Thyroid hormone replacement for subclinical hypothyroidism

• Research type

  Research Study

• Full title

  Multi-modal effects of Thyroid hormone Replacement for Untreated older adults with Subclinical hypothyroidism; a randomised placebo-controlled Trial (TRUST)

• IRAS ID

  83211

• Contact name

  David Stott

• Eudract number

  2011-004554-26

• Research summary

  Subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) is a common condition (8-18%) among older men and women. Although by definition SCH comprises biochemically mild thyroid hormone deficiency without overt symptoms, it is a possible contributor to multiple problems in older age. Thyroid hormone has effects on numerous physiological systems, including the vascular tree, heart, skeletal muscle and brain. Therefore, thyroxine substitution to overcome thyroid hormone deficiency has the potential to give multi-system benefits to older people with SCH. Small studies have reported reduced atherosclerosis and improved heart function with thyroxine replacement, but no large clinical trials have been performed. Therefore the available evidence is limited, leading to major variations in guidelines and clinical practice, with uncertainty regarding the indications for screening and treatment. We propose a multicentre randomised placebo-controlled trial to assess the impact of thyroxine replacement in 3,000 older adults with persisting SCH (excluding those in whom it is a temporary phenomenon who are unlikely to benefit). We will include older men and women with a wide age range and of varying health status. Outcomes include cardiovascular events, health-related quality of life, muscle strength and executive cognitive function over 3-years of follow-up. Blood and urine samples will be stored in a biobank, to allow future research on causes of ill-health in older people with SCH. We have the support of patient advocacy groups and a consortium with the wide range of expertise and experience required to conduct large-scale multicentre clinical trials. The proposal explores the multi-system and quality-of-life benefits to older people of a tailored approach to management of SCH. This clinical trial should definitively clarify whether thyroxine treatment for SCH provides benefits that are relevant for patients. This trial will provide strong evidence with the potential to improve clinical practice, reduce healthcare costs and promote healthy ageing of older adults.

• REC name

  Scotland A REC

• REC reference

  11/SS/0071

• Date of REC Opinion

  19 Dec 2011

• REC opinion

  Further Information Favourable Opinion