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New study: Thyroxine is not always necessary for life – what patients should know”
Find out when it might make sense to stop thyroxine if you have an underactive thyroid - a current study sheds light on important patient groups.
New study: Thyroxine is not always necessary for life – what patients should know”
The management of thyroid disease and the use of thyroxine occupy a central role in the medical community. A recent study now shows that a significant proportion of patients may not need to take the hormone for life. This article highlights the potential and challenges of these findings.
Remaining options for hypothyroidism
In an important study, scientists have found that about a third of hypothyroid patients who use thyroxine may be able to stop taking the drug without their thyroid levels worsening. This study, as by 24vita.de reported, contradicts long-held assumptions about the need for continuous hormone replacement therapy.
Importance of individualizing therapy
This finding is particularly relevant because many patients take hormones for years. Dr. Joachim Feldkamp, chief physician at the Clinic for General Internal Medicine and Endocrinology at the Bielefeld Mitte Clinic, identifies several patient groups who could potentially benefit from discontinuing thyroxine. These include:
- Patienten mit einer Vorgeschichte von Schilddrüsenknoten, die ursprünglich behandelt wurden.
- Patienten mit nur geringfügig erhöhtem schilddrüsenstimulierendem Hormon (TSH) zu Beginn.
- Patienten, die nur einen Teil ihrer Schilddrüse entfernt bekommen haben.
- Junge Menschen mit Hashimoto, bei denen nur leichte TSH-Erhöhungen vorliegen.
Risks of excessive hormone replacement therapy
The potential risks of long-term use should be given particular consideration in older patients. Dr. Feldkamp points out that about 30% of people over 60 develop complications such as atrial fibrillation when TSH levels are kept excessively low. This makes it clear that a critical review of long-term therapies is necessary.
Questioning recommendations from the past
Medical recommendations have changed significantly over the last few decades. In the past, thyroid nodules were often treated with hormones to inhibit their growth. This practice has been shown to be less effective and current guidelines suggest that therapy should be individualized and started only when necessary. This development underlines the importance of regular re-evaluation of treatment methods, especially when changing doctors.
Nutritional recommendations
The interactions between thyroxine and various foods should not be underestimated. Patients are advised to pay attention to the consumption of certain foods, as nuts, coffee and even contraceptives can affect the effect of hormones. Understanding these aspects not only improves therapy outcomes but also supports patients' overall health preparation.
Please note that this article does not replace individual medical advice. Patients should always consult a specialist to develop a safe and effective treatment strategy. However, the new study opens important discussions about the necessity and duration of hormone replacement therapy, which can have a lasting impact on the quality of life of those affected.