1. Hyperthyroidism Slideshow Pictures
2. Take the Thyroid Disorder Quiz
3. Thyroid Symptoms and Solutions Slideshow Pictures

Medical Author:

Ruchi Mathur, MD, FRCP(C)

Ruchi Mathur, MD, FRCP(C)

Ruchi Mathur, MD, FRCP(C) is an Attending Physician with the Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism and Associate Director of Clinical Research, Recruitment and Phenotyping with the Center for Androgen Related Disorders, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center.

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Medical Editor:

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology.

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If thyroid hormone deficiency is noted on blood tests, the treatment involves daily dosing of a synthetic form of thyroid hormone. This may be in the form of levothyroxine, which is synthetic T4 (Levothroid, Levoxyl, Synthroid), or occasionally in the form of liothyronine sodium (Cytomel, Triostat) (a synthetic T3).

There are other versions of thyroid hormone available (such as Armour thyroid, which is a combination of T3 and T4) but the details regarding these regimens are beyond the scope of this article. Oral medications can restore hormone levels and reverse the symptoms of hypothyroidism, but they must be taken regularly and over the long term. Dosing is adjusted based on blood levels. Levels are usually checked every 6-12 weeks when the medication is actively being adjusted, and 6-12 months thereafter once stable.

Side effects of over-replacement are similar to those of hyperthyroidism, and may include palpitations, tremors, nervousness, sweating, and restlessness.

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