info regarding levothyroxine and bone loss

Posted by marthainbend @marthainbend, Aug 12, 2025

My last Dexa scan was disappointing since previously they had been at least level. I realized that the main variable was in my meds. I switched from Armor thyroid to Levothyroxine and also I had begun a low dose statin.
So I began researching as a lay person. In short, I learned from my google search, that the low dose statin is not harmful to bone health, however a recent (Nov, 2024) press release by the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) states that Levothyroxine, prescribed for hypothyroidism, may be associated with bone loss in older adults. I’m 76 years old, not new to osteoporosis prevention meds nor thyroid meds. I certainly will speak to my PCP about this, but I wonder, since so many adults take thyroid medications, is the detrimental effect on bone health new information? Is it true?

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Osteoporosis & Bone Health Support Group.

blueberre | @blueberre | Dec 25, 2025

In reply to @laura1970 "@blueberre yes I would argue that a TSH in the 3-4 range would be best for..." + (show)

@laura1970 Agree. Just saw a new endo. I questioned her about BHRT for bones, but she said she doesn't used estrogen therapy for osteoporosis. She did agree to lower my Synthroid dose, but in the process of verifying my levels and doses. She wants mt to start Prolia or Evenity in the meantime. Have not made any decisions yet, but leaning against it.

laura1970 | @laura1970 | Dec 25, 2025

In reply to @blueberre "@laura1970 Agree. Just saw a new endo. I questioned her about BHRT for bones, but she..." + (show)

@blueberre Ashe said she didn’t use HRT for bones? Huh. Might try a consultation with a gynecologist.

blueberre | @blueberre | Dec 26, 2025

In reply to @laura1970 "@blueberre Ashe said she didn’t use HRT for bones? Huh. Might try a consultation with a..." + (show)

@laura1970 agree. I live in a rural area, so hard to keep doctors here. I have a request in for a different doctor who is an ob/gyn, but apparently has a waiting list.

laura1970 | @laura1970 | Dec 27, 2025

In reply to @blueberre "@laura1970 agree. I live in a rural area, so hard to keep doctors here. I have..." + (show)

@blueberre see if u can get on a cancellation list

blueberre | @blueberre | Dec 27, 2025

In reply to @laura1970 "@blueberre see if u can get on a cancellation list" + (show)

@laura1970 good idea. I simply filled out the on line form, but a phone call for waiting list might be a better idea.

lwmarcrum | @lwmarcrum | Dec 28, 2025

I had thyroid cancer 23 years ago and had my thyroid completely removed, so I’ve been on Synthroid and Cytomel ever since, and I was told when I was put on it that I should also start taking calcium as the Synthroid increases the risk of osteoporosis. Flash forward - yep, I have osteoporosis.

alinass26 | @alinass26 | Dec 28, 2025

I take Synthriod and I have osteoporosis…. These informations are very helpful also very disappointing….why doctors don’t tell patients about this?

blueberre | @blueberre | Dec 29, 2025

I have read that over prescribed Synthroid is the problem, but how exactly do you track that? My last TSH was 1.2 and I am 68. My new endo says it should be 3 or 4 at my age. In the process of reducing the dose, but being on 75mcg for 20 years, the damage has been done. Now they want me to inject myself with Prolia or Evinity? No one in my family ever was tested for osteoporosis. No one ever broke any bones.