Thyroid Underactivity: Could Your Case be Overmedicated?

In the journey of managing hypothyroidism, it's crucial to strike a balance in the dosage of the prescribed thyroid hormone. This condition, characterised by the thyroid gland producing too little thyroid hormone, can be treated with the thyroid hormone T4, which works by replacing the missing thyroid hormone in the body.

However, overtreatment can lead to a host of unwanted symptoms. These may include anxiety, mood swings, hand tremors, diarrhea, muscle weakness, weight loss, sleep and focus difficulties, abnormally increased heart rate, forgetfulness, and a return or worsening of symptoms. Mild overtreatment may present as feeling hot or shaky, heart palpitations, difficulty falling asleep, and excessive sweating.

Overtreatment of hypothyroidism also increases the risk of developing osteoporosis, a low bone-mass disorder that leads to easy fracturing. Moreover, it places you at risk of developing heart arrhythmias.

Two groups of people with hypothyroidism are at high risk of complications from overtreatment: those with heart rhythm disturbances (arrhythmias) and elderly people with weak bones.

It's important to note that the dose of thyroid hormone is based on your weight, but your doctor needs to monitor your blood levels due to potential absorption problems. If you suspect you're being overtreated, it's best not to adjust the dose yourself. Instead, call your doctor and explain your symptoms.

In some cases, a medication containing both T4 and T3, another thyroid hormone, may be prescribed. The correct dose adjustment will soon have you feeling a whole lot better.

Avoiding overtreatment or undertreatment is essential for feeling your best, according to endocrinologist Mario Skugor, MD. It's also crucial to report a weight gain or loss of 10% or more to your doctor right away to avoid any issues.

Finally, it's worth mentioning that certain medications can contribute to over- or under-treatment. The most common drugs that can cause an oversupply (hyperthyroidism) of thyroid hormones include levothyroxine (a synthetic thyroid hormone used for thyroid hormone replacement therapy) and iodine-containing medications. Additionally, amiodarone can induce hyperthyroidism, while lithium can induce hypothyroidism but is related to thyroid function disturbances.

In conclusion, managing hypothyroidism requires careful monitoring and adjustment of thyroid hormone dosage to avoid both overtreatment and undertreatment. Always consult with your doctor if you have concerns about your treatment.