As the top compounding pharmacy in Johns Creek, we frequently see patients who are dealing with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and hypothyroidism—two conditions that are more common than many realize. These thyroid disorders can significantly affect a person’s quality of life, but with the right approach they are manageable.
Medication Options for Hashimoto’s and Hypothyroidism
In this blog we’ll discuss the nature of Hashimoto’s and hypothyroidism, how they can impact your health, and the personalized solutions a compounding pharmacy can offer to improve your treatment. Before delving into treatment options, it’s important to first understand these conditions.
Understanding Hashimoto’s and Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone, leading to a slow metabolism and a variety of symptoms such as weight gain, fatigue, depression, dry skin and constipation. The thyroid is responsible for regulating many bodily functions (including metabolism), so when the thyroid is underactive, it can have a widespread effect on your health.
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an autoimmune disorder, and one of the most common causes of hypothyroidism. In Hashimoto’s, the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, causing inflammation and damage. Over time this leads to decreased thyroid hormone production, and the rise of symptoms associated with hypothyroidism.
While both conditions are often treated with synthetic thyroid hormone medications (such as levothyroxine), these treatments are not one-size-fits-all. Many patients find that standard treatments don’t provide full relief for their symptoms, or they may experience side effects. This is where compounding pharmacies come in, offering customized solutions to address individual needs.
How a Compounding Pharmacy Can Help With Hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s
Unlike one-size-fits-all treatments, compounded thyroid medications from a trusted compounding pharmacy can be tailored in terms of dosage, hormone combination and formulation, making it easier to manage symptoms and improve overall well-being.
1. Customized Dosages for Optimal Results
One of the challenges of managing hypothyroidism is finding the right dose of thyroid hormone. While conventional medications like levothyroxine are available in standard dosages, some patients may require a more precise dose to feel their best. A compounding pharmacy can create a customized dosage based on your doctor’s recommendation.
2. Natural Desiccated Thyroid (NDT) Preparation
Many patients with hypothyroidism prefer NDT, or natural desiccated thyroid made from the thyroid glands of pigs. NDT contains both T4 and T3 hormones in a form that closely resembles the body’s natural thyroid hormone. While NDT is commercially available in various dosages, compounding pharmacies can create a more personalized preparation that can include the exact ratio of T4 and T3 that your body needs.
At Eli Pharmacy, we work with your doctor to create a specific formula of NDT that can help achieve optimal thyroid function and improve symptoms like fatigue and weight gain. This approach can be particularly beneficial for those who do not feel fully well on synthetic thyroid hormone alone.
3. Customized Delivery Forms
Sometimes patients may have difficulty with traditional oral medications, whether due to digestive issues, sensitivity to certain ingredients, or trouble swallowing pills. A compounding pharmacy offers the flexibility to customize the form of a medication.
Topical Creams – We can create an alternative to oral medications such as thyroid hormone creams or gels that can be absorbed through the skin. This is especially helpful for patients who have gastrointestinal issues, or find it difficult to tolerate oral medications.
Lozenges or Troches – These are particularly useful for those patients who need a precise dose but have difficulty swallowing pills. The medication dissolves in the mouth, allowing for quicker absorption.
Liquid Formulations – For children or patients who have trouble swallowing pills, liquid thyroid hormone preparations are a viable option.
4. Allergen-Free Formulations
Some patients with Hashimoto’s or hypothyroidism have sensitivities or allergies to certain ingredients in commercially available thyroid medications, such as lactose, gluten or dyes. Compounding pharmacies can create medications that omit these allergens, ensuring that the thyroid hormone treatment is safe and effective for patients with food or environmental sensitivities.
Working With Your Doctor to Support Hypothyroidism or Hashimoto’s
If you are experiencing symptoms of hypothyroidism or Hashimoto’s and feel that your current treatment plan isn’t fully addressing your needs, it’s important to discuss your concerns with your doctor. You can ask your doctor about compounded medications or supplements, and whether a more tailored approach to thyroid treatment may benefit you.
Some questions you might ask your doctor include the following.
- Could a compounded thyroid medication offer a more personalized treatment for my condition?
- Are there alternative options like natural desiccated thyroid or customized doses that could work better for me?
- Can we explore other delivery methods, such as creams or liquids, if I have trouble taking pills?
Your doctor can then assess your specific needs and work with the compounding pharmacy to create a treatment plan that aligns with your goals. You can also connect with a provider through our convenient telehealth services to get started from home.
Experience Tailored Care for Better Thyroid Health in Johns Creek
If you’re struggling with symptoms of hypothyroidism or Hashimoto’s, talk to your doctor about the potential benefits of compounded medications. Together we can create a treatment plan that works for you. Call Eli Pharmacy at (678) 835-9997, or request a telehealth consultation today.
