Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4

Thyroid substance, often referred to as desiccated thyroid extract, has a well-established history of use in supporting the thyroid gland, especially in the management of hypothyroidism. Derived from the dried thyroid glands of pigs (porcine thyroid), it contains both thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), the two primary hormones produced by the human thyroid gland. Before the advent of synthetic levothyroxine (T4), desiccated thyroid was the mainstay of hypothyroidism treatment. Numerous clinical reports and case series from the early to mid-20th century document its efficacy in relieving hypothyroid symptoms and normalizing metabolic parameters. Today, synthetic T4 is preferred due to its precise dosing and safety profile, but desiccated thyroid is still prescribed to patients who do not respond well to synthetic hormones or who prefer a "natural" option.

Scientific validation comes from the fact that desiccated thyroid provides bioidentical T4 and T3, both of which are essential for normal thyroid function. Randomized studies comparing desiccated thyroid to synthetic levothyroxine generally find no significant differences in efficacy, though some patients report subjective improvements on desiccated preparations. Major guidelines, including those from the American Thyroid Association, still recognize desiccated thyroid as an alternative therapy, though they caution about variability in hormone content and recommend careful monitoring. In summary, there is strong scientific and clinical support for the use of thyroid substance in supporting thyroid gland function, especially in cases of hypothyroidism.

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