Topic of the Week
How does potassium iodide compare to propylthiouracil?
Topic of the Week
I’m using this pending post (read screenshot attached) merely as an example not to call out the poster. If this is your post I crossed out your name so no one will know it’s you and because this is a common misconception I see frequently on those other thyroid groups “that shall remain nameless”.
These two things, Potassium Iodide (iodine) and Propylthiouracil (PTU) are polar opposites.
Potassium Iodide is iodine. Iodine is what your thyroid uses to make hormone. Decades ago it was thought that if you overload the iodine receptors on the thyroid it will shut down thyroid hormone production. This was disproven and is FALSE!! In 90-95% of Gravesters taking large amounts of iodine will cause thyroid hormone production so great it can cause thyroid storms, heart attacks, strokes, comas and even death. Read that again!
Iodine is thyroid fuel. As Gravesters with intact thyroids we must NEVER supplement with high amounts of iodine. For us, using too much iodine is like trying to put out a gasoline fire with more gas. In addition to iodine being thyroid fuel it also raises Graves antibodies. Our goal is the correct amount of low iodine intake combined with anti thyroid meds to achieve the perfect amount of thyroid hormone levels.
Propylthiouracil (PTU) is an anti thyroid medication. It blocks thyroid hormone production. There are two types of anti thyroid medications and of the these two types PTU is the less effective and inferior option with more adverse side effects. Unless you’re truly allergic to the other type (meaning a true allergic reaction not a rash that developed 2 to 3 weeks after starting), Tapazole (TPZ), Methimazole (MMI), Carbimazole (CBZ), Neo Marcazole (NEO) are all the same med (different names in different countries) is the best option of the two.
The main goal of the Thyroid Keeper’s Protocol is to maintain optimal amounts of thyroid hormone to eventually achieve full Graves antibody remission. Optimal amounts are better than just “in range” because it’s where we feel our best and most people are symptom free. Being simply “in range” will not achieve antibody remission. Keep in mind, too high in the range will cause hyPER symptoms and too low in the range will cause hyPO symptoms.
To get started on the Thyroid Keeper’s Protocol, please schedule a 1 Hour Consultation with me and let’s get you on the correct path to full antibody remission!!
