Let’s explore a potentially concerning new angle regarding levothyroxine, a widely used thyroid medication. This drug, commonly prescribed to older adults for symptom management of drooping thyroid function, might be linked to bone loss, especially in those with normal thyroid levels.
A recent Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine study examined a small group of individuals over 65. Shockingly, those taking levothyroxine, despite having normal thyroid function, showed a decline in bone mass and density over six years.
While levothyroxine is often a lifeline for those with age-related thyroid deficiency, experts like Dr. Sean Ormond of Atlas Pain Specialists warn of its potentially over prescription in older adults. Dr. Ormond states, “Levothyroxine is a very common medication because thyroid problems become more likely as we age. Older adults are more prone to hypothyroidism… When the thyroid underperforms, people often feel tired, gain weight, get cold easily, or even feel depressed. These symptoms can make life tough, so doctors often prescribe levothyroxine to restore hormone levels and help people feel like themselves again.”
This raises the question: are some individuals being overmedicated?
Previous research by the same Johns Hopkins team found a connection between levothyroxine use (arguably unneeded) in older adults and leg muscle loss.
More documentation emphasizing the potential downsides of levothyroxine adds a layer of complexity to the conversation surrounding its use. We must further explore whether seasonal variations in thyroid hormone levels are being properly accounted for in diagnoses, potentially leading to unnecessary prescriptions.
Dr. Sue Clenton, a consultant oncologist at Weston Park Cancer Centre in Sheffield, UK, emphasizes the increasing need for individualized treatment plans. She states, “Indications for prescribing levothyroxine include elevated TSH levels (indicating an underactive thyroid), fatigue, weight gain, and cognitive slowing. However, deprescribing may be considered if a patient experiences side effects like rapid heart rate, anxiety, or bone loss, or if their thyroid function tests normalize.”
This situation highlights a vital point – that medication, even when well-intentioned, doesn’t always come without risks. Approaching medication with a personalized mindset, alongside careful monitoring, is crucial, especially for older adults.
Ultimately, open dialogues between patients, doctors, and researchers are essential for ensuring safe and effective thyroid treatment strategies. More research on the potential link between levothyroxine and bone loss, particularly in individuals with normal thyroid function, is critical to making informed decisions about this commonly prescribed drug.
