What are they?
Thyroid extracts are thyroid extracts derived from the thyroid glands of usually bovine
(beef) sources.
The hormones of the thyroid gland regulate metabolism in every cell of the body. The
medical treatment of underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) usually involves a prescription of
synthetic thyroid hormones (thyroxine and/or
triiodothyronine) or thyroid extract (desiccated thyroid). The difference between prescription
thyroid extract and the thyroid extracts sold as nutritional supplements is the latter are
required by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to be free of the known active thyroid hormones (thyroxine and triiodothyronine). The
use of hormone-free thyroid preparations has not been evaluated in scientific studies, but
some doctors believe these products may provide nutritional support to the thyroid gland or
contain other compounds with possible hormonal activity.
Where are they found?
Thyroid extracts are available as nutritional supplements in capsules and tablets.
Thyroid extracts have been
used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the
individual health concern for complete information):
Who is likely to be deficient?
As thyroid extract is not an essential nutrient, therefore, no deficiency state exists.
How much is usually taken?
The recommended intake depends on the concentration, method of preparation, and quality of
the thyroid extract. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation on the label.
Are there any side effects or interactions?
No side effects or adverse reactions have been reported. However, people taking
prescription thyroid hormones should consult
their doctor before using non-prescription thyroid extracts.
At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions
with thyroid extracts.
Copyright © 2006 Healthnotes, Inc. All rights reserved.
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The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes
only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical
experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not
necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with
prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor,
practitioner, and/or chemist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before
making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires March 2007.
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