Why are so many geriatrics on levothyroxine?

[TwoHighways]

I’m no doctor, but I encounter this patient population regularly with several nursing homes in my district. I don’t understand why so many frail, elderly women are taking a synthetic version of a hormone that speeds up your metabolism. Would anyone be willing to explain why as well if it is warranted?

---

Members don't see this ad.

 

[Treebeard]

They were diagnosed with hypothyroidism.

 

[BeautifulSmiles523]

Because old people have a decline in thyroid function... that's easy.