From the Research
Mechanism of Action of Armour Thyroid
The mechanism of action of Armour Thyroid, a desiccated thyroid extract, involves the replacement of thyroid hormones in individuals with hypothyroidism. The exact mechanism is not fully understood, but it is believed to work by providing a combination of thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) hormones, which are essential for normal thyroid function 1.
Alternating Dose Regimen
There is limited research on the specific use of an alternating dose regimen with Armour Thyroid. However, studies have shown that some patients may benefit from combination therapy with levothyroxine (LT4) and liothyronine (LT3), which is similar to the hormone composition of desiccated thyroid extract 1.
Key Findings
- Desiccated thyroid extract (DTE) contains a mixture of T4 and T3 in a fixed ratio, which may be beneficial for some patients with hypothyroidism who do not respond to levothyroxine therapy alone 1, 2.
- Some studies have reported improved symptoms and quality of life in patients treated with DTE compared to levothyroxine therapy 3, 2.
- However, other studies have found no significant difference in quality of life or symptom scores between DTE and other thyroid hormone replacement therapies 4.
Potential Benefits and Risks
- Potential benefits of using Armour Thyroid include improved symptoms and quality of life in some patients with hypothyroidism 3, 2.
- Potential risks include increased heart rate, lower body weight, and lower high-density lipoprotein compared to other treatment regimens, although results are conflicting 4.
Clinical Use
- Clinical evaluation can identify individuals with sub-laboratory hypothyroidism who may benefit from thyroid replacement therapy, including Armour Thyroid 5.
- Some patients may require individualized therapy approaches, and desiccated thyroid extract may be considered for those who do not respond to traditional levothyroxine therapy 3, 2.