Reviewed by Ashley Robinson, PharmD, Pharmacy Manager for TelyRx
NP Thyroid (desiccated porcine (pig) thyroid) is an oral medication that’s prescribed to treat hypothyroidism, a condition characterized by low thyroid hormone levels. It may also be prescribed to treat or prevent goiter (enlarged thyroid) and to manage thyroid cancer.
NP Thyroid is an alternative thyroid hormone replacement made from the dried (desiccated) thyroid glands of pigs.
NP Thyroid is not FDA-approved. Common side effects include temporary hair loss, diarrhea, and nausea.
NP Thyroid works by supplementing the thyroid hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), both of which are found naturally in the body. People with hypothyroidism have an underactive thyroid gland, so their body does not produce enough of these hormones.
For people with goiter or thyroid cancer, the thyroid is growing too much. NP Thyroid works by telling the thyroid to stop producing its own hormones, which helps limit its growth.
| Common Brands | NP Thyroid® |
| Drug Class | Thyroid agents |
| Generic Status | No generic version available |
| Availability | Prescription only |
Note: Dosing information below is educational only. Your prescribing physician will determine your specific dose based on your individual health needs.
NP Thyroid is taken daily by mouth. It comes in dosage strengths ranging from 15 mg to 120 mg. Dosing for NP Thyroid is highly individualized and based on your serum thyroid levels. Your provider will order regular testing of your thyroid, and may adjust your dosage depending on how your body responds.
Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for exact dosing.
The FDA has not approved the labeling or ingredients of NP Thyroid and recommends that patients transition to an FDA-approved medication. NP Thyroid has not been found to be safe or effective by the FDA.
To date, there are no commonly known off-label uses.
Like all medications, NP Thyroid can cause side effects. Some may be a sign that the dosage is too high and needs adjusting, while others may be serious and require medical attention.
Serious side effects are rare, but it’s important to know what to look for if they do occur. Stop using NP Thyroid and call your doctor immediately if you experience:
Call your doctor immediately if you experience any concerning or prolonged symptoms.
NP Thyroid can interact with other medications, potentially altering their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. For example:
Always give your doctor and pharmacist a complete list of all your medications, vitamins, and supplements to check for potential interactions.
What is the difference between NP Thyroid and Synthroid?
NP Thyroid is a natural product made from animal thyroid glands and contains both T3 and T4 hormones. Synthroid (levothyroxine) is a synthetic, lab-made version containing only the T4 hormone, which the body can then convert to T3.
Is NP Thyroid FDA-approved?
Most desiccated thyroid products, including NP Thyroid, are not FDA-approved. They are considered unapproved drugs by the FDA, though they are legal to prescribe.
Does NP Thyroid contain both T3 and T4 hormones?
Yes. NP Thyroid contains a natural combination of levothyroxine (T4) and liothyronine (T3).
Can I take NP Thyroid with coffee or breakfast?
No, you should wait to eat or drink anything at least 30 to 60 minutes after your dose of NP Thyroid. It’s recommended to take it on an empty stomach as food can affect absorption of the medication.
Does NP Thyroid help with weight loss?
It’s possible NP Thyroid may lead to weight loss if your thyroid levels were previously low and your metabolism normalizes. However, it should never be used specifically as a weight loss drug. Taking NP Thyroid with weight loss medications can be life-threatening.
Is NP Thyroid gluten-free?
Yes, NP Thyroid is gluten-free. The medication contains no gluten or dyes.
Can I switch from Armour Thyroid to NP Thyroid directly?
Armour Thyroid and NP Thyroid are both natural desiccated thyroid products containing T3 and T4, but they have different inactive ingredients (fillers). It’s recommended to consult your doctor before switching between these prescription medications, as your body may respond differently to each brand.
Does NP Thyroid cause hair loss?
Yes, partial hair loss is a possible side effect of NP Thyroid, especially during the first few months of treatment. This is usually temporary and often resolves as the body adjusts to the medication.
Why do I feel “jittery” or anxious after taking NP Thyroid?
Feeling jittery, anxious, or having shaky hands may be signs that your thyroid hormone levels are too high. If you experience this on NP Thyroid, contact your healthcare provider, as your dose may need to be lowered.
Is NP Thyroid safe to take during pregnancy?
It is not known how NP Thyroid can affect a fetus or a pregnant person. Tell your provider if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, as thyroid levels may need more regular monitoring during pregnancy.
Does NP Thyroid contain pork?
Yes. NP Thyroid is derived from natural desiccated porcine (pig) thyroid glands.
Does NP Thyroid affect my TSH levels differently than synthetic thyroid?
Because NP Thyroid contains both T3 and T4, it may affect TSH levels differently than synthetic thyroid. Your doctor can help you interpret your lab results.
There are several medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of NP Thyroid. Here are a few possible alternatives below.
Important: Information on this page is for educational purposes only. Prescribing decisions are made by independent, licensed providers. TelyRx operates technology-enabled pharmacies and a telehealth platform that connects patients with board-certified licensed providers. Prescriptions, when provider-approved and issued, are filled and shipped by TelyRx-affiliated pharmacies. We do not employ physicians or make prescribing decisions.
