The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the front of the neck, which produces thyroid hormones, or “chemical messengers,” that signal cells throughout the body to increase oxygen use. The two key thyroid hormones are L-triiodothyronine (T3) — the more biologically active thyroid hormone — and thyroxine (T4).8
Hypothyroidism occurs when there is an inadequate secretion of thyroid hormones, resulting in a slowing down of the body’s metabolism. While low production of these hormones results in hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid), high production of these hormones results in hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid).
The goals of thyroid hormone replacement therapy are to normalize thyroid hormone levels and to provide symptomatic relief. Although there are several types of thyroid hormone replacement available, not any one type is optimal therapy for everyone. As a result, treatment options may vary from person to person.
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