Hypothyroidism refers to a condition where in the body does not have enough thyroid hormone. The lack in thyroid hormone is due to the inability of the thyroid gland to produce more of such hormone. Since the hormone is very important in the body’s metabolism, individual’s suffering from hypothyroidism experience slow metabolism and other related issues. In some cases, even physical and mental growth is affected. According to estimates, millions of Americans are diagnosed with hypothyroidism every year. More importantly, women are usually more prone into developing such a condition than men. Because of its prevalence, there has been great interest over developing different kinds of hypothyroidism treatments.
Thyroid Hormone Replacement Therapy
One of the most effective types of treatment is the thyroid hormone replacement therapy. Since the condition is characterized by the lack of hormone, it is only necessary to replace the missing hormone. To further understand the idea behind thyroid hormone replacement therapy, it’s best to learn about the interaction of the two thyroid hormones: T3 and T4. T3 is known as triiodothyronine while T4 is known as tetraiodothyronine or thyroxine. T3 and T4 are both important in a person’s metabolism. If the body does not have enough T3 and T3, metabolism can be greatly affected. Likewise, the body’s rate of energy use is also affected. Although T3 is considered as the more active type of hormone, T4 is also considered just as important. In fact, T4 is more linked to hypothyroidism treatment than T3. The main reason is that T3 hormones are in fact previously T4 hormones. The main benefit of having a T4 therapy is that the body gains the ability some of the functions it needs to do before the thyroid gland malfunctioned. Further, the half life of a T4 hormone is said to be longer than the T3. This is where the importance of T4 therapy comes in.
T4 Supplement
Aside from the T4 therapy, T4 supplements also count as a treatment for hypothyroidism. Specifically, T4 supplement for hypothyroidism is done through the administration of a synthetic thyroid hormone collectively referred to as levothyroxine. Throughout the years, T4 supplementation has been considered as the standard treatment/medication for such condition. Other types of T4 supplements which may be used include:
Levo-T
Novothyrox
Levothyroxine Sodium
Synthroid
Levoxyl
UNITHROID
Synthroid is considered as the most prescribed type of T4 when dealing with hypothyroidism. It is capable of giving a steady and extended stream of T4 for the body to use. It is also very cost effective compared to the other synthetic forms of T4. Other treatments may also be prescribed but that depends on the condition and the doctor.
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