Desiccated Thyroid
Desiccated thyroid is dried and powdered thyroid gland derived from porcine (pig) tissue.
Desiccated thyroid is available in generic form or compounded by pharmacists in various dosages and contains both thyroid hormones, triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) at various ratios.
Desiccated thyroid requires a prescription and is commonly delivered orally in tablet or capsule form. The benefit of using desiccated thyroid comes from the addition of T3, the most metabolically active thyroid. Thyroid medication used in traditional therapy is synthesized and is referred to as levothyroxine (T4) or liothyronine (T3). Treatment, by this method allows for the full spectrum of thyroid hormones instead of just T4.
Desiccated thyroid is used to treat low thyroid function or hypothyroidism. As a result, desiccated thyroid can help improve energy, body temperature, hair growth, sleep, skin, mood, and metabolism.
Before considering dessicated thyroid, it is best to test your blood thyroid hormone levels prior to receiving desiccated thyroid and periodically after in order to monitor your levels and adjust the dosage as required.
Desiccated thyroid is not for everyone. If you are not sure if dessicated thyroid is right for you, consult with your Naturopathic Doctor. Alternatively, here are other methods that can be used to help the thyroid including diet, botanical medicine and supplementation.
