Desiccated thyroid extract is a natural thyroid hormone derived from porcine. In Canada, Erfa Thyroid is the standardized form and contains both T4 and T3 in a ratio of approximately 4:1. This treatment offers another option for people who struggle to convert T4 into T3.
A randomized, double blind study of 70 patients with hypothyroidism were treated with either desiccated thyroid extract or levothyroxine for 12 weeks. After each treatment period, patients were weighed, had blood tests, underwent psychometric testing and were asked which therapy they preferred. The researchers report that 49% of the patients preferred desiccated thyroid extract, 19% preferred levothyroxine and 23% had no preference. Desiccated thyroid extract use was also associated with more weight loss.
Our thyroid program is available with Dr. Vidmar & Dr. Wolfe and involves a full medical work-up and evaluation to determine if desiccated thyroid hormone is for you. In addition to your thyroid recommendations, you can expect our NDs to suggests dietary and lifestyle changes to optimize your thyroid gland and address potential causes of your under active thyroid.
