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

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Synopsis

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

Thyroid extract, typically derived from desiccated animal thyroid glands (most commonly porcine), has a long history of use in medicine for the treatment of hypothyroidism—a condition where the thyroid gland fails to produce sufficient thyroid hormone. The use of thyroid extract to support the thyroid gland is strongly supported by scientific evidence. These extracts contain both thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), the main hormones produced by the human thyroid gland. Before the development of synthetic levothyroxine (T4) in the mid-20th century, desiccated thyroid was the standard treatment for hypothyroidism and is still prescribed in some countries and clinical scenarios.

Numerous clinical studies and decades of medical practice have shown that thyroid extract can effectively normalize thyroid hormone levels in patients with underactive thyroid glands, alleviating symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, and depression. However, dosing can be less precise compared to synthetic preparations, and there is potential for variability in hormone content between batches. Modern guidelines typically recommend synthetic levothyroxine as first-line therapy due to its consistent potency and safety profile. Nevertheless, the effectiveness of desiccated thyroid extract is well-documented, and its use is based on clear scientific principles regarding thyroid hormone replacement. Thus, the use of thyroid extract to support the thyroid gland is justified by robust scientific evidence, particularly in cases of diagnosed hypothyroidism.

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