by Mila McManus MD
This month, the FDA initiated action seeking to ban access to desiccated thyroid, which has been a cornerstone of our holistic treatment regimen and products that we have confidently provided for decades. To better understand what the FDA is proposing, please read it here.
While not surprising, their action to limit desiccated thyroid products is yet another attempt to undermine non-traditional medical models and bolster the pharmaceutical companies’ profits. The functional medicine field has used desiccated thyroid products, both compounded and commercially available forms, for over three decades. They are marketed as Armour Thyroid, NP Thyroid, Nature-Thyroid, and Natural Thyroid, among other names. Our respected compounding pharmacy partners have consistently provided pure, safe, and potent specialized dosing to ensure optimal health and safety for our patients.
A 12-month grace period has been stated before the limits are initiated. In the meantime, the FDA is urging doctors and patients to transition to synthetic (laboratory-manufactured) medications containing only levothyroxine or liothyronine or a combination of the two.
Two important points for our patients:
- First, we have a year during which to transition to other products. You may call your pharmacy for questions or discuss them with your healthcare provider at your next appointment.
- Second, because it is not yet official, you have an opportunity to make your voice heard and to take action in opposition to this future intent by clicking the links below and signing the petitions to stop the FDA from removing desiccated animal-derived thyroid medications from the marketplace and beyond the reach of patient and doctor freedom of choice.
- https://www.change.org/p/ask-the-fda-to-allow-the-use-of-desiccated-thyroid-medication
- https://www.change.org/p/we-as-thyroid-patients-do-not-agree-with-the-fda-false-claims-against-desiccated-thyroid
Use your voice. Be patient. Be well.