Hypothyroidism Caused by Treatment???

[Imagine121]

Three months ago, I completed 36 weeks of treatment (Peg + Copeg) for HCV, Genotype I. I was UND at 12, 24, and 36 weeks. I had many of the side-effects during treatment and after treatment as well.

Now at three months post-treatment, I have been diagnosed with hypothyroidism (under-active thyroid) and this appears to explain my symptoms. It seems hypothyroidism has symptoms similar to depression. My doctor has prescribed replacement hormone therapy with a drug called Euthyrox. I started taking this five days ago and was told I might start feeling better in two weeks.

Here are my questions:
1. Has anyone on the forum had a similar experience with hypothyroidism?
2. Also, does anyone have knowledge as to what may cause hypothyroidism in hcv treatment?
3. Is hypothyroidism a possible side-effect of interferon?

At the least, I am relieved to have possibly found the cause for my post-treatment side-effects.

Thanks to all for the great forum. It has help me through this challenge of treatment.

[nygirl7]

I answered this yesterday on the post below.

[CockSparrow]

Yes Interferon can cause thyroid issues.
Here is what the Pegasys Insert has to say under Warnings

Endocrine Disorders
Pegasys causes or aggravates hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. Hyperglycemia, Hypoglycemia and diabeties mellitius have been observed to develop in patients treated with Pegasys.
Patients with these conditions at baseline who cannot be effectively treated by medication should not begin Pegasys therapy.
Patients who develop these conditions during treatment and cannot be effectively treated by medication may require discontinuation of Pegasys therapy

Althiough I am not one who did Quite a few here have developed thyroid issues during Tx.

All the Best
CS