Brand Name
Thyroid Hormone
Common Name
desiccated thyroid
In this drug factsheet:
DIN (Drug Identification Number)| 00023965 | THYROID 125MG TABLET |
| 00023949 | THYROID 30MG TABLET |
| 00023957 | THYROID 60MG TABLET |
How does this medication work? What will it do for me?
Desiccated thyroid is used to replace thyroid hormone for people whose thyroid glands do not make sufficient amounts (hypothyroidism). Thyroid hormone is necessary for increasing the metabolic rate of body tissues.
Desiccated thyroid must be taken on a daily basis to be effective. This medication may take several weeks to have a noticeable effect on your condition. Replacement thyroid hormone therapy usually needs to be taken for life.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.
How should I use this medication?
The dose of desiccated thyroid needed depends on the level of function of your thyroid gland. The doctor will decide on your dose of desiccated thyroid from the results of laboratory tests that determine the amount of thyroid hormone in your blood.
Desiccated thyroid should be taken once daily at the same time each day (usually in the morning before breakfast).
Many things can affect the dose of a medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Call your doctor if you miss 2 doses or more in a row.
Store the medication at room temperature and protect it from light and moisture.
Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.

What form(s) does this medication come in?
30 mg
Each tan-coloured tablet, embossed "ECI 30" on one side contains 30 mg desiccated thyroid derived from porcine thyroid glands. Nonmedicinal ingredients: cornstarch, magnesium stearate, sugar and talc. Energy: 1.2 kJ (0.28 kcal). Gluten-, paraben-, sodium-, sulfite- and tartrazine-free.
60 mg
Each tan-coloured tablet, embossed "ECI 60" on one side contains 60 mg desiccated thyroid derived from porcine thyroid glands. Nonmedicinal ingredients: cornstarch, magnesium stearate, sugar and talc. Energy: 1.1 kJ (0.26 kcal). Gluten-, paraben-, sodium-, sulfite- and tartrazine-free.
125 mg
Each tan-coloured tablet, embossed "ECI 125" on one side contains 125 mg desiccated thyroid derived from porcine thyroid glands. Nonmedicinal ingredients: cornstarch, magnesium stearate, sugar and talc. Energy: 2.2 kJ (0.52 kcal). Gluten-, paraben-, sodium-, sulfite- and tartrazine-free.
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Dessicated thyroid should not be taken by anyone who:
- has an allergy to any of the ingredients of the medication (there are currently no known cases of allergy to desiccated thyroid itself)
- has certain uncorrected problems of the adrenal glands
- has untreated thyrotoxicosis
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