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Thyroid Tissue

Also known as: Thyroid tissue, Natural thyroid extract, Thyroid glandular, Desiccated Thyroid Extract

Overview

Desiccated Thyroid Extract (DTE), also known as natural thyroid extract or thyroid glandular, is a supplement derived from dried and powdered animal thyroid glands, commonly porcine. It contains naturally occurring thyroid hormones, primarily T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine), along with other thyroid components. DTE is primarily used for the treatment of hypothyroidism, particularly by patients seeking a 'natural' alternative to synthetic thyroid hormone replacement like levothyroxine. Unlike synthetic hormones, DTE provides both T3 and T4 in a fixed ratio, though its hormone content can be variable and less standardized. While synthetic levothyroxine is well-studied and generally favored by medical guidelines due to its consistency and extensive safety data, DTE has fewer high-quality randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews supporting its widespread use.

Benefits

The primary benefit of Desiccated Thyroid Extract (DTE) is its ability to supply exogenous thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) to normalize thyroid function in individuals with hypothyroidism. Some patients report symptomatic improvement and enhanced quality of life when using DTE compared to levothyroxine monotherapy, potentially due to its T3 content, which may better address peripheral thyroid hormone signaling. This perceived benefit is particularly noted in patients who do not feel well or achieve optimal symptom control on levothyroxine alone. However, the evidence supporting DTE's superiority or even equivalence to levothyroxine is mixed, with a lack of large-scale meta-analyses conclusively demonstrating its advantages. Clinical trials are often small and heterogeneous, making definitive conclusions challenging. The effects of hormone replacement, including DTE, are typically observed within weeks of initiation.

How it works

Desiccated Thyroid Extract (DTE) functions by supplying exogenous thyroid hormones, specifically T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine), to the body. Once absorbed, these hormones bind to nuclear thyroid hormone receptors (TRα and TRβ) located in the nuclei of target cells throughout the body. This binding initiates gene transcription, regulating various metabolic processes, growth, and development. By providing these essential hormones, DTE helps to restore a euthyroid (normal thyroid) state, thereby influencing and optimizing the function of multiple body systems, including the cardiovascular, metabolic, neurological, and endocrine systems. The T3 component of DTE is absorbed faster than T4, which can lead to more rapid effects but also potential peaks and troughs in hormone levels.

Side effects

Desiccated Thyroid Extract (DTE) is generally safe when administered at appropriate dosages and monitored carefully. However, overdose can lead to symptoms of hyperthyroidism. Common side effects, often indicative of excessive dosage, include palpitations, nervousness, insomnia, and unintended weight loss. Less common side effects may include allergic reactions and gastrointestinal discomfort. Rare but serious side effects can involve thyrotoxic crisis and cardiac arrhythmias, particularly in susceptible individuals. DTE's absorption can be significantly affected by other substances; it interacts with calcium, iron, and certain other supplements, as well as medications like anticoagulants. Contraindications for DTE use include untreated thyrotoxicosis, acute myocardial infarction, and uncorrected adrenal insufficiency. Caution is advised when prescribing DTE to elderly patients, individuals with pre-existing cardiac conditions, and pregnant women, due to potential risks and the need for careful monitoring.

Dosage

The dosage of Desiccated Thyroid Extract (DTE) is highly individualized and must be carefully titrated based on patient symptoms and laboratory monitoring, primarily TSH levels. Treatment typically begins with a low dose, which is gradually increased until an optimal therapeutic effect is achieved. DTE is commonly dosed in 'grains,' with 1 grain approximately equivalent to 60 mg. There is no single optimal dosage range, as it varies significantly among individuals and their specific needs. The maximum safe dose is determined by avoiding overtreatment and hyperthyroidism, guided by clinical assessment and laboratory results. DTE should ideally be taken on an empty stomach, typically in the morning, and separated from other medications and supplements that can interfere with its absorption, such as calcium and iron. While standardized preparations are preferred, variability can exist between different brands of DTE. Adequate iodine status is important for overall thyroid health, though not a direct cofactor for DTE's action.

FAQs

Is thyroid tissue supplement safe?

Generally safe if carefully monitored by a healthcare professional, but variability in hormone content can pose risks if not properly managed.

Is it better than synthetic levothyroxine?

No conclusive evidence suggests it's superior. Levothyroxine remains the first-line treatment due to its consistency and extensive safety data.

Can it cause hyperthyroidism?

Yes, if the dosage is too high, it can lead to symptoms of hyperthyroidism such as palpitations, nervousness, and weight loss.

How quickly does it work?

Effects are typically observed within a few weeks of starting treatment, but ongoing monitoring of symptoms and lab values is crucial.

Can it be taken with other supplements?

It should be spaced apart from supplements like calcium, iron, and certain vitamins to prevent interference with its absorption.

Research Sources

  • https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11652148/ – This systematic review and network meta-analysis by Peng et al. (2024) investigated various supplements for Hashimoto's thyroiditis, finding that selenium significantly reduced thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPOAb) and thyroglobulin antibodies (TgAb). While it highlights the role of supplements in autoimmune thyroid disease, it did not directly assess desiccated thyroid tissue supplements, indicating a gap in direct evidence for DTE in this context.
  • https://apm.amegroups.org/article/view/67466/html – Zuo et al. (2021) conducted a meta-analysis on selenium in autoimmune thyroid disease, concluding that selenium combined with antithyroid drugs reduced TPOAb levels. Similar to Peng et al., this study focuses on selenium supplementation rather than thyroid tissue extracts, further underscoring the limited direct evidence for desiccated thyroid supplements in autoimmune thyroid conditions.
  • https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6408586/ – This source, likely a review or guideline, discusses the general landscape of thyroid hormone replacement. It emphasizes that while levothyroxine is the standard, some patients may not achieve optimal well-being, suggesting a potential role for combination therapies or alternatives like DTE, though it doesn't provide direct evidence for DTE's superiority.
  • https://academic.oup.com/jcem/article/103/12/4533/5074280 – McAninch and Bianco (2018) reviewed levothyroxine (LT4) therapy, noting that while it normalizes TSH, it may not fully restore peripheral thyroid hormone signaling in all patients. They suggest that some individuals might benefit from therapies including T3, such as desiccated thyroid, but call for larger, more robust studies to confirm this, acknowledging the current lack of definitive evidence for DTE's superiority.
  • https://www.btf-thyroid.org/diets-and-supplements-for-thyroid-disorders – This resource from the British Thyroid Foundation provides general information on diets and supplements for thyroid disorders. It likely offers a balanced view on various approaches, including natural thyroid extracts, but typically aligns with mainstream medical guidelines that prioritize synthetic levothyroxine due to its standardization and extensive research.

Supplements Containing Thyroid Tissue

TG 100 Natural Glandulars by Allergy Research Group
70

TG 100 Natural Glandulars

Allergy Research Group

Score: 70/100
Thyroxin-Free Thyroid Glandular 200 mg by Swanson Premium Brand
38

Thyroxin-Free Thyroid Glandular 200 mg

Swanson Premium Brand

Score: 38/100
Thyroid-120 by MBi Nutraceuticals
78

Thyroid-120

MBi Nutraceuticals

Score: 78/100
Glucogen Complex by Metabolic Code
65

Glucogen Complex

Metabolic Code

Score: 65/100
Thyro Complex by Metabolic Code
78

Thyro Complex

Metabolic Code

Score: 78/100
Metabolic Thyro by FOOD RESEARCH™
63

Metabolic Thyro

FOOD RESEARCH™

Score: 63/100
The Natural Desiccated Thyroid 450mg by RæNA
68

The Natural Desiccated Thyroid 450mg

RæNA

Score: 68/100
BIO FUNCTION Ks KIDNEY S by Systemic Formulas Inc.
0

BIO FUNCTION Ks KIDNEY S

Systemic Formulas Inc.

Score: 0/100
ECO THYRO37 by FPP® Professional Health Products
0

ECO THYRO37

FPP® Professional Health Products

Score: 0/100

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