World Warning | This is a new side effect of the most famous medicines for problems with the thyroid gland

It has just been discovered that the levotiroxin, one of the most prescribed drugs in the world for the treatment of hypothyroidism, can be associated with an unexpected risk of bone health.

A recent study by John Hopkins in Baltimore (USA) suggests that levotiroxin can increase the loss of bone density in the elderly.

This discovery is a kind of anxiety between endocrinology experts and patients who depend on this treatment.

Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones, which causes symptoms such as fatigue, weight increase, dry skin and hair loss.

And, despite their prevalence, many people do not know that they suffer from this, since their symptoms can be confused with other diseases.

Levotyriksin has been a reference treatment for decades and is considered safe and effective. Nevertheless, this new conclusion confirms the need for personalized monitoring and strategies that minimize risks, especially in vulnerable population groups.

This is a new side effect of the most famous medicines for problems with the thyroid gland

The investigation included 445 people over 65 years old and showed that those who took levotiroxin for more than six years were more likely to develop osteoporosis in comparison with those who did not consume the hormone.

“Our study suggests that even within the recommended limits of levotyroxin can be associated with a greater loss of bone mass,” warned Elena Gotby, the main author of the investigation.

Levothyroxine is the standard treatment of hypothyroidism, a condition that affects approximately 4% of the adult population in Spain and more often in middle -aged women. Nevertheless, the study raises doubts about long -term effects and the need to carefully control patients in order to avoid adverse consequences.

“It is extremely important that doctors adjust the dose to a minimum effective level to avoid a high level of bones -hormone, which could accelerate the loss of bone mass,” said that the study of the co -author, Shadpur Demeri. In addition, periodic monitoring of thyroid function is recommended to avoid complications.

Should preventive measures should be taken?

Given these results, experts insist on the importance of periodic reassessment of the need for treatment in patients over 65 years old.

“A significant part of the recipes of thyroid hormones is intended for the elderly without obvious clinical hypothyroidism,” Gotby warned.

Recommendations include adjusting doses to an effective minimum, regular control of bone density and contributing to healthy habits, such as diet, rich in calcium and vitamin D, as well as the practice of physical exercises to strengthen bones.

The medical community emphasizes that the levotiroxin remains inalienable treatment, but its introduction should be individualized in order to avoid adverse side effects.