Armour & Hair Loss

Thyroid drug may cause hair loss

When an under active thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormone, it can lead to hypothyroidism. Dermatological effects of the condition include brittle and thinning hair. Armour, a natural hormone replacement therapy may also cause hair loss if over administered.

Armour Ingredient

Armour thyroid prescription medication is a dry powder made of the thyroid gland of domestic animals such as pigs. Levothyroxine sodium is the active ingredient of the drug which is administered in tablet form.

Levothyroxine side effect

Hair loss is a possible side effect of levothyroxine, according to eMedtv.com. This reaction is considered rare and temporary, improving within months of ending treatment.

Hair loss cycle

Hair loss upon taking Armour can be a sign of too much of the hormone replacement therapy, which causes hyperthyroidism, an over production of the thyroid hormone, according to eMectv.com. The hair loss cycle continues as a result of excess thyroid hormone.

Solution

If doctors determine the hair loss is due to Armour, they may provide an alternative medication depending on the severity of hair loss. If they determine it's due to too much Armour, they may reduce the dosage. Armour may have nothing to do with the hair loss, according to eMedtv.com.

Warning

A shortage of raw material has led to a shortage of Armour Thyroid, according to Forest Laboratories, the manufacturer. The product is on back order.

References

• eMedtv.com: Levothyroxine and Hair Loss
• eMedtv.com: Armour Thyroid and Hair Loss
• American Society of Health-Systme Pharmecists: Bulletin Thyroid Tablets