Many people take the medication levothyroxine every day because they have been diagnosed with mild hypothyroidism. They often take the tablets for many years. But does everyone really need this treatment? That is exactly what researchers from Dresden, Leipzig, and Cottbus now want to find out.
The study focuses on a mild form of hypothyroidism. Experts call it latent hypothyroidism. Most people affected are unaware of it. The only noticeable sign is an elevated TSH level in the blood. TSH is a hormone that the body uses to regulate the thyroid gland. If the level is elevated, it may indicate that the thyroid gland is producing slightly too few hormones.
Many people with this diagnosis are prescribed levothyroxine. The medication replaces the thyroid hormone that the body produces on its own. Hypothyroidism particularly affects women and older adults. Whether levothyroxine actually helps in cases of mild hypothyroidism has not yet been scientifically proven. Nevertheless, the medication is frequently prescribed and often taken for many years.
Fewer medications – when it’s safe
Over several months, primary care physicians will regularly monitor thyroid levels and ask participants about their symptoms and quality of life. The study aims to determine whether discontinuing the medication is just as safe as continuing to take it and whether there are any disadvantages for those affected. “If it is proven that safe discontinuation is possible, we will publish corresponding recommendations for physicians,” says project leader Dr. Karen Voigt.
An advisory board consisting of patients and primary care physicians critically monitors the project throughout all phases. It also helps to ensure that the study protocol – and later the results – are presented in a way that is understandable to both experts and the general public. “With DELTA-RCT, we are breaking new ground,” says Prof. Esther Troost, dean of the Faculty of Medicine at TU Dresden. Publicly funded studies in general practice remain rare. The results could help prevent unnecessary treatments in the future without compromising patient safety.
