Is np thyroid the same as naturethroid. Nature Throid 2023: Availability, Alternatives, and Understanding Thyroid USP
Will Nature Throid be available in 2023. Why are Nature Throid and WP Thyroid unavailable. What is Thyroid USP. How does desiccated thyroid differ from synthetic thyroid medications.
The Current Status of Nature Throid in 2023
As of 2023, Nature Throid remains unavailable for production and distribution. RLC Labs, the manufacturer of Nature Throid, has stated on their website that they are “continuing to work with the FDA to get our products back on the market as soon as possible.” However, no definitive timeline has been provided for the return of Nature Throid to the market.
In the interim, RLC Labs has taken an alternative approach to serve patients who relied on Nature Throid. They are now selling the active pharmaceutical ingredient, Thyroid USP, which was used in the production of both Nature Throid and WP Thyroid. This development allows patients to obtain a compounded version of their medication using the same active ingredient found in these previously available branded medications.
Understanding the Nature Throid and WP Thyroid Recall
The unavailability of Nature Throid and WP Thyroid can be traced back to 2021 when a comprehensive recall of all lots was initiated. This recall was voluntary and implemented by the manufacturer following FDA inspections that revealed inconsistencies in the strengths of the finished medications.
While some variability is expected in thyroid medications due to natural variations in thyroid hormone levels within glands, there are acceptable limits. Typically, a batch can have a variance of +/- 10% from the labeled strength. However, when this range is exceeded, it becomes problematic as patients may receive significantly more or less than the intended dose.
Potential Risks of Inconsistent Thyroid Medication Dosages
- Return of hypothyroid symptoms
- Unexpected side effects
- Complications for pregnant women and newborns
- Risks for elderly patients and those with underlying cardiac conditions
According to the FDA recall notice, patients receiving subpotent Nature-Throid® or WP Thyroid® may experience various symptoms of hypothyroidism. These can include fatigue, increased cold sensitivity, constipation, dry skin, puffy face, hair loss, slow heart rate, depression, thyroid gland swelling, and unexplained weight changes.
Thyroid USP: The Core of Natural Desiccated Thyroid Medications
Thyroid USP is the standardized form of thyroid hormone used in natural desiccated thyroid medications. The “USP” designation indicates that the drug meets the reference standard established by the United States Pharmacopeia. This standardization ensures consistency and quality across different brands and formulations.
Interestingly, Thyroid USP is the common active ingredient in various thyroid medications, including Nature Throid, WP Thyroid, NP Thyroid, Armour Thyroid, and compounded thyroid preparations. The primary differences between these products lie in the excipients used in their formulation.
Converting Grain Measurements to Milligrams
Historically, desiccated thyroid products have been measured in grains, a unit of measurement that is less commonly used today. However, for accuracy and consistency, especially when switching to compounded forms of the medication, it’s crucial to convert grain measurements to milligrams.
RLC Labs provides a conversion chart on their website (https://getrealthyroid.com/conversion-guide.html) that shows the equivalent milligram dosage for each grain measurement. When prescribing compounded natural desiccated thyroid, healthcare providers should use the milligram dosage to ensure accuracy.
Desiccated Thyroid vs. Synthetic Thyroid Medications
The treatment landscape for hypothyroidism includes both synthetic and natural options. Understanding the differences between these can help patients and healthcare providers make informed decisions about treatment approaches.
Synthetic Thyroid Medications
Synthetic thyroid medications, such as levothyroxine (marketed under various brand names including Synthroid, Levoxyl, Unithroid, and Tirosint), contain only one form of thyroid hormone – T4. While effective for many patients, these medications may not address the full spectrum of thyroid hormone functions in the body.
Natural Desiccated Thyroid
Desiccated thyroid, derived from pig thyroid glands, has been used for over a century and was the original treatment for hypothyroidism. This form of medication contains multiple forms of thyroid hormone, potentially offering a more comprehensive approach to thyroid hormone replacement.
The Composition and Benefits of Desiccated Thyroid
Desiccated thyroid medications are unique in their composition, offering a more holistic approach to thyroid hormone replacement. Unlike synthetic options that typically provide only T4 (levothyroxine), desiccated thyroid contains multiple thyroid hormones found naturally in the thyroid gland.
Key Components of Desiccated Thyroid
- T4 (Thyroxine)
- T3 (Triiodothyronine)
- T2 (Diiodothyronine)
- T1 (Monoiodothyronine)
- Calcitonin
This diverse hormone profile may offer advantages for some patients, particularly those who have difficulty converting T4 to the more active T3 form. The presence of T3 in desiccated thyroid can be especially beneficial for individuals with this conversion issue.
Comparing Desiccated Thyroid Brands
While Nature Throid and WP Thyroid are currently unavailable, several other desiccated thyroid options remain on the market. Understanding the similarities and differences between these brands can help patients and healthcare providers make informed decisions about alternative treatments.
Popular Desiccated Thyroid Brands
- Armour Thyroid
- NP Thyroid
- Thyroid USP (for compounding)
These brands all use Thyroid USP as their active ingredient but may differ in their inactive ingredients and manufacturing processes. The choice between them often comes down to individual patient response and preferences.
Compounded Thyroid Medications: A Personalized Approach
With the unavailability of Nature Throid and WP Thyroid, many patients have turned to compounded thyroid medications as an alternative. Compounding allows for personalized dosing and formulations, potentially offering a more tailored approach to thyroid hormone replacement.
Benefits of Compounded Thyroid Medications
- Precise dosage adjustments
- Customizable hormone ratios
- Avoidance of allergens or unwanted fillers
- Flexibility in dosage forms (e.g., capsules, liquids, topical preparations)
Compounded thyroid medications use the same Thyroid USP as the basis for their formulations, ensuring that patients receive a standardized active ingredient. The ability to fine-tune dosages and avoid problematic excipients makes compounding an attractive option for many thyroid patients.
Managing the Transition from Nature Throid to Alternatives
For patients who previously relied on Nature Throid or WP Thyroid, transitioning to a new thyroid medication requires careful consideration and monitoring. The process of switching medications can be complex due to variations in absorption and individual patient responses.
Steps for a Successful Transition
- Consult with a healthcare provider experienced in thyroid management
- Obtain current thyroid function tests before making any changes
- Consider starting with a compounded version using Thyroid USP for consistency
- Monitor symptoms closely and adjust dosages as needed
- Repeat thyroid function tests at regular intervals to ensure proper hormone levels
It’s important to note that even when switching to a medication with the same active ingredient, individual responses can vary. Patience and close communication with a healthcare provider are crucial during this transition period.
The Future of Natural Desiccated Thyroid Medications
As the thyroid medication landscape continues to evolve, questions arise about the future availability and development of natural desiccated thyroid options. While RLC Labs works towards reintroducing Nature Throid and WP Thyroid to the market, the industry as a whole faces challenges and opportunities.
Potential Developments in Thyroid Treatment
- Improved quality control measures for natural thyroid preparations
- Development of new synthetic combinations mimicking natural thyroid profiles
- Advancements in personalized medicine approaches to thyroid management
- Increased research into thyroid hormone metabolism and conversion
As research progresses and regulatory standards evolve, the options for thyroid hormone replacement therapy may expand, potentially offering more tailored and effective treatments for individuals with hypothyroidism.
Navigating Thyroid Health in a Changing Landscape
The unavailability of Nature Throid and WP Thyroid has undoubtedly created challenges for many patients managing hypothyroidism. However, it has also opened up discussions about thyroid treatment options and highlighted the importance of personalized approaches to thyroid health.
Key Considerations for Thyroid Patients
- Stay informed about treatment options and developments
- Work closely with healthcare providers experienced in thyroid management
- Be proactive in monitoring symptoms and advocating for optimal treatment
- Consider a holistic approach to thyroid health, including nutrition and lifestyle factors
As the thyroid treatment landscape continues to evolve, patients and healthcare providers must remain adaptable and informed. The goal remains consistent: achieving optimal thyroid function and overall well-being for each individual patient.
Nature Throid 2023 – Will Nature Throid be Available in 2023?
Will Nature Throid be available in 2023? According to the RLC Labs website, “RLC Labs is continuing to work with the FDA to get our products back on the market as soon as possible.” However as of right now, there is no Nature Throid in production. The manufacturer is now selling the active pharmaceutical ingredient, Thyroid USP, which they used to produce Nature Throid and WP Thyroid. That means that patients can get a compounded version of their medication using the same active ingredient that was in these RLC Labs branded medications.
Why are Nature Throid and WP Thyroid Unavailable?
Nature Throid and WP Thyroid have been unavailable since 2021 when there was a complete recall of all lots. This recall was voluntary and initiated by the manufacturer. The recall came after FDA inspections found wider than acceptable ranges in the actual strengths of the finished medications. There is certain variability that is acceptable since the amount of thyroid hormones in a single gland can vary. When a batch is made, there can be +/- 10% of the labeled strength. However once you start getting outside of this range, it is considered unacceptable as the patient may be getting significantly more or less than the expected dose. Inconsistency in dosing can lead to hypothyroid symptoms returning or other side effects.
According to the FDA recall notice (https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/rlc-labs-inc-issues-voluntary-nationwide-recall-all-lots-nature-throidr-and-wp-thyroidr-current)
Patients being treated for hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid), who receive sub potent Nature-Throid® or WP Thyroid®, may experience signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) which may include, fatigue, increased sensitivity to cold, constipation, dry skin, puffy face, hair loss, slow heart rate, depression, swelling of the thyroid gland and/or unexplained weight gain or difficulty losing weight. There is reasonable risk of serious injury in newborn infants or pregnant women with hypothyroidism including early miscarriage, fetal hyperthyroidism, and/or impairments to fetal neural and skeletal development.
In elderly patients and patients with underlying cardiac disease toxic cardiac manifestations of hyperthyroidism may occur, such as cardiac pain, palpitations or cardiac arrhythmia. RLC Labs, Inc. has not received any reports of adverse events related to this recall.
Nature-Throid® and WP Thyroid® (thyroid tablets, USP) is composed of liothyronine and levothyroxine, and are used to treat hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid). The products subject to recall are packaged in 30, 60, 90, 100 and 1,000 count bottles.
What is Thyroid USP?
When you see the letters “USP” after the name of a drug it means that the drug meets a reference standard established by the United States Pharmacopeia. Nature Throid, WP Thyroid, NP Thyroid, Armour Thyroid, and compounded thyroid all use the same active ingredient – Thyroid USP. There is nothing proprietary about this ingredient. Manufacturers simply change the excipients used to make the medication. Our pharmacy purchases Thyroid USP directly from RLC Labs – the manufacturer of Nature Throid and WP Thyroid when they were available.
Nature Throid and WP Thyroid came in specific dosages that were measured in grains. The grain unit of measurement is not really used anymore but is still used to measure desiccated thyroid products as it was when the products were first made available. However it is still possible to convert grains to a milligram equivalent. This makes it easier to get an accurate dosage when switching to a compounded form of the drug. If you look at the conversion chart on the RLC Labs website here: https://getrealthyroid.com/conversion-guide.html you can see that each grain dosage has an equivalent milligram dosage. When you are sending a prescription to a compounding pharmacy for natural desiccated thyroid, you should use the milligram dosage.
Desiccated Thyroid
There are several synthetic medications on the market for treating hypothyroidism. The typical synthetic medication that is prescribed is levothyroxine (marketed as Synthroid, Levoxyl, Unithroid, Tirosint, and other names).
This medication is only one form of the thyroid hormone – T4. There are actually multiple forms of thyroid hormone that affect each other and multiple functions throughout the body.
Desiccated thyroid is actually derived from the thyroid glands of pigs which are dried and turned into a powder that can be used as a pharmaceutical ingredient. This form of thyroid medication has been used for over a hundred years and was the first treatment for hypothyroidism. Desiccated thyroid contains all forms of thyroid hormone including T1, T2, T3, T4, and thyroid co-factors. Patients who report that their hypothyroid symptoms improve more with the use of desiccated thyroid may be improving due to the combination of T4 and T3 with other thyroid co-factors.
These are some key features of Nature Throid according to RLC Labs:
- T4 & T3 replacement hormones derived from natural desiccated porcine thyroid
- Naturally occurring thyroid cofactors T1, T2, calcitonin and iodine (in trace amounts)
- Always gluten-free
- Contains NO artificial colors or flavors
- Contains NO soy, yeast, egg, fish or shellfish, corn, peanut, or rice
Source: https://www.
naturethroid.com/
These benefits are the same for compounded thyroid made in a dosage to match Nature Throid or WP Thyroid. The main brands of desiccated thyroid are Amour Thyroid, NP Thyroid, Nature Throid, and WP Thyroid. Most of these have experience recalls or shortages at some point. Usually the reason for the recall is regarding consistency in dosing. A compounding pharmacy can provide desiccated thyroid capsules that do not experience the same kind of recalls as brand-name medications.
Desiccated thyroid was “grandfathered” by the FDA into an approved status, which means it did not go through the traditional FDA approval process. However that does not mean it is not regulated at all or that it can be purchased without a prescription. A prescription is required for all forms of desiccated thyroid including when it is made by a compounding pharmacy. The FDA regulates the production of thyroid to ensure its production meets certain high standards of quality, cleanliness, and consistency.
The FDA also regulates compounding pharmacies in general to ensure they meet high quality standards.
Why Do Patients Use Desiccated Thyroid?
As mentioned previously, desiccated thyroid contains all forms of thyroid hormone and co-factors. Synthetic thyroid usually only contains T4. Patients may start their hypothyroid treatment by using levothyroxine and find that they are still experiencing symptoms. For some of these patients, dose adjustments do not work and they look for alternatives. Desiccated thyroid helps some patients who have symptoms that do not improve with synthetic thyroid medication.
One theory is that patients who do better on desiccated thyroid do not effectively convert T4 to T3. T3 is the active form of the thyroid hormone. Taking NDT leads to higher circulating levels of T3 than when taking levothyroxine. The higher T3 levels lead to an improvement in symptoms for patients who have difficulty converting the inactive to the active form of the hormone.
Regardless of what is actually happening with thyroid hormone conversion, patients take NDT simply because it works for them. There are various ways of telling whether a thyroid treatment is working but the best indicator is how the patient feels. Are the symptoms of hypothyroidism being relieved? If the answer is no then there may be medication adjustments, lifestyle changes, or other treatments needed.
Nature Throid and WP Thyroid Availability in 2023
Will Nature Throid be available in 2023? It is hard to say right now but a good guess is that it will not be available at least at the beginning of the year. All lots are currently not in production per the RLC Labs website and there is no indication that the company is going to restart production anytime soon. Until it does become available, RLC Labs is selling Thyroid USP to compounding pharmacies like National Pharmacy so patients can continue their treatment.
Looking to send a prescription for compounded NDT capsules? Contact us here.
Articles
Desiccated thyroid extract compared with levothyroxine in the treatment of hypothyroidism: a randomized, double-blind, crossover study – The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism
Nature-Throid vs NP Thyroid Comparison
Nature-Throid vs NP Thyroid Comparison – Drugs.com
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Nature-Throid may also be used for purposes not listed in this comparison guide.
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NP Thyroid may also be used for purposes not listed in this comparison guide.
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