Treating primary hypothyroidism with weekly doses of levothyroxine: a randomized, single-blind, crossover study.

doi:10.1590/S0004-27302012000400006

Paper

Treating primary hypothyroidism with weekly doses of levothyroxine: a randomized, single-blind, crossover study.

Published Jun 1, 2012 ·

Arquivos brasileiros de endocrinologia e metabologia

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Abstract

OBJECTIVE Compliance to levothyroxine treatment in hypothyroidism is compromised by daily schedule, and a weekly dose may be an alternative. SUBJECTS AND METHODS This was a randomized, crossover study. Fourteen females were assigned to daily or weekly doses of LT4. After six weeks, they switched regimens. Thyroid parameters were measured at baseline, and after 42 and 84 days. Echocardiogram and hyperthyroidism symptoms were evaluated before and four hours after LT4 intake. RESULTS In the weekly dose treatment, fT4 levels were higher after taking LT4, and lower seven days after the last dose; by the 6(th) week there was a small decrease in T3 levels. TSH remained unchanged and there were no hyperthyroidism symptoms or echocardiographic manifestations. CONCLUSION Weekly dose leads to transient increases in fT4, without hyperthyroidism or cardiac symptoms. That approach seems to be a safe alternative for the treatment of hypothyroidism.

RCT

Study Snapshot

A weekly dose of levothyroxine is a safe alternative for treating primary hypothyroidism, leading to transient increases in fT4 levels without hyperthyroidism or cardiac symptoms.

PopulationOlder adults (50-71 years)

Sample size24

MethodsObservational

OutcomesBody Mass Index projections

ResultsSocial networks mitigate obesity in older groups.

Treating primary hypothyroidism with weekly doses of levothyroxine: a randomized, single-blind, crossover study.

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