Westhroid
Westhroid is a medication that is used for treating an underactive thyroid and other types of thyroid problems. It is considered a "natural" product because it is made from the thyroid glands of pigs. The tablets, which are available by prescription, are not FDA-approved, but appear to meet certain consistency and potency standards. Potential side effects include hair loss, insomnia, and heart palpitations.
What Is Westhroid?
Westhroid™ (thyroid USP) is a prescription medication used most often to treat an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), although it can be used to treat various other thyroid problems as well. Because Westhroid is made from the thyroid glands of pigs, it is considered a "natural" thyroid product.
(Click Westhroid Uses for more information, including possible off-label uses.)
Westhroid Shortage
Many people have been frustrated to find that this medication (as well as other similar products) has been difficult, if not impossible, to obtain lately. Apparently, there has been a sudden increase in demand for Westhroid, and the company has had difficulty keeping up with this increase.The manufacturer does not know when this medication will again become consistently available. It is possible that a few strengths may become intermittently available at first before all strengths return to the market. Until then, discuss your other treatment options with your healthcare provider.
**October 2010 Update** The ½-grain,1-grain, and 2-grain strengths are once again available. The manufacturer is working to resolve the shortage of the other strengths, and it is expected that other strengths may become available soon. In addition, three new strengths (1½-grain, 4-grain, and 5-grain) are expected to become available in the coming months.