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What can happen if I stop taking meds for hypothyroidism?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism and growth hormone deficiency as a child, but stopped taking the medication at 18. I am now 23 and have noticed a few symptoms.

Extreme fatigue, depression, anxiety, weight gain, and headaches. I feel that the symptoms have worsened. What could be the potential result of not taking the medication?

Please advise.

Thank you.
Answered by Dr. Bindiya Thakkar

Education:

DM Endocrine and Diabetes,USA, Harvard University and Boston University

Professional Bio:

Dr.Bindiya Thakkar is a highly skilled and established physician in the field of Diabetology, Endocrinology. She listens to all the patient queries deliberately and is an expert in devising a proper treatment plan.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

I have a few follow-up questions. Please answer them.

1. What was the reason for the hypothyroidism and growth hormone deficiency?

2. Were there any other hormone deficiencies as well? What other medical problems do you have?

3. When did you last have your thyroid blood work done? Can you send the results of the laboratory?

Treatment for hypothyroidism is extremely important as it is a metabolic hormone, and your body and all organs need it for functioning well. Without this, everything in the body can get sluggish, such as weight gain, depression, tiredness, and cold intolerance, and in extreme cases, it will lead to hospitalization, complications like hypothermia (decreased body temperature), slow heart rate, and coma.

Growth hormone deficiency treatment is required for the growth of bones and muscles in childhood, but in adulthood, the treatment recommendation will depend on the cause of the deficiency.

I hope this helps you.

Thank you.

Answered by
Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At August 6, 2016
Reviewed At June 8, 2026

Education:

DM Endocrine and Diabetes,USA, Harvard University and Boston University

Professional Bio:

Dr.Bindiya Thakkar is a highly skilled and established physician in the field of Diabetology, Endocrinology. She listens to all the patient queries deliberately and is an expert in devising a proper treatment plan.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality

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Concerned about stopping hypothyroidism medication?

Five quick questions help you understand the potential impact of stopping your thyroid medication and when to talk to a doctor. Medications should be taken after consulting a physician. The dosages will be prescribed by the physician. Do not alter, start, or stop medications without consulting a healthcare professional.

For guidance only, not a diagnosis. Always consult a healthcare professional before changing medication.
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Endocrinology

Education:

DM Endocrine and Diabetes,USA, Harvard University and Boston University

Professional Bio:

Dr.Bindiya Thakkar is a highly skilled and established physician in the field of Diabetology, Endocrinology. She listens to all the patient queries deliberately and is an expert in devising a proper treatment plan.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality
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