What is the common treatment for hypothyroidism?

The common treatment for hypothyroidism involves thyroid hormone replacement therapy, primarily using levothyroxine. This synthetic hormone mimics the action of the natural thyroid hormone thyroxine (T4) that the body is no longer producing in sufficient quantities. When administered, levothyroxine effectively helps to restore normal hormonal levels, alleviating symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, and depression that are typically associated with hypothyroidism.

The goal of this therapy is to normalize thyroid hormone levels in the bloodstream, thereby helping to maintain proper metabolic function and overall health. This treatment is usually initiated with a standard dose that is adjusted based on regular monitoring of thyroid function tests to ensure effective management of the condition.

In contrast, options like medication to increase thyroid-stimulating hormone, surgical removal of the thyroid gland, and radioactive iodine therapy do not align with the standard practice for treating hypothyroidism. Increased thyroid-stimulating hormone indicates an underactive thyroid rather than treating the condition. Surgical removal and radioactive iodine therapy are primarily utilized for hyperthyroidism or thyroid cancer, not hypothyroidism.