Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH)

Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone is the main pituitary hormone signaling the thyroid gland. TSH is inversely associated with thyroid hormone production, so elevated TSH is associated with low thyroid hormone production and low TSH reflects elevated thyroid hormone production. TSH levels may be used as a screening for hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism as well as monitoring medication usage. ZRT uses tighter ranges based on the Endocrine Society and Laboratory recommendations.

Before You Start

• Read the provided test collection instructions carefully.
• Watch the test collection video.
• You can collect your sample at any time.
• Talk to your healthcare provider before collection if you are taking steriods.
• Collect your sample halfway between doses of these medications.
  • Hormone patches
  • Vaginal rings
  • Hormone pellets
  • Hormone injectables

3 Days Before Collection

• DO NOT use anti-aging/anti-wrinkle face creams.
• DO NOT take biotin/vitamin B7.
• DO NOT take 7-keto DHEA.

2 Days Before Collection

• Stop applying topical hormones with your bare hands. Use latex gloves, an applicator, or a hormone-loaded syringe.
• Stop applying topical hormones on your face, lips, and neck.

1 Day Before Collection

• If you use topical hormones, change your sheets, pillowcases, and hand towels the night before collection.
• DO NOT touch any surfaces that may be contaminated with topical hormones.
• Take any night oral, topical, troche, or sublingual hormones at least 12 hours Before Collection.

Day of Collection

• Collect your sample within one hour of waking.