Hypothyroidism is a common medical problem and levothyroxine — brand name: Synthroid — one of the most widely prescribed medications. Treatment is usually forever. But a new study suggests it doesn’t have to be.

The thyroid has several functions, but its primary role is to produce two thyroid hormones which we identify as thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones regulate several bodily functions. If the thyroid is overactive — hyperthyroidism — you get symptoms of rapid heart rate, irritability, weight loss, sweating and palpitations. If the thyroid is underactive, you get the opposite symptoms of intolerance to cold, fatigue, weight gain, depression and low heart rate.

Hypothyroidism is by far the more common of the two, especially in older adults, and thankfully easier to treat. When thyroid hormone levels are low, they can be topped by taking the thyroid medication levothyroxine in pill form.

Levothyroxine is one of the most prescribed medications worldwide, especially in older........

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