Thyrostim
Also known as: Thyrostim, Thyroid Support Supplement, Selenium and Myo-inositol for Thyroid, Selenium and Myo-inositol Combination
Overview
Thyrostim is a multi-ingredient dietary supplement primarily marketed for supporting thyroid function, particularly in individuals with autoimmune thyroid conditions like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. It typically combines selenium and myo-inositol, two micronutrients known for their roles in thyroid health. Selenium, an essential trace element, acts as a cofactor for selenoproteins, which are crucial for antioxidant defense and immune modulation within the thyroid gland. Myo-inositol, a sugar alcohol, is involved in intracellular signaling pathways that regulate TSH action and thyroid hormone synthesis. The supplement aims to reduce thyroid autoantibodies, improve thyroid hormone parameters, and mitigate oxidative stress, thereby supporting overall thyroid well-being. While direct high-quality research on the branded product 'Thyrostim' is limited, extensive studies support the efficacy of its individual components.
Benefits
The primary benefits of Thyrostim stem from its key ingredients, selenium and myo-inositol, particularly for individuals with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Selenium supplementation (100-200 mcg/day) has been shown to significantly reduce thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPOAb) and thyroglobulin antibodies (TgAb), and modestly lower TSH levels in patients not on thyroid hormone replacement therapy. It also decreases oxidative stress markers like malondialdehyde. The strength of evidence for selenium is moderate, with standardized mean differences (SMD) of approximately -0.96 for TPOAb reduction and -0.21 for TSH reduction, indicating statistically significant effects. When myo-inositol is combined with selenium, some randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have reported further improvements in thyroid function and antibody levels in autoimmune thyroiditis. These benefits are typically observed after 3 to 6 months of consistent supplementation. The supplement is most beneficial for patients with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD) without overt hypothyroidism or those on stable thyroid hormone replacement therapy.
How it works
Thyrostim's mechanism of action is attributed to its active ingredients, selenium and myo-inositol. Selenium functions as a crucial cofactor for various selenoproteins, including glutathione peroxidase, which plays a vital role in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation within the thyroid gland. By mitigating oxidative damage, selenium helps to modulate the immune response against thyroid antigens, thereby reducing the production of thyroid autoantibodies. Myo-inositol participates in intracellular signaling pathways, particularly those related to thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) action. It enhances the sensitivity of thyroid cells to TSH, thereby supporting efficient thyroid hormone synthesis and secretion. Together, these components work synergistically to modulate immune system activity, reduce autoimmune inflammation, and support the overall synthesis and regulation of thyroid hormones.
Side effects
Selenium and myo-inositol, the primary components of Thyrostim, are generally considered safe when taken at recommended doses. Mild gastrointestinal discomfort is occasionally reported with selenium, but it is rare and typically not severe. Uncommon side effects (1-5%) are not consistently reported in high-quality randomized controlled trials. However, selenium toxicity, known as selenosis, can occur at very high doses (exceeding 400 mcg/day), leading to symptoms such as hair loss, nail brittleness, fatigue, irritability, and a garlic-like breath odor. This is rare at typical supplement doses. Selenium may interact with anticoagulant medications, and caution is advised for individuals on such therapies. Contraindications include known hypersensitivity to selenium. Pregnant and lactating women should consult a healthcare professional before use. Overall, the safety profile is favorable when adhering to recommended dosages, but exceeding the upper intake level for selenium should be avoided.
Dosage
For optimal thyroid support, the recommended dosage for selenium typically ranges from 100 to 200 mcg per day. Myo-inositol dosages vary but are commonly between 600 mg to 2 grams per day in studies. These dosages have been shown to be effective in clinical trials for reducing thyroid antibodies and improving thyroid function markers. The maximum safe dose for selenium is generally considered to be 400 mcg per day to avoid the risk of toxicity (selenosis). Supplementation is usually taken orally, once daily. Benefits are typically observed after 3 to 6 months of consistent use. Selenium is often preferred in the selenomethionine form due to its higher bioavailability. While food can affect selenium absorption, myo-inositol absorption is generally stable. It is crucial to ensure adequate dietary iodine intake, as it is essential for thyroid hormone production and works synergistically with these nutrients.
FAQs
Is Thyrostim effective for Hashimoto’s thyroiditis?
Evidence supports that the selenium and myo-inositol components in Thyrostim can improve antibody levels and thyroid function markers in Hashimoto’s, suggesting potential benefits for the condition.
Is Thyrostim safe for long-term use?
Yes, at recommended doses, Thyrostim's components are generally safe for long-term use. However, exceeding the upper intake level for selenium can lead to toxicity.
When can I expect to see results from Thyrostim?
Benefits from consistent supplementation with Thyrostim's active ingredients, such as reduced antibody levels, are typically observed after 3 to 6 months of use.
Can Thyrostim replace my thyroid hormone therapy?
No, Thyrostim is an adjunct supplement and cannot replace prescribed thyroid hormone replacement therapy. Patients with hypothyroidism still require their medication.
Does Thyrostim directly affect thyroid hormone levels?
Thyrostim may modestly improve TSH and antibody levels, but it does not directly replace or significantly alter thyroid hormone levels in the same way as prescription medication.
Research Sources
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/endocrinology/articles/10.3389/fendo.2024.1445878/full – This systematic review and network meta-analysis of 10 RCTs found that selenium combined with myo-inositol significantly reduced TPOAb, TgAb, and TSH levels in patients with autoimmune thyroid disease. The study highlights the synergistic effects of these two compounds in improving thyroid parameters.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38243784/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 35 RCTs involving 2358 participants with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis demonstrated that selenium supplementation significantly reduced TPOAb (SMD -0.96), TSH (SMD -0.21), and oxidative stress markers. The study concluded that selenium is a safe and effective intervention for improving thyroid function and reducing autoimmunity.
- https://apm.amegroups.org/article/view/67466/html – This meta-analysis on selenium in AITD found that selenium reduced FT3, FT4, and TPOAb levels, though effects on TSH and TgAb were inconsistent across studies. The authors noted heterogeneity in study designs and called for more large-scale RCTs to confirm findings and clarify optimal dosing.
