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Thyrotoxicosis caused by weight-reducing herbal medicines
Hidemi Ohye1, Shuji Fukata, Maki Kanoh
1Kuma Hospital, 8-2-35, Shimoyamate-dori, Chuou-ku, Kobe, Hyogo, Japan 650-0011. ohye@kuma-h.or.jp
Archives of Internal Medicine
|April 27, 2005
Summary
Weight-reducing herbal medicines "Dream Shape" and "Ever Youth" caused thyrotoxicosis in 12 patients. These supplements contain significant amounts of thyroid hormones, leading to potential health risks.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Pharmacology
- Herbal Medicine Analysis
Background:
- Introduction of weight-reducing herbal medicines "Dream Shape" and "Ever Youth" in Japan in 2000.
- Concerns regarding the safety and composition of unregulated herbal products.
Observation:
- 12 patients presented with thyrotoxicosis after consuming "Dream Shape" or "Ever Youth".
- Analysis revealed approximately 1 mug of triiodothyronine and 3-4 mug of thyroxine per capsule/tablet.
- Ingestion of 10 capsules led to a rapid increase in serum free triiodothyronine levels within 24 hours.
Findings:
- Herbal medicines contained significant levels of thyroid hormones (T3 and T4).
- Acute ingestion caused a rapid rise in triiodothyronine, indicative of factitious thyrotoxicosis.
- Minimal changes observed in free thyroxine and TSH levels within the initial 24-hour period.
Implications:
- Potential for similar thyroid hormone-containing herbal products to be distributed globally via the internet.
- Risk of misdiagnosis and treatment challenges in patients with pre-existing thyroid conditions.
- Highlights the need for stringent regulation and quality control of herbal supplements.