Triiodothyronine (T3) supplementation in major depressive disorder

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: The use of thyroid hormones to enhance the effects of antidepressants is based on evidence supporting a link between thyroid function and Major Depressive Disorder. Thyroid abnormalities have been found in patients with Major Depressive Disorder and have been correlated with depression severity. Symptoms associated with clinical hypothyroidism include mood disturbances, primarily depression. In addition, an increase in antidepressant treatment resistance has been associated with thyroid abnormalities. This article reviews the existing data regarding triiodothyronine (T3) supplementation of antidepressants in the treatment of major depressive disorder. Methods: Medline and EMBASE were searched from 1996 to November 2014 using the key terms triiodothyronine, T3, and treatment-resistant depression. Results: T3 may increase serotonergic neurotransmission and has been studied as an add-on agent in patients with unipolar depression with and without thyroid dysfunction to accelerate, enhan...