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Hegedüs L, Van Der Feltz-Cornelis CM, Papini E, Nagy EV, Weetman AP, Perros P. Medically not yet explained symptoms in hypothyroidism. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2024:10.1038/s41574-024-01022-7. [PMID: 39138377 DOI: 10.1038/s41574-024-01022-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024]
Abstract
Persistent symptoms are common in the general population and even more so in people with hypothyroidism. When symptoms are unexplained and brought to medical attention, they can be referred to as medically not yet explained symptoms (MNYES), a term preferred to other descriptors by patients, care-givers and experts. MNYES might be neglected by endocrinologists or misattributed to hypothyroidism. Awareness of MNYES could open up more effective and less harmful interventions for patients who present to endocrinologists with unexplained symptoms than costly over-investigations and over-treatment with thyroid hormones (such as levothyroxine and liothyronine). The role of the endocrinologist is to recognize and acknowledge that MNYES could be underlying a patient's presentation, to communicate effectively with the patient and others involved in the patient's care, to apply a 'two-track approach' in management by paying equal attention to physical and psychosocial contributors, and to collaborate with other relevant health professionals. Categorization of patients into levels of risk for symptom deterioration helps in selecting suitable therapies. Effective management of MNYES demands time, training, expertise and resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laszlo Hegedüs
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark.
| | | | - Enrico Papini
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Regina Apostolorum Hospital, Albano, Rome, Italy
| | - Endre V Nagy
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Anthony P Weetman
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Petros Perros
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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Li X, Liang K, Dong Y, Li S, Gao Z, Wang Q. Effects and Action Mode of Oleic Acid and Azone on Release and Penetration Process of Levothyroxine Sodium Patches. AAPS PharmSciTech 2024; 25:180. [PMID: 39107558 DOI: 10.1208/s12249-024-02875-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the prevalence of thyroid diseases, particularly hypothyroidism. In this study, we investigated the impact and mechanisms of Chemical permeation enhancement(CPE) on transdermal permeation of levothyroxine sodium (L-T4) patches.We found that the combination of oleic acid (OA) and Azone (NZ) yielded the best transdermal permeation effect for L-T4.Subsequently, we also investigated the relevant propermeability mechanism.The results demonstrate that the combined application of OA and NZ significantly enhances the transdermal permeation of L-T4 compared to individual applications,it is attributed to two mechanisms: firstly, OA improves drug release by increasing the flowability of the pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) matrix; secondly, both OA and NZ act on the stratum corneum, especially facilitating L-T4 permeation through the hair follicle pathway. No skin irritation or cytotoxicity is observed with these final patches, which exhibit a remarkable therapeutic effect on hypothyroidism. this study contributes to the development of transdermal formulations of L-T4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing Li
- Dalian University of Technology, No. 2 Linggong Road, Ganjingzi District, Dalian, 116024, Liaoning, P. R. China
| | - Kaili Liang
- Dalian University of Technology, No. 2 Linggong Road, Ganjingzi District, Dalian, 116024, Liaoning, P. R. China
| | - Yingying Dong
- Central Hospital affiliated to University of Science and Technology, Dalian, 116021, P. R. China
| | - Shen Li
- Central Hospital affiliated to University of Science and Technology, Dalian, 116021, P. R. China
| | - Zhengnan Gao
- Central Hospital affiliated to University of Science and Technology, Dalian, 116021, P. R. China.
| | - Qing Wang
- Dalian University of Technology, No. 2 Linggong Road, Ganjingzi District, Dalian, 116024, Liaoning, P. R. China.
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Lafontaine N, Brown SJ, Perros P, Papini E, Nagy EV, Attanasio R, Hegedüs L, Walsh JP. Use of thyroid hormones in hypothyroid and euthyroid patients: A survey of members of the Endocrine Society of Australia. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2024; 100:477-485. [PMID: 38462996 DOI: 10.1111/cen.15049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Hypothyroidism is a common endocrine condition usually managed with levothyroxine (LT4). However, controversy remains around the use of liothyronine (LT3). We aimed to investigate the practices of Australian endocrinologists when managing patients with hypothyroidism, their use of LT3 + LT4 combination therapy and use of thyroid hormones in euthyroid patients. DESIGN AND PARTICIPANTS Members of the Endocrine Society of Australia (ESA) were invited to participate in an online questionnaire. MEASUREMENTS We analysed questionnaires that had complete demographic data. RESULTS Eighty-seven questionnaires fulfilled the criteria. LT4 was used as first line treatment for hypothyroidism by all respondents. Only 45% reported that their patients were dispensed the brand of LT4 that they recommend. LT3 (alone or in combination) was prescribed by 44% in their clinical practice. Although 49% of respondents would consider LT3 + LT4 in patients with normal TSH who had ongoing symptoms of hypothyroidism, the inability of LT4 to restore normal physiology was ranked the least likely explanation for persistent symptoms and only 32% would consider it for themselves if they were diagnosed with hypothyroidism. The majority (55%), in accordance with evidence, would not prescribe thyroid hormone to euthyroid individuals but 39% would consider use in euthyroid female infertility with high levels of thyroid antibodies and 11% in euthyroid patients with a simple goitre growing over time. LT4 use in pregnancy was variable among members. CONCLUSIONS Australian endocrinologists mostly follow international guidelines when prescribing thyroid hormone therapy and many prescribe combination LT3 and LT4 therapy, particularly for patients who remain symptomatic on LT4 monotherapy. Prescribing practices are largely similar to other countries who have completed similar questionnaires.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Lafontaine
- Medical School, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
- Department of Endocrinology & Diabetes, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Perth, Australia
| | - Suzanne J Brown
- Department of Endocrinology & Diabetes, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Perth, Australia
| | - Petros Perros
- Institute of Translational and Clinical Research, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Enrico Papini
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Ospedale Regina Apostolorum, Rome, Italy
| | - Endre V Nagy
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Roberto Attanasio
- Italian Association of Clinical Endocrinologists Scientific Committee, Milan, Italy
| | - Laszlo Hegedüs
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - John P Walsh
- Medical School, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
- Department of Endocrinology & Diabetes, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Perth, Australia
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Attanasio R, Žarković M, Papini E, Nagy EV, Negro R, Perros P, Akarsu E, Alevizaki M, Ayvaz G, Bednarczuk T, Beleslin BN, Berta E, Bodor M, Borissova AM, Boyanov M, Buffet C, Burlacu MC, Ćirić J, Díez JJ, Dobnig H, Fadeyev V, Field BCT, Fliers E, Führer-Sakel D, Galofré JC, Hakala T, Jiskra J, Kopp PA, Krebs M, Kršek M, Kužma M, Lantz M, Lazúrová I, Leenhardt L, Luchytskiy V, Marques Puga F, McGowan A, Metso S, Moran C, Morgunova T, Niculescu DA, Perić B, Planck T, Poiana C, Robenshtok E, Rosselet PO, Ruchala M, Ryom Riis K, Shepelkevich A, Tronko MD, Unuane D, Vardarli I, Visser WE, Vryonidou A, Younes YR, Hegedüs L. Patients' Persistent Symptoms, Clinician Demographics, and Geo-Economic Factors Are Associated with Choice of Therapy for Hypothyroidism by European Thyroid Specialists: The "THESIS" Collaboration. Thyroid 2024; 34:429-441. [PMID: 38368541 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2023.0580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
Background: Hypothyroidism is common, however, aspects of its treatment remain controversial. Our survey aimed at documenting treatment choices of European thyroid specialists and exploring how patients' persistent symptoms, clinician demographics, and geo-economic factors relate to treatment choices. Methods: Seventeen thousand two hundred forty-seven thyroid specialists from 28 countries were invited to participate in an online questionnaire survey. The survey included respondent demographic data and treatment choices for hypothyroid patients with persistent symptoms. Geo-economic data for each country were included in the analyses. Results: The response rate was 32.9% (6058 respondents out of 17,247 invitees). Levothyroxine (LT4) was the initial treatment preferred by the majority (98.3%). Persistent symptoms despite normal serum thyrotropin (TSH) while receiving LT4 treatment were reported to affect up to 10.0% of patients by 75.4% of respondents, while 28.4% reported an increasing such trend in the past 5 years. The principal explanations offered for patients' persistent symptoms were psychosocial factors (77.1%), comorbidities (69.2%), and unrealistic patient expectations (61.0%). Combination treatment with LT4+liothyronine (LT3) was chosen by 40.0% of respondents for patients who complained of persistent symptoms despite a normal TSH. This option was selected more frequently by female thyroid specialists, with high-volume practice, working in countries with high gross national income per capita. Conclusions: The perception of patients' dissatisfaction reported by physicians seems lower than that described by hypothyroid patients in previous surveys. LT4+LT3 treatment is used frequently by thyroid specialists in Europe for persistent hypothyroid-like symptoms even if they generally attribute such symptoms to nonendocrine causes and despite the evidence of nonsuperiority of the combined over the LT4 therapy. Pressure by dissatisfied patients on their physicians for LT3-containing treatments is a likely explanation. The association of the therapeutic choices with the clinician demographic characteristics and geo-economic factors in Europe is a novel information and requires further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Attanasio
- Scientific Committee Associazione Medici Endocrinologi, Milan, Italy
| | - Miloš Žarković
- Clinic of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Diseases of Metabolism, Thyroid Department, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Enrico Papini
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Regina Apostolorum Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Endre Vezekenyi Nagy
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Roberto Negro
- Division of Endocrinology, Ospedale Fazzi, Lecce, Italy
| | - Petros Perros
- Institute of Translational and Clinical Research, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Ersin Akarsu
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Gaziantep University, Gaziantep, Turkey
| | - Maria Alevizaki
- Endocrine Unit and Diabetes Centre, Department of Clinical Therapeutics, Alexandra Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Göksun Ayvaz
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Koru Ankara Hospital, Çankaya, Turkey
| | - Tomasz Bednarczuk
- Department of Internal Medicine and Endocrinology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Biljana Nedeljković Beleslin
- Clinic of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Diseases of Metabolism, Thyroid Department, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Eszter Berta
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Miklos Bodor
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Anna Maria Borissova
- Clinic of Endocrinology and Metabolism, University Hospital "Sofiamed," Medical Faculty, Sofia University "Saint Kliment Ohridski," Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Mihail Boyanov
- Clinic of Endocrinology and Metabolism, University Hospital "Alexandrovska," Sofia, Bulgaria
- Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University Sofia, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Camille Buffet
- GRC n 16, GRC Thyroid Tumors, Thyroid Disease and Endocrine Tumor Department, APHP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtriére, Sorbonne Universitè, Paris, France
| | - Maria-Cristina Burlacu
- Department of Endocrinology Diabetology and Nutrition, Cliniques Universitaires St-Luc, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jasmina Ćirić
- Clinic of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Diseases of Metabolism, Thyroid Department, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Juan J Díez
- Department of Endocrinology, Hospital Universitario Puerta de Hierro Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Puerta de Hierro Segovia de Arana, Calle Manuel de Falla, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Harald Dobnig
- Thyroid and Osteoporosis Praxis, Kumberg, Austria
- Thyroid Practice for Radiofrequency Ablation, Vienna, Austria
| | - Valentin Fadeyev
- Department of Endocrinology No. 1, N.V. Sklifosovsky Institute of Clinical Medicine, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Benjamin C T Field
- Section of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, United Kingdom
| | - Eric Fliers
- Department of Endocrinology & Metabolism, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Dagmar Führer-Sakel
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Juan Carlos Galofré
- Department of Endocrinology, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Tommi Hakala
- Department of Surgery, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Jan Jiskra
- 3rd Department of Medicine, 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, General University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Peter A Kopp
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Michael Krebs
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Michal Kršek
- 3rd Department of Medicine, 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, General University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Kužma
- 5th Department of Internal Medicine, Medical Faculty of Comenius University and University Hospital, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Mikael Lantz
- Department of Endocrinology, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Ivica Lazúrová
- 1st Department of Internal Medicine of the Medical Faculty, P.J. Šafárik University Košice, Košice, Slovakia
| | - Laurence Leenhardt
- GRC n 16, GRC Thyroid Tumors, Thyroid Disease and Endocrine Tumor Department, APHP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtriére, Sorbonne Universitè, Paris, France
| | - Vitaliy Luchytskiy
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism named after V.P. Komissarenko, National Academy of Medical Science of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Francisca Marques Puga
- Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism Service, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Santo António, Porto, Portugal
| | - Anne McGowan
- Robert Graves Institute, Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Saara Metso
- Department of Endocrinology, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Carla Moran
- Diabetes & Endocrinology Section, Beacon Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Tatyana Morgunova
- Department of Endocrinology No. 1, N.V. Sklifosovsky Institute of Clinical Medicine, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Dan Alexandru Niculescu
- Department of Endocrinology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Božidar Perić
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases "Mladen Sekso," University Hospital Center "Sisters of Mercy," Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Tereza Planck
- Department of Endocrinology, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Catalina Poiana
- Department of Endocrinology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Eyal Robenshtok
- Thyroid Cancer Service, Endocrinology and Metabolism Institute, Beilinson Hospital and Davidoff Cancer Center, Rabin Medical Center, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Petah Tikva, Israel
| | | | - Marek Ruchala
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Internal Medicine, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Kamilla Ryom Riis
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, Odense C, Denmark
| | - Alla Shepelkevich
- Department of Endocrinology, Belarusian State Medical University, Minsk, Republic of Belarus
| | - Mykola D Tronko
- V.P. Komisarenko Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism of Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - David Unuane
- Department of Internal Medicine, Endocrine Unit, UZ Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Irfan Vardarli
- Department of Medicine I, Klinikum Vest GmbH, Knappschaftskrankenhaus Recklinghausen, Academic Teaching Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Recklinghausen, Germany
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, 5th Medical Department, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - W Edward Visser
- Rotterdam Thyroid Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Andromachi Vryonidou
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes Centre, Hellenic Red Cross Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Laszlo Hegedüs
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, Odense C, Denmark
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Ettleson MD, Ibarra S, Wan W, Peterson S, Laiteerapong N, Bianco AC. Demographic, Healthcare Access, and Dietary Factors Associated With Thyroid Hormone Treatments for Hypothyroidism. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2023; 108:e1614-e1623. [PMID: 37327351 PMCID: PMC10655529 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgad331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 05/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Clinical guidelines have recommended a trial of liothyronine (LT3) with levothyroxine (LT4) in select patients with hypothyroidism. However, little is known about the real-world use of LT3 and desiccated thyroid extract (DTE) and the characteristics of patients treated with LT3 and DTE. OBJECTIVES (1) Determine national trends of new LT4, LT3, and DTE prescriptions in the United States; (2) determine whether sociodemographic, healthcare access, and dietary factors are associated with different thyroid hormone (TH) therapies. METHODS Parallel cross-sectional studies were conducted using 2 datasets: (1) a national patient claims dataset (2010-2020) and (2) the National Health and Nutrition Examination Study (NHANES) dataset (1999-2016). Included participants had a diagnosis of primary or subclinical hypothyroidism. Study outcomes included the impact of demographics and healthcare access on differences in the proportion of TH therapies consisting of LT4, LT3, and DTE (patient claims) and differences in dietary behaviors between DTE-treated participants and LT4-treated matched controls (NHANES). RESULTS On an average annual basis, 47 711 adults received at least 1 new TH prescription, with 88.3% receiving LT4 monotherapy, 2.0% receiving LT3 therapy, and 9.4% receiving DTE therapy. The proportion receiving DTE therapy increased from 5.4% in 2010 to 10.2% in 2020. In the analysis between states, high primary care and endocrinology physician densities were associated with increased use of LT4 monotherapy (odds ratio 2.51, P < .001 and odds ratio 2.71, P < .001). DTE-treated NHANES participants (n = 73) consumed more dietary supplements compared to LT4-treated participants (n = 146) (4.7 vs 2.1, P < .001). CONCLUSIONS The proportion of new TH therapies containing DTE for hypothyroidism doubled since 2010 while LT3 therapies remained stable. DTE treatment was associated with decreased physician density and increased dietary supplement use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew D Ettleson
- Department of Medicine, Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Sabrina Ibarra
- Department of Medicine, Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Wen Wan
- Department of Medicine, Section of General Internal Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Sarah Peterson
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Neda Laiteerapong
- Department of Medicine, Section of General Internal Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Antonio C Bianco
- Department of Medicine, Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
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Žarković M, Attanasio R, Nagy EV, Negro R, Papini E, Perros P, Cohen CA, Akarsu E, Alevizaki M, Ayvaz G, Bednarczuk T, Berta E, Bodor M, Borissova AM, Boyanov M, Buffet C, Burlacu MC, Ćirić J, Díez JJ, Dobnig H, Fadeyev V, Field BCT, Fliers E, Frølich JS, Führer D, Galofré JC, Hakala T, Jiskra J, Kopp P, Krebs M, Kršek M, Kužma M, Lantz M, Lazúrová I, Leenhardt L, Luchytskiy V, McGowan A, Melo M, Metso S, Moran C, Morgunova T, Mykola T, Beleslin BN, Niculescu DA, Perić B, Planck T, Poiana C, Puga FM, Robenshtok E, Rosselet P, Ruchala M, Riis KR, Shepelkevich A, Unuane D, Vardarli I, Visser WE, Vrionidou A, Younes YR, Yurenya E, Hegedüs L. Characteristics of specialists treating hypothyroid patients: the "THESIS" collaborative. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1225202. [PMID: 38027187 PMCID: PMC10660282 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1225202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Thyroid specialists influence how hypothyroid patients are treated, including patients managed in primary care. Given that physician characteristics influence patient care, this study aimed to explore thyroid specialist profiles and associations with geo-economic factors. Methods Thyroid specialists from 28 countries were invited to respond to a questionnaire, Treatment of Hypothyroidism in Europe by Specialists: an International Survey (THESIS). Geographic regions were defined according to the United Nations Statistics Division. The national economic status was estimated using World Bank data on the gross national income per capita (GNI per capita). Results 5,695 valid responses were received (response rate 33·0%). The mean age was 49 years, and 65·0% were female. The proportion of female respondents was lowest in Northern (45·6%) and highest in Eastern Europe (77·2%) (p <0·001). Respondent work volume, university affiliation and private practice differed significantly between countries (p<0·001). Age and GNI per capita were correlated inversely with the proportion of female respondents (p<0·01). GNI per capita was inversely related to the proportion of respondents working exclusively in private practice (p<0·011) and the proportion of respondents who treated >100 patients annually (p<0·01). Discussion THESIS has demonstrated differences in characteristics of thyroid specialists at national and regional levels, strongly associated with GNI per capita. Hypothyroid patients in middle-income countries are more likely to encounter female thyroid specialists working in private practice, with a high workload, compared to high-income countries. Whether these differences influence the quality of care and patient satisfaction is unknown, but merits further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miloš Žarković
- University of Belgrade Faculty of Medicine, Internal Medicine, Belgrade, Serbia
- Clinic of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Diseases of Metabolism, Thyroid Department, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Roberto Attanasio
- Associazione Medici Endocrinologi, Scientific Committee, Milan, Italy
| | - Endre V. Nagy
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Roberto Negro
- Ospedale Vito Fazzi, Department of Endocrinology, Lecce, Italy
| | - Enrico Papini
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Regina Apostolorum Hospital, Albano Laziale, Roma, Italy
| | - Petros Perros
- Institute of Translational and Clinical Research, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | | | - Ersin Akarsu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Faculty of Medicine, Gaziantep University, Gaziantep, Türkiye
| | - Maria Alevizaki
- Endocrine Unit and Diabetes Centre, Department of Clinical Therapeutics, Alexandra Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Faculty of Medicine, Athens, Greece
| | - Göksun Ayvaz
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Koru Ankara Hospital, Ankara, Türkiye
| | - Tomasz Bednarczuk
- Department of Internal Medicine and Endocrinology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Eszter Berta
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Miklos Bodor
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Anna Maria Borissova
- Sofia University Saint Kliment Ohridski, Medical Faculty, Clinic of Endocrinology and Metabolism, University Hospital “Sofiamed”, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Mihail Boyanov
- University Hospital Alexandrovska, Clinic of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Medical University-Sofia, Internal Medicine, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Camille Buffet
- GRC n 16, GRC Thyroid Tumors, Thyroid Disease and Endocrine Tumor Department, AP-HP, Hôpital Pitié Salpêtrière, Sorbonne University, Paris, France
| | - Maria-Cristina Burlacu
- Department of Endocrinology and Nutrition, Cliniques Universitaires St-Luc, Université Catholique De Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jasmina Ćirić
- University of Belgrade Faculty of Medicine, Internal Medicine, Belgrade, Serbia
- Clinic of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Diseases of Metabolism, Thyroid Department, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Juan J. Díez
- Department of Endocrinology, Hospital Universitario Puerta De Hierro Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
- Instituto De Investigación Sanitaria Puerta De Hierro Segovia De Arana, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma De Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Harald Dobnig
- Thyroid Endocrinology, Osteoporosis Institute Dobnig, Graz, Austria
| | - Valentin Fadeyev
- Department of Endocrinology No. 1, N.V. Sklifosovsky Institute of Clinical Medicine, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Benjamin C. T. Field
- University of Surrey Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Section of Clinical Medicine, Prague, United Kingdom
| | - Eric Fliers
- Department of Endocrinology & Metabolism, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | | | - Dagmar Führer
- University Hospital Essen, Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University-Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Juan Carlos Galofré
- Departmento De Endocrinologia e Nutrición, Clínica Universidad De Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Tommi Hakala
- Department of Surgery, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Jan Jiskra
- 3rd Department of Medicine, 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, General University Hospital, Prague, Czechia
| | - Peter Kopp
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Michael Krebs
- Department of Medicine III, Division of Endocrinology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Michal Kršek
- 3rd Department of Medicine, 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, General University Hospital, Prague, Czechia
| | - Martin Kužma
- 5th Department of Internal Medicine, Medical Faculty of Commenius University and University Hospital, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Mikael Lantz
- Department of Endocrinology, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Ivica Lazúrová
- P. J. Šafárik University Košice, 1st Department of Internal Medicine of the Medical Faculty, Košice, Slovakia
| | - Laurence Leenhardt
- Hopital Pitie-Salpetriere, Thyroid and Endocrine Tumors Unit, Institut of Endocrinology, Sorbonne University, Paris, France
| | - Vitaliy Luchytskiy
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinogy, Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism named after V.P. Komissarenko, National Academy of Medical Science of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Anne McGowan
- Robert Graves Institute, Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Miguel Melo
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Medical Faculty, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Saara Metso
- Department of Internal Medicine, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Carla Moran
- Diabetes & Endocrinology Section, Beacon Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Tatyana Morgunova
- Department of Endocrinology No. 1, N.V. Sklifosovsky Institute of Clinical Medicine, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Tronko Mykola
- Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism named after V.P. Komissarenko, National Academy of Medical Science of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Biljana Nedeljković Beleslin
- University of Belgrade Faculty of Medicine, Internal Medicine, Belgrade, Serbia
- Clinic of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Diseases of Metabolism, Thyroid Department, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Dan Alexandru Niculescu
- Department of Endocrinology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Božidar Perić
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases “Mladen Sekso”, University Hospital Center “Sisters of Mercy”, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Tereza Planck
- Department of Endocrinology, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Catalina Poiana
- Department of Endocrinology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Francisca Marques Puga
- Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism Service, Porto Hospital and University Centre, Porto, Portugal
| | - Eyal Robenshtok
- Endocrinology Institute, Rabin Medical Center, Tel Aviv University Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | | | - Marek Ruchala
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Internal Medicine, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Kamilla Ryom Riis
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Alla Shepelkevich
- Department of Endocrinology, Belarusian State Medical University, Minsk, Belarus
| | - David Unuane
- Department of Internal Medicine, Endocrine Unit, UZ Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussel, Belgium
| | - Irfan Vardarli
- Department of Medicine I, Klinikum Vest GmbH, Knappschaftskrankenhaus Recklinghausen, Recklinghausen, Germany
- 5th Medical Department, Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - W. Edward Visser
- Rotterdam Thyroid Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Andromachi Vrionidou
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes Centre, Hellenic Red Cross Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Younes R. Younes
- East Surrey Hospital, Surrey & Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust, Redhill, Surrey, United Kingdom
| | | | - Laszlo Hegedüs
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
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Mustafa M, Ali E, McGowan A, McCabe L, Hegedüs L, Attanasio R, Nagy EV, Papini E, Perros P, Moran C. Use of Thyroid Hormones in Hypothyroid and Euthyroid Patients: A THESIS questionnaire survey of members of the Irish Endocrine Society. Ir J Med Sci 2023; 192:2179-2187. [PMID: 36482281 PMCID: PMC10522726 DOI: 10.1007/s11845-022-03235-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Replacement of thyroid hormones (TH) with Levothyroxine (LT4) is the treatment of choice for hypothyroidism, however, there are aspects of treatment where uncertainties exist and practice varies. Factors influencing initiation and choice of TH replacement may impact patient satisfaction, safety, and health care costs. METHODS The aim of the study was to examine the attitudes of Irish endocrinologists regarding the treatment of hypothyroid and euthyroid patients with TH. Members of the Irish Endocrine Society (IES) were invited to participate in an online survey. RESULTS Forty-eight invitations were sent, and 39 (81.3%) participants responded. All respondents favoured LT4 tablet therapy for treatment of hypothyroidism, but 20.5% prescribed combination therapy (LT4 and liothyronine), and 13% regularly used desiccated thyroid extract. A significant proportion (51%) might prescribe TH in euthyroid patients; 41% for thyroid auto-antibody positive women seeking pregnancy, 18% for goitre and 5% for unexplained fatigue. Many (38%) consider combination therapy in patients with persistent symptoms. Respondents reported seeing LT4 treated patients with persistent symptomatology more frequently and perceive psychosocial factors and comorbidities to be the most common reasons for such symptoms. CONCLUSION LT4 tablets are the treatment of choice for hypothyroidism in Ireland. Approximately a third of Irish endocrinologists either regularly use, or would consider, liothyronine for hypothyroid patients. A significant proportion would give TH to euthyroid individuals in specific circumstances. The prescription of TH amongst Irish endocrinologists was generally in keeping with recommended practice, and areas where practice deviated from guidance were typically where evidence was conflicting or insufficient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamad Mustafa
- Robert Graves Institute, Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Elsheikh Ali
- Robert Graves Institute, Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Anne McGowan
- Robert Graves Institute, Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Laura McCabe
- Pharmacy Department, Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Laszlo Hegedüs
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Roberto Attanasio
- Scientific Committee Associazione Medici Endocrinologi, Milan, Italy
| | - Endre V. Nagy
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Enrico Papini
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Opsedale Regina Apostolorum, Rome, Italy
| | - Petros Perros
- Department of Endocrinology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Carla Moran
- Diabetes & Endocrinology Section, Beacon Hospital, Sandyford, Dublin, Ireland
- School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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Cassemiro JF, Ilera V, Batalles S, Reyes A, Nagy EV, Papini E, Perros P, Hegedüs L, Ramos HE. Use of thyroid hormones in hypothyroid and euthyroid patients: a 2022 THESIS questionnaire survey of members of the Latin American Thyroid Society (LATS). Thyroid Res 2023; 16:40. [PMID: 37773072 PMCID: PMC10542243 DOI: 10.1186/s13044-023-00182-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Inconsistencies in the medical management of hypothyroidism have been reported between endocrinologists in different countries. This study aimed to identify the attitudes of Latin America thyroid specialists towards the use of thyroid hormones. METHODS Online survey of members of the Latin America Thyroid Society. RESULTS 81/446 (18.2%) completed the questionnaire. Levothyroxine (LT4) was the initial treatment of choice for all respondents. 56.8% would consider LT4 use in biochemically euthyroid patients: infertile women with elevated anti-thyroid antibodies (46.9%), resistant depression (17.3%) and growing goiter (12%). Most respondents preferred tablets (39.5%) over liquid formulations (21.0%) or soft gel capsules (22.2%) and would not consider switching formulations in patients with persistent symptoms. 39.5% would never use LT4 + liothyronine (LT3) combination therapy in symptomatic euthyroid patients, due to low quality evidence for benefit. 60.5% reported that persistence of symptoms despite normal TSH is rare (below 5% of patients) and its prevalence has been stable over the last five years. Psychosocial factors (84.0%), comorbidities (86.4%) and the patient unrealistic expectation (72.8%) were considered the top three explanations for this phenomenon. CONCLUSION LT4 tablets is the treatment of choice for hypothyroidism. A significant proportion of respondents would use LT4 in some groups of euthyroid individuals, contrasting the recommendations of the major clinical practice guideline indications. LT4 + LT3 combination treatment in euthyroid symptomatic patients was considered by nearly 50%. Practices based on weak or absent evidence included use of thyroid hormones for euthyroid subjects by 56.8% of respondents and use of LT4 + LT3 treatment by 60.5% of respondents for patients with persistent symptoms. In contrast to many European countries, LATS respondents report a low and unchanged proportion of dissatisfied patients over the last five years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica F Cassemiro
- Department of Bioregulation, Health & Science Institute, Federal University of Bahia, Avenida Reitor Miguel Calmon, S/N. Vale do Canela. Room 325, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Veronica Ilera
- Department of Endocrinology, Hospital Ramos Mejía, Caba, Argentina
| | | | - Adriana Reyes
- Department of Endocrinology, Hospital Ramos Mejía, Caba, Argentina
| | - Endre V Nagy
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Enrico Papini
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Regina Apostolorum Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Petros Perros
- Department of Endocrinology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Laszlo Hegedüs
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Helton Estrela Ramos
- Department of Bioregulation, Health & Science Institute, Federal University of Bahia, Avenida Reitor Miguel Calmon, S/N. Vale do Canela. Room 325, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil.
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Perros P, Nagy EV, Papini E, Van Der Feltz-Cornelis CM, Weetman AP, Hay HA, Abad-Madroñero J, Tallett AJ, Bilas M, Lakwijk P, Poots AJ, Hegedüs L. Hypothyroidism and Somatization: Results from E-Mode Patient Self-Assessment of Thyroid Therapy, a Cross-Sectional, International Online Patient Survey. Thyroid 2023; 33:927-939. [PMID: 37134204 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2022.0641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Background: Between 10% and 15% of hypothyroid patients experience persistent symptoms despite achieving biochemical euthyroidism. Unexplained persistent symptoms can be a sign of somatization. This is associated with distress and high health care resource use and can be classified as somatic symptom disorder (SSD). Prevalence rates for SSD differ depending on classification criteria and how they are ascertained, varying between 4% and 25%. As this has not been studied in hypothyroid patients before, the aim of this study was to document somatization in people with hypothyroidism and to explore associations with other patient characteristics and outcomes. Methods: Online, multinational cross-sectional survey of individuals with self-reported, treated hypothyroidism, which included the validated Patient Health Questionnaire-15 (PHQ-15) for assessment of somatization. Chi-squared tests with the Bonferroni correction were used to explore outcomes for respondents with a PHQ-15 score ≥10 (probable somatic symptom disorder [pSSD]) versus a PHQ-15 score <10 (absence of SSD). Results: A total of 3915 responses were received, 3516 of which contained the valid PHQ-15 data (89.8%). The median score was 11.3 (range 0-30 [confidence interval 10.9-11.3]). The prevalence of pSSD was 58.6%. Associations were found between pSSD and young age (p < 0.001), women (p < 0.001), not working (p < 0.001), having below average household income (p < 0.001), being treated with levothyroxine (LT4) (rather than combination of LT4 and L-triiodothyronine [LT3], LT3 alone, or desiccated thyroid extract) (p < 0.001), expression of the view that the thyroid medication taken did not control the symptoms of hypothyroidism well (p < 0.001), and with number of comorbidities (p < 0.001). pSSD was associated with respondent attribution of most PHQ-15 symptoms to the hypothyroidism or its treatment (p < 0.001), dissatisfaction with care and treatment of hypothyroidism (p < 0.001), a negative impact of hypothyroidism on daily living (p < 0.001), and with anxiety and low mood/depression (p < 0.001). Conclusions: This study demonstrates a high prevalence of pSSD among people with hypothyroidism and associations between pSSD and negative patient outcomes, including a tendency to attribute persistent symptoms to hypothyroidism or its treatment. SSD may be an important determinant of dissatisfaction with treatment and care among some hypothyroid patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petros Perros
- Department of Endocrinology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Endre Vezekenyi Nagy
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Enrico Papini
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Regina Apostolorum Hospital, Albano, Rome, Italy
| | - Christina Maria Van Der Feltz-Cornelis
- Department of Health Sciences, HYMS, University of York, York, United Kingdom
- Institute of Health Informatics, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | | | | - Megan Bilas
- Picker Institute Europe, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Peter Lakwijk
- Thyroid Federation International, Transpolispark, Hoofddorp, The Netherlands
| | | | - Laszlo Hegedüs
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
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10
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Younes YR, Perros P, Hegedüs L, Papini E, Nagy EV, Attanasio R, Negro R, Field BCT. Use of thyroid hormones in hypothyroid and euthyroid patients: A THESIS questionnaire survey of UK endocrinologists. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2023; 98:238-248. [PMID: 35975405 PMCID: PMC10087612 DOI: 10.1111/cen.14812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Management of hypothyroidism is controversial because of medication cost pressures and scientific uncertainty on how to address treatment dissatisfaction experienced by some patients. The objective was to investigate the experience and preferences of UK endocrinologists in use of thyroid hormones. DESIGN Web-based survey. PATIENTS UK endocrinologists were invited to participate. MEASUREMENTS Responses to questionnaire. RESULTS The response rate was 21% (272/1295). While levothyroxine monotherapy is regarded as the treatment of choice for hypothyroidism, 51% of respondents stated that combined treatment with levothyroxine and liothyronine could be considered for levothyroxine-treated patients whose symptoms persist despite normalisation of serum thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) concentration. However, only 40% are currently prescribing such treatment, and just 23% would consider taking it themselves. A small minority prescribe desiccated thyroid extract, and those most likely to do so are aged over 60 years. Most respondents stated that they have no influence over brand or formulation of levothyroxine dispensed to their patients and expect no major differences in efficacy between different formulations. A total of 9% would prescribe levothyroxine for euthyroid enlarging goitre, and 29% for euthyroid female infertility with high titre thyroid peroxidase antibodies, despite recent trials finding no benefit. CONCLUSIONS UK endocrine practice in management of hypothyroidism is broadly in line with international guidance. However, a minority of respondents would consider thyroid hormone supplementation in euthyroid individuals for female infertility, enlarging goitre, and other indications in which evidence of efficacy is lacking. Willingness to consider prescribing combined levothyroxine and liothyronine, for hypothyroid symptoms which persist despite normalised TSH, has increased in comparison to previous international surveys, despite inconsistent evidence of benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Younes R Younes
- Department of Endocrinology, East Surrey Hospital, Surrey & Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust, Redhill, Surrey, UK
| | - Petros Perros
- Department of Endocrinology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Laszlo Hegedüs
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Enrico Papini
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Regina Apostolorum Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Endre V Nagy
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Roberto Attanasio
- Scientific Committee, Associazione Medici Endocrinologi, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberto Negro
- Division of Endocrinology, V. Fazzi Hospital, Lecce, Italy
| | - Benjamin C T Field
- Department of Endocrinology, East Surrey Hospital, Surrey & Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust, Redhill, Surrey, UK
- Section of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey, UK
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11
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Liu H, Li W, Zhang W, Sun S, Chen C. Levothyroxine: Conventional and novel drug delivery formulations. Endocr Rev 2022; 44:393-416. [PMID: 36412275 PMCID: PMC10166268 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnac030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Despite the fact that levothyroxine is one of the most prescribed medications in the world, its bioavailability has been reported to be impaired by many factors, including interfering drugs or foods and concomitant diseases, and persistent hypothyroidism with a high dose of levothyroxine is thus elicited. Persistent hypothyroidism can also be induced by noninterchangeability between formulations and poor compliance. To address these issues, some strategies have been developed. Novel formulations (liquid solutions and soft-gel capsules) have been designed to eliminate malabsorption. Some other delivery routes (injections, suppositories, sprays, and sublingual and transdermal administrations) are aimed at circumventing different difficulties in dosing, such as thyroid emergencies and dysphagia. Moreover, nanomaterials have been used to develop delivery systems for the sustained release of levothyroxine to improve patient compliance and reduce costs. Some delivery systems encapsulating nanoparticles show promising release profiles. In this review, we first summarize the medical conditions that interfere with the bioavailability of oral levothyroxine and discuss the underlying mechanisms and treatments. The efficacy of liquid solutions and soft-gel capsules are systematically evaluated. We further summarize the novel delivery routes for levothyroxine and their possible applications. Nanomaterials in the levothyroxine field are then discussed and compared based on their load and release profile. We hope the article provides novel insights into the drug delivery of levothyroxine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanqing Liu
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Li
- Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Wen Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Shengrong Sun
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Chuang Chen
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei, People's Republic of China
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12
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Perros P, Hegedus L. Enhanced Well-Being Associated with Thyrotoxicosis: A Neglected Effect of Thyroid Hormones? Int J Endocrinol Metab 2022; 20:e127230. [PMID: 35993034 PMCID: PMC9375936 DOI: 10.5812/ijem-127230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2022] [Revised: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Thyrotoxicosis may be associated with a better sense of well-being than in the euthyroid state, though this is not widely recognised. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION A comprehensive literature search in PubMed and Google Scholar, was performed to identify studies investigating factors influencing well-being, mood, and psychological features associated with elevated thyroid hormones. RESULTS Enhanced well-being associated with thyrotoxicosis has been described, although the evidence is observational and anecdotal. CONCLUSIONS Enhanced well-being associated with thyrotoxicosis is probably experienced in a minority of patients and may explain why some seek overtreatment with thyroid hormones and report significant improvement on larger than physiological thyroid hormone replacement regimens. It may also explain why some patients with hyperthyroidism (usually due to Graves' disease) are reluctant to adhere to anti-thyroid medication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petros Perros
- Department of Endocrinology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
- Corresponding Author: Department of Endocrinology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK.
| | - Laszlo Hegedus
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
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