Posted by Larry Hoover on March 3, 2008, at 17:37:17
In reply to Re: Lithium and Iodine supplementation - Larry, posted by brooke484 on March 1, 2008, at 23:16:06
> I have hypothyroidism and am adding a small amount of Lithium to Marplan. Do you think that would make me more hypothyroid or would I stay the same? I'll talk to my doctor next week, but wanted your opinion also.
>
> Thanks,
>
> brookeLithium is preferentially taken up by the thyroid gland; the concentration within it is much higher than the blood concentration. The lithium ions inhibit the thyroid response to TSH, resulting in reduced T4/T3 release. Over time, the pituitary would increase TSH, and the thyroid would adjust upwards to restore normal output. In some cases, that upregulation increases the volume of the thyroid tissue, a trait we call goiter. However, if someone is already hypothyroid, lithium could increase the need for supplementation, as the gland may be unable to fully compensate for the lithium inhibition effect.
So, yes, lithium will reduce your own thyroid output. It may be able to bounce back, or it may not. You should have your thyroid hormones monitored once you restabilize, and potentially adjust your supplemental hormone intake. Your TSH will likely remain higher than it is now, so you'll need a thyroid panel to tell the full tale.
Lar
poster:Larry Hoover
thread:815537
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20080303/msgs/816003.html