones produced by the thyroid gland. Purpose The thyroid gland, a butterfly-shaped structure in the lower part of the neck, normally produces a hormone called thyroxine. This hormone controls the rate of metabolism—all the physical and chemical processes that occur in cells to allow growth and maintain body functions. When the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroxine, body processes slow down. People with underactive thyroid glands feel unusually tired and may gain weight even though they eat less. They may also have trouble staying warm and may have other symptoms, such as dry skin, dry hair, and a puffy face. By making up for the lack of natural thyroxine and bringing the rate of metabolism back to normal, artificially made thyroid hormone improves these symptoms.Thyroid hormones also may be used to treat goiter (enlarged thyroid gland) and certain types of thyroid cancer. Description Thyroid hormones, also called thyroid drugs, are available only with a physician's prescription. They are sold in tablet form. A commonly used thyroid hormone is levothyroxine (Synthroid, Levoxyl, Levothroid). Recommended dosage For adults and teenagers, the usual starting dose of levothyroxine tablets is 0.0125 mg (12.5 micrograms) to 0.05 mg (50 micrograms) per day. The physician who prescribes the medicine may gradually increase the dose over time.For children, the dose depends on body weight and must be determined by a physician.Taking thyroid hormones exactly as directed is very important. The physician who prescribes the medicine will figure out exactly how much of the medicine a patient needs. Taking too much or too little can make the thyroid gland overactive or underactive.This medicine should be taken at the same time every day. Precautions People who take thyroid hormones because their thyroid glands do not produce enough natural hormone may need to take the medicine for the rest of their lives. Seeing a physician regularly while taking this medicine is important. The physician will make sure that the medicine is working and that the dosage is correct.In patients with certain kinds of heart disease, this medicine may cause chest pains and shortness of breath during exercise. People who have this problem should be careful not to exert themselves too much.Anyone who is taking thyroid hormones should be sure to tell the health care professional in charge before having any surgical or dental procedures or receiving emergency treatment.This medicine is safe to take during pregnancy, but the dosage may need to be changed. Women who are pregnant should check with their physicians to make sure they are taking the proper dosage.Anyone who has had unusual reactions to thyroid hormones in the past should let his or her physician know before taking the drugs again. The physician should also be told about any allergies to foods, dyes, preservatives, or other substances.Before using thyroid hormones, people with any of these medical problems should make sure their physicians are aware of their conditions: heart disease high blood pressure hardening of the arteries diabetes history of overactive thyroid underactive adrenal gland underactive pituitary gland Side effects This medicine usually does not cause side effects if the dosage is right. Certain symptoms may be signs that the dose needs to be changed. Check with a physician if any of these symptoms occur: headache fever diarrhea vomiting changes in appetite weight loss changes in menstrual period tremors of the hands leg cramps increased sensitivity to heat sweating irritability nervousness sleep problems Other side effects are possible. Anyone who has unusual symptoms while taking thyroid hormones should get in touch with his or her physician. Interactions Thyroid hormones may interact with other medicines. This may increase or decrease the effects of the thyroid medicine and may interfere with treatment. Anyone who takes thyroid hormones should not take any other prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines without the approval of his or her physician. Among the drugs that may interact with thyroid hormones are: Medicine for colds, hay fever, and other allergies Medicine for asthma and other breathing problems Medicine for diabetes Blood thinners Amphetamines Diet pills (appetite suppressants) Cholesterol-lowering drugs such as cholestyramine (Questran) and colestipol (Colestid). Key terms Adrenal glands — A pair of glands located next to the kidneys. The adrenal glands produce hormones that control many body functions.Hormone — A chemical that is produced in one part of the body and then travels through the bloodstream to another part of the body where it has its effect.Pituitary gland — A pea-sized gland at the base of the brain that produces many hormones that affect growth and body functions. thyroid [thi´roid] 1. the thyroid gland.2. pertaining to the thyroid gland.3. scutiform.4. a preparation of thyroid gland from domesticated food animals, containing levothyroxine and liothyronine and used as replacement therapy in the diagnosis and treatment of hypothyroidism and the prevention and treatment of goiter and thyroid carcinoma; administered orally.thyroid crisis a sudden and dangerous increase of the symptoms of thyrotoxicosis, seen in patients with severe hyperthyroidism or in the period immediately following a thyroidectomy. (However, good postoperative care and the use of radioiodine ablation techniques have greatly reduced the incidence of this once common postoperative complication.) Called also thyroid or thyrotoxic storm. Thyroid crisis is a serious event that can be fatal if not brought under control. All of the body processes are accelerated to dangerously high levels. The pulse may rise to 200 beats per minute, and there is concurrent rise in the respiratory rate. The temperature control center loses control, bringing about a rapid and steady increase in body temperature. Pulmonary edema and congestive heart failure can also occur. Treatment is aimed at correction of the hyperthyroidism, control of the symptoms, and prevention of further crisis by treating the underlying cause. Medications are employed to block synthesis of thyroid hormones, block their release, and inhibit conversion of triiodothyronine to thyroxine. plasmapheresis. plasma exchange, or hemodialysis may be necessary to remove the hormones from the circulation. Supportive care includes administration of oxygen and measures to control hyperthermia, such as the use of ice packs or a hyperthermia blanket. Intravenous hydration is important to prevent shock. The use of glucocorticoids is associated with improved survival rates. propranolol, sympatholytics, and guanethidine are often used, as well as other medications that treat symptoms.thyroid function test a test of the functioning of the thyroid gland, such as its proper production of thyroid hormones. See radioiodineuptake test, thyroid-stimulating hormone test, thyrotropin-releasing hormone test, and triiodothyronine resin uptake test.thyroid gland the largest of the endocrine glands, consisting of two lateral lobes connected by an isthmus; a third pyramidal lobe sometimes extends up from the isthmus. The thyroid gland is located in the front and sides of the neck just below the thyroid cartilage and produces hormones that are vital in maintaining normal growth and metabolism (see thyroid hormones). It also serves as a storehouse for iodine. Diagnostic tests for thyroid disorders include radioimmunoassay for T₃, T₄, and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), free thyroxine serum concentration, and free thyroxine index (FTI). These and other thyroid function tests can be distorted by preparations and foods containing iodine, and by oral contraceptives, phenytoin (Dilantin), and several other drugs. The thyroid scan is useful in detecting nodules and active thyroid tissue and, combined with radioactive iodine uptake, measures the ability of the thyroid gland to take in ingested iodine. Persons who received radiation to the head and neck as children are at higher than normal risk for development of thyroid abnormalities. Of these disorders about one-third are carcinomas of the thyroid. Other problems related to radiation early in life include adenomas and other malignant and benign tumors, hypo- and hyperthyroidism, and thyroiditis. The American Thyroid Association suggests periodic laboratory testing and physical assessment of persons at high risk in order to detect these abnormalities when they are more amenable to treatment.Thyroid gland.thyroid hormones iodothyronines secreted by the thyroid gland, principally thyroxine (tetraiodothyronine or T₄) and triiodothyronine (T₃). The serum level of T₄ is normally 45 to 50 times the level of T₃. However, T₃ is several times more active than T₄, and most T₃ is produced by metabolism of T₄ in peripheral tissues. The pharmaceutical names for T₄ and T₃ are levothyroxine" >levothyroxine and liothyronine" >liothyronine, respectively. Thyroid hormones influence many metabolic processes. They stimulate the cellular production of heat; stimulate protein synthesis; regulate many aspects of carbohydrate metabolism; stimulate lipid synthesis, mobilization, and degradation; stimulate the synthesis of coenzymes from vitamins; and may affect the response of tissues to epinephrine and norepinephrine. Secretion of thyroid hormones is regulated by the hypothalamus-pituitary-thyroid control system. Internal environmental conditions, such as low thyroid hormone and norepinephrine serum levels, or external factors, such as cold and stress, activate the hypothalamus, which secretes thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH). This hormone acts on the pituitary gland and brings about the release of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). The TSH then stimulates the release of thyroid hormones such as T₃ and T₄ from the thyroid gland. When sufficient levels of serum thyroxine and other thyroid hormones have been reached, there is negative feedback to the hypothalamus and TRH is no longer secreted. See also hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.thyroid-stimulating hormone test a thyroid function test in which thyrotropin (thyroid-stimulating hormone) is administered intramuscularly and the thyroid gland is monitored over time with scintiscanning or radioimmunoassays for a response or areas of decreased responsiveness. Called also TSH test and TSH stimulation test. Patient discussion about Thyroid Hormones Q. Has anyone tried natural hormones for hypo-thyroidism or fibromyalgia? I am on the low normal range for hypo-thyroidism (do not take meds for) and was diagnosed years ago with fibromyalgia. I take Ultram for the pain which also helps my fatigue factor but I still feel so sluggish sometimes and just want to sleep. I'm on an anti-depressant as it is. I've been hearing more about natural hormone therapy for these conditions and was wondering if anyone out there has tried this.A. i have cfids and fibro as well as had my thyroid removed (parathyroid still in place). There really is no substitute for Synthroid that is as effective. There is with cfids and fibro. sensitivity to medications so the dosage normally given would not be the same usually lower dosages or 1/4 to 1/2 tabs. i have started on D-ribose, enada, COQ10, PB 8, Fish Oil with Omegas and primrose oil and B12 compounded shots in addition to other medications to treat medical issues that come along with the diseases. The first are homeopathic and are metabolized at a greater rate than synthetic meds which are often not processed correctly and may build up in your system. It is good to find a specialist [true specialist] or immunologist to help you with the medications and symptomologies that occur. Each person's system is different yet the way that it recognizes medications, food and such is similar and unique to the illnesses. More discussions about Thyroid Hormones
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