Understanding Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism, or underactive thyroid, occurs when your thyroid gland is not making enough thyroid hormone. The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped gland that is located in your neck, just below the voice box or larynx. Thyroid hormone works to regulate your metabolism, or the way your body uses energy. Because the symptoms of hypothyroidism can disguise themselves as simple day-to-day ailments, many patients live with the condition for years before they seek treatment.¹

Patient Resources Information

For more information, the following resources may be helpful.

• https://www.thyroid.org/
• https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/endocrine-diseases/hypothyroidism
• https://medlineplus.gov/hypothyroidism.html

Having hypothyroidism means that your thyroid gland is not producing enough of the thyroid hormone that regulates your metabolism. As a result, you may experience one or more of the following symptoms:¹

• Sluggishness and fatigue
• Weight gain
• Forgetfulness
• Feeling sad or depressed
• Dry skin, brittle hair
• Constipation
• Sore muscles
• Heavy or more frequent menstrual periods

A comprehensive list of other symptoms associated with hypothyroidism and more information about thyroid disease can be found by visiting the American Thyroid Association website at www.thyroid.org.

For most patients with hypothyroidism, levothyroxine is the treatment of choice. Both synthetic and naturally derived levothyroxine are commonly prescribed to replace or supplement the hormone that is typically produced by the body’s thyroid gland. Levothyroxine is intended for long-term use.

Managing hypothyroidism with levothyroxine requires taking a precise dose of your prescribed therapy every day. Your doctor will perform tests to determine what dose of your medication is right for you. These tests help your doctor determine if you are maintaining consistent levels of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) within your body. If your TSH level remains too low with your current dose, you may not experience relief from your hypothyroidism symptoms. To read more about the TSH test, click here.¹