On-the-spot blood thyroid-stimulating hormone testing in pharmacies.

Why TSH testing matters in pharmacy?

TSH is the primary marker used to assess thyroid function. Measuring TSH helps detect underactive or overactive thyroid conditions early, supporting pharmacies in deliver timely support and personalised guidance for their customers.

Benefits of offering TSH testing in pharmacies:

• Deliver rapid and reliable thyroid function screening to customers.
• Expand the variety of health services available in-store.
• Support early identification of thyroid issues, including in pregnant individuals.
• Strengthen customer trust through personalized health advice and referrals.

How is TSH measured?

• Sample: Blood. 
• Units: mIU/L (mU/L).

Interpretation: TSH can be reviewed independently or together with T3 and T4. Always follow the instructions for use (IFU) provided to your pharmacy with the device and a test kit.

TSH testing with Igloo Reader Pro

TSH can be measured from a small capillary sample with the Igloo Reader Pro in pharmacy or any other health-related business workflows. Results can be tracked in the app and reviewed alongside T4 and T3.

Advantages of TSH testing with the Igloo Reader Pro for pharmacies:

• Provide fast, accurate TSH results at the point of care.
• Seamlessly incorporate testing into daily pharmacy routines.
• Enhance service offerings with convenient, in-house thyroid screening.
• Create new revenue opportunities through testing and follow-up care.

What are normal TSH values?

Normal ranges of TSH are typically wide - from 0.4 mIU/L to 4.5 mIU/L - and may depend on the laboratory and measurement device.

What are low and high TSH levels?

• A very low TSH level: <0.4 mIU/L.

• High TSH level: >4.5 mIU/L.

It is important to underline that many laboratories have slightly different guidelines and reference intervals, which should be taken into consideration while looking at the clinical context. The normal ranges may differ depending on age, sex, and other parameters.

In cases of abnormal TSH levels, pharmacies and other point-of-care health-related businesses can provide guidance on potential iodine-rich dietary sources and commonly recommended supplements, while always referring customers to a clinician for personalized evaluation and supplementation advice.

Why pharmacies should offer TSH testing?

Using the Igloo Reader Pro for TSH testing enables pharmacies to deliver efficient, trustworthy thyroid health assessments quickly and conveniently at the point-of-care. This empowers pharmacists to identify thyroid dysfunction earlier, provide personalized guidance, and facilitate timely referrals to healthcare providers. By integrating this advanced testing technology into their services, pharmacies can  strengthen their role as accessible healthcare hubs, and open new pathways for growth through expanded preventive care offerings.

Learn more about the Pharmacy Starter Kit >

Literature

• NIH National Library of Medicine - Thyroid Stimulating Hormone
• NIH Office of Dietary Supplements - Iodine: Fact Sheet for Health Professionals.
• Martin I. Surks, TSH Reference Limits: New Concepts and Implications for Diagnosis of Subclinical Hypothyroidism, Endocrine Practice, 19, 6, 2013, 1066-1069, ISSN 1530-891X.

Disclaimer

This information is educational and does not qualify for a medical advice. Always use local reference ranges and consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.