Thyroid drug affects bone health

A new study finds that levothyroxine, a common hypothyroidism drug sold under the name Synthroid, is linked to bone loss in older adults.

While the link doesn’t prove causation, having too much thyroid hormone can lead to the breakdown of bone tissue, resulting in osteoporosis.

The study was presented at the annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America, which concluded Wednesday in Chicago, according to Health magazine.

Thyroxine

Doctors prescribe levothyroxine to treat hypothyroidism, which occurs when the thyroid gland produces too little thyroxine.

Without treatment, weight gain, fatigue, hair loss and more serious complications can occur.

But the new study shows that even in adults whose thyroid levels have remained within the normal acceptable range, taking levothyroxine daily for more than six years is linked to greater bone loss.

The Johns Hopkins University research team found that after about six years, those who took levothyroxine lost more total bone mass and total body bone density than those who did not.

The importance of consulting a doctor

The association was strongest with higher thyroid hormone levels.

The American Medical Association reports that this drug is the second most prescribed drug for older adults in the United States.

While many people still need levothyroxine, experts recommend consulting a doctor before making any changes to your medications.