Hypothyroidism, defined by elevated thyrotropin (TSH) levels, is a common endocrine complication in chronic kidney disease patients, and prior evidence shows that higher TSH levels, even within the normal laboratory range, are strongly associated with impaired quality of life and cardiovascular disease in this population. Levothyroxine is one of the most frequently prescribed medications in chronic kidney disease, yet its efficacy and safety in these patients have not been well-studied. Hence, this study will investigate 1) whether levothyroxine improves patient-centered (e.g., health-related quality of life, physical performance, strength) and 2) cardiovascular (e.g., coronary artery calcification, endothelial function, systolic function) outcomes in dialysis patients, and 3) if thyroid hormone replacement exerts classic metabolic effects (i.e., changes in body fat and resting energy expenditure) in this population.
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Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQOL) - Short Form 36 Physical Component Score
Timeframe: Week 0 (pre-trial/baseline)
Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQOL) - Short Form 36 Physical Component Score
Timeframe: Week 12
Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQOL) - Short Form 36 Physical Component Score
Timeframe: Week 24
Coronary Artery Calcification (CAC) - Volume Score
Timeframe: Week 0 (pre-trial/baseline)
Coronary Artery Calcification (CAC) - Volume Score
Timeframe: Week 24