Dulse - Desiccated Thyroid Extract Interaction
Herbal: Dulse
Also Known As: Palmaria palmata, Rhodymenia palmata
Drug: Desiccated Thyroid Extract
Brand names:
Westhroid, WP Thyroid
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
May 25, 2025
Interaction Details
Desiccated Thyroid Extract is classified as belonging to the following category: Thyroid Hormone
Theoretically, due to its iodine content, dulse might alter the effects of thyroid hormone.
Dulse is rich in iodine. Iodine in high doses has been reported to cause both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism, depending on the individual's past medical history. Although dulse has been associated with a statistically significant increase in thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels in clinical research, clinically significant increases have not been documented.
Interaction Rating
Likelihood of Occurrence
PossibleInteraction has been documented in animal or in lab research, or the interaction has been documented in humans but is limited to case reports or conflicting clinical research exists
References
- Allsopp P, Crowe W, Bahar B, et al. The effect of consuming Palmaria palmata-enriched bread on inflammatory markers, antioxidant status, lipid profile and thyroid function in a randomised placebo-controlled intervention trial in healthy adults. Eur J Nutr
- Takase T, Nakamura A, Miyoshi H, et al. Effects of Palmaria palmata on lipid metabolism and glycemic control in participants with hypercholesterolemia in a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial. Phytother Res. 2020.
Dulse Overview
Dulse, a red seaweed found along the rocky coasts of northern Europe, northern Japan, and North America, is not only a part of various cuisines but is also gaining attention for potential health benefits. While generally considered safe in normal food amounts, caution is advised when considering medicinal use, especially during pregnancy or lactation, as there is limited safety information available. Dulse contains relatively high levels of potassium, iodine, protein, and various polyphenols. Some research suggests it may have anti-inflammatory effects, though its impact on lipid levels is still under investigation.
Dulse - More Interactions
Dulse interacts with 85 drugs
Interaction Rating Key
These severity listings are for informational use only. Never start, stop or otherwise change your therapy before speaking with your provider.
| Major | The combined use of these agents is strongly discouraged as serious side effects or other negative outcomes could occur. |
| Moderate | Use cautiously under the care of a healthcare professional or avoid this combination. A significant interaction or negative outcome could occur. |
| Minor | Be aware that there is a chance of an interaction. Watch for warning signs of a potential interaction. |
| Unknown | No interactions have been reported or no interaction data is currently available. |
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Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.
DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.
© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC
Drug descriptions are provided by MedlinePlus.
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In addition to being a clinical pharmacist specializing in pharmacotherapy, Dr. Brian Staiger is a registered herbalist through the American Herbalist Guild. He has combined his passion for pharmacy practice with the study of medical ethnobotany to improve patient care. Feel free to reach out about any of your herbal or medication questions!
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