SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - Hypothyroidism has traditionally relied on synthetic T4 (levothyroxine) as a standard treatment. Mercy Research, along with Dr. Gregory Ledger, principal investigator for the M21-341 study and Mercy Springfield endocrinologist, is leading an exciting new trial that aims to improve treatment options for adults with primary hypothyroidism.
“Our goal is to better mimic what the thyroid naturally produces and offer more options that may better serve patients’ needs," Dr. Ledger said.
The study addresses a gap in current treatment by investigating potential benefits of Armour Thyroid. The aim is to improve the health and quality of life for patients with hypothyroidism by providing additional options for treatment. Dr. Ledger feels this approach could offer a more physiological replacement with combinations of T4 and T3 in treatment, providing patients with a more holistic solution to managing their condition.
This research could meaningfully shift hypothyroidism treatment. By expanding treatment options, the study aims to refine the clinical guidelines and improve the quality of life for patients with hypothyroidism by clarifying if these therapies are superior and if they are non-inferior to the current standard, potentially opening the door for more treatment plan options.
“The research can move us toward a future goal of long-acting thyroid replacement therapies," Dr. Ledger said. "This would allow patients to benefit from more convenient, physiological thyroid replacement regimens, reducing daily medication management.”
