Evidence supporting the use of: Porcine
For the body system: Thyroid Gland

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4

Porcine thyroid, also known as desiccated thyroid extract, is derived from the thyroid glands of pigs and has a long history of use in supporting the thyroid gland, particularly in the management of hypothyroidism. Its use dates back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries before synthetic thyroid hormones became widely available. Porcine thyroid contains both thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), the same hormones produced by the human thyroid gland, making it physiologically relevant for thyroid hormone replacement.

There is substantial scientific validation for its efficacy in treating hypothyroidism, particularly before the introduction of levothyroxine (synthetic T4). Several studies have demonstrated that porcine thyroid extract can normalize thyroid hormone levels and alleviate symptoms of hypothyroidism. However, concerns exist regarding consistency in hormone content and potential for variable dosing. Modern clinical guidelines generally recommend synthetic levothyroxine as the first-line treatment due to its stability and precise dosing, but desiccated thyroid extract remains an option for patients who do not achieve symptom relief with synthetic preparations.

Overall, porcine thyroid’s use to support the thyroid gland is rooted in both historical practice and scientific evidence, especially in the context of thyroid hormone replacement therapy. While not universally recommended as the first-line treatment today, its biological rationale and efficacy are well-established in scientific literature.

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