Do individuals diagnosed with subclinical hypothyroidism require treatment?

Question

Hello doctor,

My TSH value was 9 mIU/mL when I checked it two years back, and I was diagnosed with subclinical hypothyroidism. I was prescribed tablet Eltroxin 100 mcg (to be taken five days a week) and was instructed to take it lifelong. Also, my TSH value was 1.14 and free T4 was 1.4 when I checked it six years back. Recently, I read a medical article in which it was mentioned that subclinical cases do not require any treatment. I am confused as to whether I should continue taking Eltroxin or not. Please help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Thank you for showing your trust in us.

You are right that subclinical cases do not need treatment, but there are a few exceptions like pregnancy and anti-TPO (thyroid peroxidase) antibody positivity. So, check the levels of your anti-TPO antibodies, and if it is positive, then you need to take tablet Levothyroxine sodium (Eltroxin). Also, it is possible that your hypothyroidism would have progressed now and by stopping the medication you may develop clinical hypothyroidism. If anti-TPO is negative, then you can gradually decrease the dose after checking the TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) level and consulting with your physician. If it is below 10 mIU/mL, then the dosage can be tapered. Also, tablet Levothyroxine sodium (Eltroxin) is to be taken daily, and not just for five days. If you are taking it daily, then you may not need 100 mcg. I suggest you take 75 mcg daily before breakfast after consulting with your physician.

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Do individuals diagnosed with subclinical hypothyroidism require treatment?

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