Medications for hypothyroidism: consultation with an e-prescription
- Do you often feel tired and drowsy, even after a long rest?
- Do you have trouble with memory and concentration, making everyday tasks a challenge?
- Do you frequently feel cold, even when others feel warm?
- Do you struggle to maintain a healthy weight, despite a good diet and physical activity?
- Do you experience anxiety, sudden panic attacks, or mood swings?
- Do you have digestive issues, such as constipation or irregular bowel movements?
Online consultation with a doctor
Consult a doctor online to get the right diagnosis and start treatment as soon as possible.
Which consultation to choose?
Choose an e-prescription if you know which medication you need to manage your hypothyroidism.
If you need a doctor’s advice on choosing the right medication, choose an e-consultation.
How does it work?
Select a consultation option
Decide whether you want to extend your prescription or talk to your doctor (e.g. to start therapy with a new drug). In the case of psychotropic drugs or strong painkillers, it is necessary to provide data from your IKP or a certificate from your doctor.
Complete the medical questionnaire
Answer a few questions that will help the doctor assess your health. If you are continuing treatment, attach your previous prescription.
Wait for the doctor to contact you
If you have chosen a teleconsultation/videoconsultation, the doctor will call you on the selected date to conduct a consultation. If you have chosen to extend your prescription and are a new patient, the doctor will call to confirm the data from the questionnaire.
Receive your documentation
After the doctor's decision, you will receive a prescription and/or recommendations via text message and e-mail - without leaving your home.
Hypothyroidism – Q&A
What is hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland produces too few hormones relative to the body's needs. The thyroid is a small gland located at the base of the neck, playing a key role in regulating metabolism and heat production in the body. It produces two main hormones: triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). These hormones affect the functioning of most tissues in the body, and their deficiency can lead to numerous health issues. Hypothyroidism may slow down metabolism, which in turn affects general wellbeing and health.
The most common causes of hypothyroidism
The most common causes of hypothyroidism in Poland include several key conditions and states. Chief among them is Hashimoto’s disease – chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis. Other causes include thyroid gland damage due to surgery, radiation, or trauma. Congenital hypothyroidism – present from birth – is also a significant factor. Chronic thyroid inflammation, Graves’ disease, thyroid hormone production disorders, and hormone absorption issues are further possible causes. It's also worth mentioning pituitary gland disorders, which may affect hormone production in the thyroid.
Symptoms of hypothyroidism
Symptoms of hypothyroidism can be varied and often nonspecific, making them hard to identify clearly. Common signs include obesity, cool skin, chronic fatigue, low energy, reduced physical activity, and decreased libido. People with hypothyroidism may also experience low body temperature, slower heart rate, and low blood pressure. Other symptoms include a reduction in body mass, muscle mass, brain and organ function. These symptoms can significantly impact quality of life and daily functioning, so early recognition and treatment are crucial.
Diagnosis of hypothyroidism
Diagnosis is based on a detailed medical interview, physical examination, and laboratory tests. The first step is to collect detailed information from the patient about symptoms and medical history. The doctor then performs a physical exam to assess the thyroid and other organs. If symptoms suggest thyroid dysfunction, lab tests are ordered – especially the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) level. A high TSH level may indicate hypothyroidism. Imaging studies, such as a thyroid ultrasound, may also be used to assess structure and detect any pathological changes.
How is hypothyroidism treated?
Hypothyroidism is classified as ICD-10: E03.
It’s important to know that properly implemented treatment helps restore normal body function – which is crucial information!
Thanks to the administration of synthetic thyroid hormone substitutes, your metabolism and other processes regulated by the thyroid may return to normal, and the troublesome symptoms may lessen or disappear.
However, both treatment and the appropriate choice of medication require a doctor’s consultation and a full set of tests to determine the cause of the symptoms.
Can hypothyroidism be cured?
Unfortunately, hypothyroidism cannot be fully cured. This means that once diagnosed – especially in cases such as Hashimoto’s disease or after thyroid removal – lifelong medication is necessary. But there’s no reason to fear the treatment.
Medications for hypothyroidism simply balance thyroid gland function and positively affect the body’s hormonal balance. They are essential for daily management of the disease.
Regular check-ups with an endocrinologist and proper medication intake are vital. Stopping or pausing thyroid hormone therapy can result in the return or worsening of symptoms.
Are there “best” pills for hypothyroidism?
Medications for hypothyroidism are always prescribed by a doctor, who will order and evaluate blood tests to make a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Most commonly, doctors prescribe levothyroxine sodium, a synthetic substance that mimics naturally occurring thyroid hormones. Sometimes a combination of levothyroxine and liothyronine is used. All of these are prescription-only medications.
Prescription medications for hypothyroidism
Prescription drugs include:
Levothyroxine
Combination preparations (levothyroxine + liothyronine)
Iodine supplements
Levothyroxine is typically the first-line treatment. It should be taken on an empty stomach, 30 minutes before breakfast – always as prescribed. Dosage is tailored individually based on test results and overall health. Initial adult dosage ranges from 25 to 50 µg per day, with maintenance doses between 100–200 µg/day.
Do you need to take medication for life?
Yes – in most cases, treatment with levothyroxine is lifelong. Patients should remain under regular endocrinology care and periodically check hormone levels. In Poland, the most commonly used medications are Euthyrox and Letrox.
If you can’t see your usual doctor or forgot your medication while traveling – you can request a prescription renewal online via teleconsultation.
How are thyroid medications dosed?
Dosage depends on age, health status, body weight, and natural T4 production level. Typically, synthetic hormones are taken in the morning on an empty stomach at least 30 minutes before the first meal. Your doctor may adjust the dose based on follow-up test results, especially if new symptoms arise.
Can thyroid medications help with weight loss?
No – medications won’t make you lose weight on their own.
However, if you previously struggled to lose weight due to hypothyroidism, treatment can help restore metabolism. When combined with proper diet and exercise, you may begin to lose weight. Hormone therapy simply normalizes processes regulated by the thyroid – weight loss depends on maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Over-the-counter products for hypothyroidism
Some OTC products may support thyroid health, including iodine supplements, Lugol’s solution, vitamin D, and vitamin B12. But remember – these are supportive, not substitutes for prescription treatment.
Home remedies for hypothyroidism
There are no proven home treatments that can cure hypothyroidism – especially in autoimmune cases like Hashimoto’s. However, diet can play an important supportive role.
Diet for hypothyroidism
Diet won’t cure the condition, but it can alleviate symptoms and support medication.
Key nutrients:
Protein and iodine are essential. Recommended iodine intake is 160 μg/day, or up to 200 μg during pregnancy/lactation. Sources include: mineral water, seafood, sea fish, and iodized salt.
Avoid goitrogens – foods that hinder iodine absorption – like cauliflower, rapeseed, soy, cabbage, or Brussels sprouts.
Protein-rich foods help metabolism and cell repair.
Other helpful nutrients include:
Iron – supports T3 and TSH levels
Zinc – immune function and thyroid regulation
Fiber – helps relieve constipation
Selenium – helps convert T4 to T3 and aids iodine absorption
Treat hypothyroidism only under medical supervision!
To effectively manage hypothyroidism symptoms, always consult a doctor.
Through a teleconsultation at Dimedic.eu, a physician will choose the proper therapy, prescribe medication, and guide you on diet and lifestyle changes. If you’re renewing a prescription, the doctor may issue it without a call. For new patients, the doctor will call to perform an interview. Book your online consultation or e-prescription today!