Category: Uncategorized

Generic thyroxine contains the same active ingredient (levothyroxine sodium) as brand-name products. It is approved by health authorities (like the FDA or DGCI) to be as safe and effective as the brand-name version. Studies indicate that generic levothyroxine performs similarly to brand-name versions for most individuals. Inactive ingredients (fillers, dyes) may vary between brands and generics. Occasionally, some individuals may react to these differences. The amount of active ingredient is tightly controlled, although very small variations can occur between different brands and generics. For most individuals, this is not significant.

It is advisable to use the same brand or generic manufacturer each time you refill your prescription. If your pharmacy changes brands or generics, inform your doctor. If you experience any new symptoms after a switch (such as tiredness, weight changes, palpitations), consult your doctor. You may require a thyroid blood test to check your hormone levels.

Generic thyroxine is a safe, effective, and affordable alternative to brand-name thyroxine. For most patients, it works just as well. The key to successful treatment is consistent use and regular monitoring of thyroid hormone levels.

If you have concerns about switching or notice any changes in your symptoms, always consult your healthcare provider. They can help adjust your dose or recommend the best option for you.

Mrs. Anila Nisha , D Pharm

Radioactive iodine therapy is considered a safe and effective treatment for thyroid conditions such as hyperthyroidism and thyroid cancer. This procedure has been utilized for over 50 years and is generally well tolerated by most patients. Although the term “radioactive” may sound alarming, it is a safe treatment that specifically targets thyroid cells to permanently destroy them, with minimal exposure to the rest of the body’s cells.

For hyperthyroidism, radioactive iodine is administered orally in a single capsule or liquid dose. This is typically an outpatient procedure, allowing patients to return home shortly after taking the dose. In cases of thyroid cancer, the radioactive iodine dose may be given orally or through an intravenous injection, which is larger than that used for hyperthyroidism, and may necessitate a hospital stay following the procedure.

RAI therapy generally affects only the thyroid and does not harm other parts of the body. However, patients can emit radiation through bodily fluids such as urine, saliva, and sweat, which can pose risks to others. Consequently, specific precautions must be taken to protect those around the patient, especially pregnant women and young children, by avoiding close contact and sleeping separately for a brief period.

Some patients may experience mild, temporary side effects including neck tenderness or swelling, sore throat, nausea or vomiting, salivary gland swelling or tenderness, dry mouth, or taste changes. The most common long-term effect is hypothyroidism, which is anticipated and easily managed with daily thyroid hormone replacement. There is a very small risk of developing certain cancers, such as leukemia or salivary gland cancer, later in life; however, this is extremely rare. Fertility issues are uncommon, although women are advised to avoid pregnancy for 6–12 months and men to avoid conception for at least 6 months post-treatment.

In summary, RAI therapy is generally safe and highly effective for treating thyroid disorders. Most side effects are mild and temporary, and the primary long-term consequence is the need for lifelong thyroid hormone supplementation.

Dr. Tittu Oommen MD,DM

Yes, it’s generally reasonable for people with diabetes to eat nuts in moderation. Nuts can be an excellent snack for people with diabetes when consumed in moderation and as part of a balanced diet. Their combination of fiber, protein, and healthy fats makes them a great choice for maintaining steady blood sugar levels and supporting heart health. Here are a few reasons why nuts can be a good choice:

1. Low Glycemic Index: Nuts have a low glycemic index (GI), which means they have a minimal effect on blood sugar levels. This is important for managing diabetes, as foods with a high GI can cause spikes in blood sugar.

2. Healthy Fats: Nuts, especially varieties like almonds, walnuts, and pistachios, are rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy. This is important for people with diabetes, as they have an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

3. Fiber and Protein: Nuts provide fiber and protein, which help slow the absorption of sugar and promote satiety (feeling full), potentially reducing overeating and helping maintain stable blood sugar levels.

4. Micronutrients: Nuts are rich in important nutrients like magnesium, potassium, and vitamin E, which support overall health and may help regulate blood sugar.

Tips to Remember

• Portion Control: Nuts are calorie-dense, so it’s essential to practice portion control. A small handful (about 1 ounce or 28 grams) per serving is usually sufficient.

• Choose Unsweetened, Unsalted Nuts: Some flavored nuts may have added sugar or excess salt, which can affect blood sugar and blood pressure, respectively.

• Variety: Different nuts offer various benefits, so mixing up your choices—such as almonds, walnuts, pistachios, and cashews—can provide a broader range of nutrients.

Watch out

• Added Sugars: Avoid nuts that are coated in sugar or sweeteners, as this can spike blood sugar levels.

• Salt: Opt for unsalted nuts to prevent excessive sodium intake, which can be a concern for heart health and blood pressure.

• Allergies: Nut allergies are common, so always check for reactions, especially if introducing new types of nuts.

If you have diabetes, try including a variety of nuts in your diet and consult with a healthcare professional or dietitian to ensure they fit into your individual meal plan.

Ms.Revathy V K, MSc

A child may be short due to various reasons. The most common cause is genetic short stature when a child is short because the parents are short. These children are normal physiologically but end up short in height due to genetics. These children are unlikely to gain any extra height by taking growth hormone.

Some children may be short due to chronic diseases, such as chronic asthma, gastrointestinal diseases, anaemia, or congenital heart disease. These children will benefit from treating their primary disease, but they may not get any significant benefits from using growth hormone.

However, children with growth hormone deficiency, Turner syndrome, or idiopathic short stature will improve in height when receiving growth hormones. Your endocrinologist can diagnose precisely and decide if your child may benefit from using growth hormone.

Dr. Mathew John MD, DM

While diabetes doesn’t directly cause depression, its complex management and emotional burden can increase the risk. There is a higher risk of depression in people with diabetes.

People with diabetes, especially with associated complications like heart or kidney disease, may require multiple medicines, tests, periodic doctor visits and occasional hospitalisation. Further, they must take drugs on time, test glucose at home, consume appropriate food and exercise daily to maintain normal glucose levels. These complex and continuous rituals may lead to stress and difficulties in coping.

All of us feel overwhelmed at times with our daily routines. But having depression is different. Please see the chart below to understand the symptoms of depression.

Depression can significantly impact diabetes management, affecting physical, mental, and emotional well-being. It can:

• Disrupt healthy diet and exercise habits
• Impede self-care and lifestyle choices
• Worsen blood sugar control

What can you do if you have emotional or physical symptoms of depression?

1. Talk to your doctor about your feelings
2. Discuss with your family
3. Meet a mental health professional physically or online for help
4. If your symptoms merit medicines or psychotherapy, consider the same actively.
5. Check with your doctor if any aspects of your disease ( e.g. blood sugars, blood pressure, complications) or medicines are worsening your depression.

As a person with diabetes, you have the right to feel good, well and healthy. Take steps to improve self-care and well-being.

Ms. Aneesha Joseph, MSc

Intermittent fasting has emerged as a popular dietary strategy among individuals seeking to lose weight. While weight loss can yield numerous health advantages, it is vital to acknowledge the potential side effects associated with this approach, which may include headaches, fatigue, hypoglycemia, insomnia, nausea, and dizziness.

One significant health concern reported during intermittent fasting is headaches, often attributed to dehydration. Factors contributing to dehydration include insufficient fluid intake, decreased consumption of tea and coffee, the consistency and type of diet followed, levels of physical activity, and environmental conditions. Additionally, individuals who skip meals or restrict caloric intake may experience adverse effects (hypoglycemia), particularly those on diabetes medications, as well as potential electrolyte imbalances in those taking blood pressure medications.

As people lose weight, their blood pressure can drop. So, people on blood pressure-lowering medicines may need to adjust their doses.

Therefore, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare team before initiating intermittent fasting and maintain communication throughout the process. This guidance can help ensure a healthier approach by selecting a plan that aligns with your lifestyle and minimizing the risk of side effects associated with intermittent fasting.

Mrs. Rejitha Jagesh, MSc

Unwanted hair growth, particularly on the face, can be frustrating and impact self-confidence for many women. Having hair, especially on the chin and lips, may not necessarily mean you have PCOS. Excessive facial hair growth, including hair on the chin, can have various underlying causes, such as genetics, hormonal imbalances, and certain medical conditions. PCOS is one of the possible contributors, but it is not the only factor.

Usually, women have fine, light-coloured, barely noticeable hairs that grow above the lips or on the chin, chest, abdomen, or back. This usually develops during childhood. When there is excessive growth of dark or coarse hair, it is called hirsutism .

Hirsutism is excessively thick and dark-coloured hair growth in areas such as the upper lip, chin, back, chest, belly button, or inner thighs. It is due to an increase in male hormones. 70% to 80% of all people with PCOS develop hirsutism. Typically, women produce small amounts of male hormones(testosterone) in their bodies, just as males do female hormones. However, if you have PCOS, your body likely produces higher amounts of male hormones. In addition to PCOS, several other hormone disorders can also cause hirsutism.

Hirsutism in PCOS may be associated with other symptoms like irregular periods, persistent acne, and hair loss in the scalp. However, many diseases, including those affecting the thyroid, ovaries, adrenal or pituitary, can cause hirsutism.

It’s a good idea to see your doctor if you feel there is unusual hair growth.

Dr. Tittu Oommen MD, DM

Since the mid-80’s synthetic growth hormone is used in the treatment of children who have growth hormone (GH) deficiency and other conditions causing short stature. It is a safe and effective treatment. There are a few side effects. Fortunately, serious side effects are rare.
Although infrequent, there are some possible side effects that you should be aware of. They are:
·Allergic reaction, including swelling at the injection site or rash.
·Hip, knee, or other joint pain.
·Headache
·Progression of spine curvature in patients with scoliosis
The side effects are more pronounced in people who obtain injectable HGH for off-label purposes (uses for which it was not approved by the FDA) and through Internet pharmacies, anti-aging clinics, and web sites.
Growth hormone is not given to people who have tumours or cancer. Sometimes kids may require growth hormone if they have deficiency after receiving cranial radiation or after surgeries of the skull. In these cases, the endocrinologist will be in touch with the neurosurgeon before starting growth hormone to make sure that there is no additional risk. Contact your treating endocrinologist for the expert advice and treatment options with Growth hormone.

Author
Dr Tittu Oommen

GH is given as injections. It is given subcutaneously (below the skin) just as insulin is injected. Once a decision is taken to start GH, the endocrinologist will discuss various options: this will include liquid GH preparations and those with lyophilised powder which needs to be reconstituted before injection. Various kid friendly injection devices are available in the market. GH must be stored in the refrigerator between 2 and 8 degrees.
Despite being an injection, we have never seen kids refusing growth hormone after the initial few days.

Author
Rejitha Jagesh

Adequate nutrient intake and good health is undoubtedly an indicator for appropriate growth. Nutritional growth retardation and delayed puberty is more prevalent among population who are malnourished. The distinctive feature of malnutrition is low weight for height. By improving their nutritional status, these kids can achieve catch-up growth. Studies have shown that there is lower intake of proteins, fats, calcium, and iron in children with short stature. Hence nutritional assessment is important while evaluating a child with poor growth. Even in kids on growth hormone treatment, an appropriate intake of nutrients is encouraged.
Sometimes kids have malabsorption resulting in poor absorption of food. Children may have poor absorption of food related to various problems like celiac disease, chronic bowel diseases, worm infestations, and pancreatic disease. Various kidney related diseases, heart diseases, and diseases of thyroid and adrenal may further reduce appetite. A possibility of food fads, poor calcium intake (due to lactose intolerance) or eating disorders (e.g. anorexia nervosa) should also be considered in the appropriate circumstances.

Author
Rejitha Jagesh