armour thyroid discontinued 2022

Daniel Parker

2 min read

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28-02-2025

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Meta Description: Armour Thyroid, a popular natural desiccated thyroid (NDT) hormone replacement therapy, faced discontinuation concerns in 2022. This article explores the reasons behind the shortages, alternative treatments, and what patients should do. Learn about the ongoing situation and find reliable information to manage your thyroid health.

Introduction:

In 2022, concerns arose regarding the availability of Armour Thyroid, a commonly prescribed natural desiccated thyroid (NDT) medication. While not officially discontinued, significant shortages and supply chain issues caused disruptions for many patients. This article clarifies the situation and offers guidance for individuals affected by these changes. Understanding the reasons behind the shortages and available alternatives is crucial for managing your thyroid health effectively.

Why Was Armour Thyroid Unavailable?

The reasons behind the 2022 Armour Thyroid shortages were multifaceted and complex:

• Increased Demand: The popularity of Armour Thyroid, due to its natural composition, led to significantly increased demand. This surge exceeded the manufacturing capacity.

• Supply Chain Issues: Like many industries, pharmaceutical manufacturing was impacted by global supply chain disruptions, affecting the availability of raw materials and impacting production timelines.

• Manufacturing Challenges: Producing Armour Thyroid involves sourcing and processing porcine thyroid glands, creating unique manufacturing challenges. Maintaining consistent quality and meeting the increasing demand presented significant hurdles.

• Regulatory Scrutiny: The FDA's increased scrutiny of NDT medications, while aimed at improving safety and consistency, added to the regulatory burden on manufacturers, potentially contributing to delays and production issues.

Armour Thyroid Alternatives: What Options Exist?

If you previously relied on Armour Thyroid, your doctor will work with you to find a suitable alternative. Several options exist, each with its own advantages and disadvantages:

• Synthetic Thyroid Hormones (Levothyroxine, Liothyronine): These are the most common alternatives. Levothyroxine (T4) is the primary thyroid hormone, while Liothyronine (T3) is a more potent, fast-acting hormone. Your doctor may prescribe a combination or one depending on your specific needs.

• Other NDT Medications: While Armour Thyroid faced shortages, other NDT medications, such as Nature-Throid or WP Thyroid, remained available in many areas, although they may also be subject to supply fluctuations.

• Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT): Some practitioners offer BHRT, although this is a more complex treatment option with less research supporting its effectiveness compared to synthetic options. Discuss this with your doctor to evaluate the benefits and risks.

What Should I Do If My Armour Thyroid is Unavailable?

If you are experiencing difficulties obtaining Armour Thyroid, follow these important steps:

1. Contact Your Doctor: Schedule an appointment to discuss alternative treatment options. Do not stop taking your medication without consulting your physician.

2. Explore Alternative Pharmacies: Check with multiple pharmacies in your area, or consider using mail-order pharmacies to increase your chances of finding your medication.

3. Work Closely With Your Doctor: Regular monitoring of your thyroid hormone levels is crucial when switching medications. This ensures your medication is properly adjusted to maintain optimal thyroid function.

Long-Term Outlook for Armour Thyroid

The long-term outlook for Armour Thyroid remains uncertain. While shortages have eased somewhat, the possibility of future disruptions remains. Staying informed about medication availability and communicating proactively with your healthcare provider is essential.

Conclusion: Managing Your Thyroid Health

The 2022 Armour Thyroid situation highlighted the importance of proactive communication with your healthcare provider and a thorough understanding of your thyroid health needs. While the availability of Armour Thyroid has improved in some regions, patients should remain informed and prepared to manage their treatment effectively, whether by using alternative medications or actively working with their doctor to find a suitable solution for maintaining optimal thyroid health. Remember to always prioritize communication and collaboration with your doctor for the best management of your condition.