At Austin Thyroid & Endocrinology, we prioritize patient education to help you make informed decisions about your thyroid health. One of the most common questions we receive is about the safety and effectiveness of desiccated thyroid extract (DTE) compared to synthetic thyroid hormones. Here’s what you need to know, explained by Dr. Scumpia.
What Is Desiccated Thyroid Extract (DTE)?
Desiccated thyroid extract is derived from the thyroid glands of animals, typically pigs. Common brands like Armour Thyroid contain a fixed ratio of thyroid hormones:
- T4 (thyroxine) and T3 (triiodothyronine) in approximately a 4:1 ratio.
This differs significantly from human thyroid hormone secretion, which has a much higher ratio of T4 to T3 (~20:1). While DTE is considered a “natural” option, its composition may not align with the body’s needs, especially for patients with underlying health conditions. DTE is derived from the thyroid glands of animals, most commonly pigs. It contains a fixed ratio of T4 (thyroxine) and T3 (triiodothyronine), typically around 4:1. This ratio does not reflect the body’s natural hormone secretion, which is closer to 20:1 in humans.
The higher T3 content in DTE can cause rapid fluctuations in hormone levels, leading to dangerous side effects and making it difficult to maintain optimal thyroid balance.
Synthetic Thyroid Hormones
Synthetic medications like levothyroxine (T4) and liothyronine (T3) are designed to mimic the body’s natural hormones:
- Levothyroxine provides a steady supply of T4, which the body converts into T3 as needed.
- Liothyronine delivers T3 directly and is often used in combination with T4 in specific cases.
These medications allow for more precise control of hormone levels and are considered the gold standard for most patients.
Risks of High T3 Levels with DTE
One of the main concerns with DTE is its higher T3 content, which can lead to health risks, particularly for certain patients:
1. Cardiac Effects
- T3 directly affects the heart by binding to receptors in the myocardium (heart muscle).
- Excess T3 can cause:
- Tachycardia (rapid heart rate)
- Arrhythmias, such as atrial fibrillation
- Increased risk of heart failure or myocardial ischemia (reduced blood supply to the heart).
2. Bone Health
- High T3 levels accelerate bone turnover, increasing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
At Austin Thyroid & Endocrinology, our mission is to provide evidence-based, safe, and effective treatments for thyroid disorders. While some patients inquire about desiccated thyroid extract (DTE), such as Armour Thyroid, we do not recommend its use due to the significant risks associated with its higher T3 content.
Here’s why Dr. Scumpia and our team strongly advise against using DTE for thyroid hormone replacement therapy.
The Dangers of Desiccated Thyroid Extract
1. Cardiovascular Risks
- T3 directly affects the heart by binding to receptors in the myocardium (heart muscle), which can overstimulate cardiac activity.
- High T3 levels can result in:
- Tachycardia (persistent rapid heart rate)
- Atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat), especially in older patients
- Increased risk of heart failure or myocardial ischemia (reduced blood flow to the heart).
For patients with pre-existing heart conditions, these risks are especially concerning and potentially life-threatening.
2. Increased Risk of Osteoporosis
- Elevated T3 levels accelerate bone turnover, weakening bone density and increasing the likelihood of fractures, particularly in postmenopausal women and older adults.
3. Unpredictable Hormone Levels
- The fixed T4:T3 ratio in DTE does not allow for individualization of treatment.
- Patients often experience hormone surges, leading to symptoms like palpitations, anxiety, and sweating, which mimic hyperthyroidism.
- Synthetic medications offer more consistent and precise dosing, making them safer and more effective.
Why Synthetic Thyroid Hormones Are Superior
At Austin Thyroid & Endocrinology, we recommend synthetic thyroid hormones like levothyroxine (T4) for the following reasons:
- Consistency: Levothyroxine allows the body to convert T4 into T3 as needed, closely mimicking natural thyroid function.
- Safety: Synthetic T4 minimizes the risk of cardiovascular and bone-related complications.
- Customizable Dosing: Dosages can be tailored to the individual, ensuring precise and effective treatment.
For patients requiring T3 supplementation, we may recommend a carefully monitored combination of levothyroxine and liothyronine (T3), avoiding the unpredictable effects of DTE.
Our Stance: Prioritizing Patient Safety
At Austin Thyroid & Endocrinology, we prioritize patient safety. Based on decades of research and clinical expertise, we do not condone the use of desiccated thyroid extract because it can cause serious health complications.Just because it makes your feel good doesn’t mean it’s safe. A lot of drugs make you feel good but are very dangerous.
If you have questions about your thyroid health or concerns about your current treatment, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with our team. Together, we’ll develop a personalized plan that ensures your long-term health and well-being.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit Austin Thyroid & Endocrinology or call us at 512-467-2727
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