Effect ofL-Tri-Iodothyronine Alone and Combined withL-Thyroxine in Nonmyxedematous Hypometabolism

Abstract

THE dramatic relief of the clinical manifestations of myxedema by the administration of desiccated thyroid is a striking example of the efficacy of hormone replacement therapy. Many patients are seen, however, with persistently low basal metabolic rates¶ and with symptoms usually associated with thyroid deficiency (muscle or joint aching or stiffness, chronic fatigue, lethargy, facial or periorbital puffiness), in whom the administration of large doses of thyroid or l-thyroxine does not elevate the basal metabolic rate or relieve the symptoms. We have considered the possibility that such patients are unable to utilize — that is, to absorb, convert to . . .