The thyroid is a small gland located in the front of the neck just below the voice box. It secretes hormones, including thyroxine, or T4, and triiodothyronine, or T3. The main function of the thyroid is to stimulate the rate of metabolism and the breakdown of carbohydrates, lipids and proteins. When the thyroid does not function properly, your physician may place you on a medication to regulate its activities.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid does not produce enough hormones. Common symptoms include dry skin, cold intolerance, constipation, fatigue, sluggishness and weight gain. Weight gain occurs without changing the diet or activity level; you may find you are unable to lose weight even with a strict diet and regular exercise. Treatment of hypothyroidism involves restoring hormone levels with levothyroxine, which is given orally once a day. You should begin to see an improvement in symptoms in 1 to 2 weeks and gradually begin to lose the excess weight.
Warning
Levothyroxine is used to treat hypothyroidism and has a warning regarding its use for obesity. According to the "Drug Information Handbook," this drug is not effective and may be toxic when used for the treatment of obesity or for weight loss. Individuals who do not have hypothyroidism are at higher risk of developing toxic effects such as insomnia, heat intolerance, nervousness and heart palpitations. This medication is safe and effective for use in hypothyroidism and not meant to be used for other indications.
Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid is overactive and produces too much thyroxine hormone. Your body uses up energy at faster rate than normal and speeds up your metabolism. Signs and symptoms include irregular heartbeat, sweating, nervousness and unexplained weight loss. Unexplained weight loss is defined as losing 5 percent of body weight or 10 lb. in a short amount of time without trying. If you develop these symptoms, you should go to your physician so he can diagnose properly and prescribe the necessary medication.
Maintaining Proper Weight
Propylthiouracil and methimazole are two prescription medications used for the treatment of hyperthyroidism. Because these medications are slowing down your metabolism to bring it to a normal level, you may gain some weight; if you are concerned about gaining a significant amount of weight, ask your physician to help you come up with an appropriate diet plan and exercise regimen fit to your level. If you have hypothyroidism, regular exercise and eating well can help you lose weight quicker and keep it off.
References
- "Drug Information Handbook"; Charles F. Lacy, Lora L. Armstrong, et al.; 2009
- University of Maryland Medical Center: The Thyroid Gland
- MayoClinic.com: Hyperthyroidism
