- Levothyroxine contains only T4, and your body must convert it to the active T3 hormone, but many patients cannot make this conversion efficiently causing weight gain despite medication.
- Adding T3 (liothyronine) as approximately 20% of your total thyroid hormone dose alongside your T4 produces significantly better weight loss than T4-only therapy.
- Check your free T3 and total T3 levels rather than relying on TSH alone to determine if your levothyroxine is actually being converted to the active form your body needs.
- Combining your thyroid medication with proper diet, exercise, and at least 7-8 hours of sleep each night is essential for weight loss since thyroid hormone alone cannot overcome lifestyle factors.
Are you on levothyroxine but still gaining weight?
Believe it or not, this is a big problem for a lot of people.
But how can you be gaining weight on a medication that is supposed to increase your metabolism? Is this even possible?
Absolutely.
The truth is that levothyroxine doesn’t necessarily increase your metabolism and studies show that most people who start it typically don’t lose any weight at all.
Worse than this, some people gain weight when they take it.
Today I’m going to explain why this phenomenon happens and what you can do about it if it has already happened to you.
You Can Take Levothyroxine & Still Not Have Enough T3
The first thing you need to understand about levothyroxine is that it contains a thyroid hormone that is considered inactive.
By itself, it doesn’t do anything except act as a reservoir for T3 and T3 is the most active thyroid hormone in your body.
When doctors prescribe levothyroxine, they are doing so with the intent that your body will be able to activate it so it can be used.
But that doesn’t always happen.
In fact, many thyroid patients are unable to activate T4 into T3 and have what we refer to as a thyroid conversion problem.
And to make matters worse, some people create the anti-thyroid metabolite reverse T3, instead.
Reverse T3 acts to block the binding of T3 at the cellular level.
The more reverse T3 you have, the less functional your thyroid is.
How Levothyroxine Causes weight gain
So how does this all relate to levothyroxine and weight gain?
We can look at some studies to help us understand:
Take for instance this study.
In it, patients were given T4-only medications and treated based on their TSH, very similar to pretty much everyone reading this right now.
The researchers then tested their resting energy expenditure (in other words, their metabolism) both before they added the thyroid hormone and after they suppressed the TSH.
And do you know what they found?
They found that thyroid patients taking thyroid hormone, even with a suppressed TSH, did not see an increase in their metabolism or their body weight.
This would run counter to what you would expect, especially given that thyroid hormone is the major regulator of metabolism in the body.
Either physiologists have been wrong about thyroid hormone for centuries, or, it may have something to do with the type of medication that these patients were given.
In other words, would they have lost weight if they used a thyroid medication that contained T3 instead of T4?
That’s a more interesting question that was answered in this study:
In this study, patients were given either a T4-only medication (like levothyroxine) or a Desiccated Thyroid Extract (like Armour Thyroid) and evaluated over a period of time.
They found that those patients who were taking the desiccated thyroid extract experienced “modest” weight loss to the tune of about 3 pounds compared to the T4-only group.
This may not sound like a lot of weight loss but remember, it happened without any other intervention.
These results support the idea that thyroid hormone regulates metabolism, but that T3 does a much better job than levothyroxine.
But we don’t have to stop here, there’s one more study worth mentioning:
This one compared equivalent doses of both T4 and T3 thyroid medication, based on the TSH, and then evaluated for body weight and cholesterol.
This study showed that patients who were taking T3-only medication had more weight loss and better cholesterol than patients who were taking T4-only medication.
In other words, pound-for-pound, T3 thyroid hormone is far more effective than T4 thyroid medication at managing thyroid function.
And practically speaking, this means that levothyroxine will not have any impact on weight for most people who take it.
This may be news to you, but it isn’t to most doctors. They are just afraid to prescribe T3.
Which is why it’s important to note here that the patients in this study who took T3 did not have any change in their blood pressure, heart rate, or insulin sensitivity which are the common reasons doctors give for not prescribing T3.
These three studies do not prove that levothyroxine will necessarily or automatically cause you to gain weight, but they do shed light on how it’s unlikely to help you lose weight.
When you combine this fact with the real scenario that many thyroid patients are being under-treated and not taking full advantage of lifestyle changes like diet and exercise, it’s easy to see why so many people report weight gain when taking it.
The good news is that you do not have to accept this weight gain because there are things that you can do about it:
Step #1: Check your free T3 and Total T3
The absolute best way to know if levothyroxine is working for you is by evaluating these two lab tests.
The reason it works is simple:
Remember, levothyroxine only contains T4 thyroid hormone, but in order to be used by the body, it must be turned into T3.
So if you are taking levothyroxine and you are not seeing an increase in your free T3 or total T3 afterward, then it is very likely that your body is not activating it.
And we know from the studies that I mentioned before if you are not activating it then it will not have the positive impact that you are looking for on your metabolism.
Unfortunately, many doctors are often unwilling to order these tests, usually because they don’t know how to interpret them, which is where step #2 comes into play:
Step #2: Check your basal body temperature and resting heart rate
You don’t have to do this step if you can get your free T3 and total T3 labs checked, but if you can’t, for whatever reason, or if you just want to get started right away, you can look at these two metrics.
Both your heart rate and body temperature can be used as proxy measurements of global thyroid function.
They aren’t perfect, but they are a down-and-dirty method that can give you an idea as to whether or not your body is activating your levothyroxine.
They work because as T3 increases, so too will your resting heart rate and basal body temperature as these are both correlated with basal metabolic rate.
You will know pretty quickly if levothyroxine is not doing its job because your body temperature will be less than 98.6 degrees and your resetting heart rate will be in the 50s.
Someone who has normal thyroid function and normal T3 levels should see a normal body temperature and a resting heart rate somewhere in the 70s.
Step #3: Create a more comprehensive thyroid hormone routine
As I alluded to previously, it’s actually really to solve this problem and help your levothyroxine do its job.
All you need to do is mimic the thyroid hormone production of the healthy thyroid gland.
This makes a lot of intuitive sense, but, for whatever reason, very few doctors and patients actually do it.
The healthy thyroid gland produces a combination of T4, T3, and T2 thyroid hormones.
But when you take levothyroxine, you are only giving your body one of those three important hormones.
The reality is that you can take all three and doing so helps many thyroid patients get back to feeling 100%.
For most people, it looks like this:
- 80% of your total thyroid dose should be T4 as levothyroxine or some equivalent – Practically speaking, this is usually around 80 to 100 mcg.
- 20 % of your total thyroid hormone dose should be T3 as liothyronine or some equivalent – Practically speaking, this is usually between 5-20 mcg.
- 100 to 200 mcg of T2 thyroid hormone as 3,5 diiodo-l-thyronine – T2 is the only thyroid hormone available over the counter and can be purchased in supplement form.
I’ve already done the research to come up with these ratios and doses and they are based on what the healthy thyroid gland produces and what most thyroid patients feel better on.
Some deviation may be needed, of course, but I would recommend starting here.
Does this mean that levothyroxine never works?
Does Levothyroxine Ever Cause Weight Loss?
Does this mean that levothyroxine never works?
Not at all.
There are definitely some people who get by just fine using only levothyroxine without any other thyroid hormones.
You really won’t find those people around here, though, because as a percentage of the whole, they are relatively small at around 20%.
And they don’t go around looking for advice on how to lose weight on levothyroxine because they don’t have that problem.
But the truth is that levothyroxine is fine for a small minority of people as long as they are able to activate it.
What’s key here is understanding that just because levothyroxine by itself doesn’t work for many thyroid patients, it doesn’t mean that it is a bad medication.
Unfortunately, this is the conclusion that many thyroid patients jump to.
It’s not that levothyroxine is bad; it’s that your body is unable to use it.
But this problem can be solved with the addition of other thyroid hormones.
So don’t make the mistake of thinking that you must use a certain type of thyroid medication to feel better.
After all, levothyroxine is incredibly easy to get and incredibly cheap.
In a perfect world, all thyroid patients would be taking thyroid hormone cream that includes T4, T3, and T2 or Tirosint-Sol with liothyronine and T2, but we don’t live in that world and not everyone has access to these medications.
So in the meantime, don’t be afraid to play around with levothyroxine if that’s what’s available to you.
I have seen many thyroid patients get back to feeling 100% when using it in conjunction with T3 and T2.
By the way, many thyroid patients have never heard about T2.
If that’s you, then I would recommend reading this article next.
It discusses the amazing benefits of this thyroid hormone and how it helps with weight loss.
Scientific References
#1. http://linkis.com/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/0wh6l
#2. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23539727
#3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3205882/
#4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8903695
#5. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2292454/
#6. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0072785/
#7. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3219766/
#8. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4737508/
#9. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8834378
#10. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2277319/
#11. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20883174
#12. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20823774
#13. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3630857
#14. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3520819/
#15. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3978663/
#16. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4056127/
#17. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21077724
#18. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25555216
#19. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19190113
I had my thyroid removed years ago and was put on SYNTHOIRD, 125mg daily. Every thing was fine,but 2 years ago I had to go on Obama care and my new Dr changed it to Levothyroxine and said it was no different! ! I have gained 28 pounds in a year and my new Dr said it’s ok…… I have never been this heavy and I am extremely uncomfortable! Can it be the meds? The Dr also said my thyroid # is high and wants to lower it!!!!#!
Hey Theresa,
Yes, your change could be related to change but also could be related to other factors such as hormonal changes, changes in stress/sleep, etc.
I’m still struggling with horrible fatigue. All thyroid tests suggested seem to indicate optimal ranges. Taking 315mg np thyroid (NP says that is maximum I can go on) plus 30mg of hydrocortisone for adrenal fatigue but still can’t lose weight. Still have hypothyroid symptoms. Gained 60lbs in 6 months about 3 years ago. Can’t get any weight to come off. Too tired to exercise or do much of anything but the minimum. Hungry all the time and cravings are bad. Premature ovarian failure so on BHRT as well. Have 2 nurse practitioners that have done tests thyroid tests suggested but no one can figure out the weight, fatigue and still some hypothyroid symptoms.
Hey Jen,
The ranges you see me quote on my site are really only in reference to patients not already on thyroid medication. Once you are on thyroid medication those ranges become relatively useless because you can manipulate thyroid values to say whatever you want by testing at a certain time or waiting several hours after you take your medication. I would also caution against hydrocortisone doses greater than 20mg per day due to HPA suppression that may occur from long term dosing.
I stumbled onto your blog 2 days ago and I haven’t stopped reading/researching since. Firstly, thank you for posting this subject matter in manner that makes sense to the average person.
I’m new to thyroid issues – In need fact what started me down this road was a thyroid perox result of for 7,132.1. My TSH and T4 we’re within the normal range albeit they were on the low end. 2 mos on levo-blahblah med and has not made any noted improvements. I’ve requested complete thyroid panel to include RT3. (Fingers crossed). What are your thoughts on the thy perox result? I’m told it’s the highest seen (by this doc) but beyond diagnosing Hashimotos no one seems to care about it.
Hey Laura,
Elevated thyroid antibodies are always concerning when accompanied with symptoms and other abnormal thyroid lab values. Also, and you probably already know this, asking your PCP and endo for those advanced tests is largely a waste of time since they don’t know how to interpret them.
After reading your blog, I requested the additional bloodwork. The latest results were taken after I stopped taking levothyrox…. for a little more than 2 weeks.
Orig results (November) prior to taking levothyrox….
TSH. .588. (.358-3.74)
FT4. 1.05. (.76-1.46)
No T3 tests at time
Started taking Levothyrox… medication
Latest results (Jan 26th) 2+weeks after stopping meds
TSH. .306
FT4. 1.02
FT3. 2.43. (2.18-3.98)
RT3. 20. (8-25)
Based on your comments indicating optimal levels I asked to take T3 medication instead and the doctor indicated it would drive the TSH even lower and not help.
I don’t understand … is this something you might be able to help explain?
Hey Laura,
The best thing you can do is find someone who understands what I’m talking about here that can help you further. General physicians (including endocrinologists) don’t understand these concepts and they treat solely based off of the TSH – which is why so many thyroid patients feel terrible and are overweight.
I am a male age 50 and I am struggling with consistent weight gain and cannot lose it. I have been on Levothyroxin for 10 years with a starting dose of 100 mcg to what I am on now at 150 mcg. I started out at 180lbs at age 40 and currently tip the scales at 256lbs with the majority of my weight centered in the midsection (skinny legs and arms). I have tried every diet on the planet including cutting to a 900 calorie a day Dr controlled diet and still gained weight. I had hired a professional trainer and was working out 5x’s a week with weight and cardio with zero weight loss. My entire family (both sides) are slim not a single obese person. I am the only one who has a weight problem! I am currently having my doctor run the battery of tests you show above as I quit taking the Levothyzoxin 2 weeks ago as I am fed up with this. I am going to try a homeopathic supplement called Calcarea carbonica 200C. Will see if this helps. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Hey Robert,
You should have fasting insulin, leptin and free & Total testosterone levels checked as well. This is probably not just 1 hormone problem, but many.
Hi Dr. Childs – first of all great article- this is the most comprehensive Thyroid/Hashimoto’s article I’ve read. For the first time since I was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s (almost 4 years ago), I finally understand the T4 to T3 conversion.
My Hashimoto’s story started about 4 years ago when I started losing my hair, feeling incredibly fatigued, stalled on weight loss and stopped getting my period. My blood tests showed TSH of 12. I saw 2 general doctors and an endocrinologist who didn’t want to put me on thyroid replacement drug because ‘my body would stop producing thyroid hormone’. 3 months later, I finally saw an Integrative medicine doctor who put me on Nature-throid – I finally started feeling better, started losing weight and stopped losing my hair.
My thyroid medication has fluctuated in the last 3 years and I’ve added Cytomel, removed Cytomel, added supplements (selenium and vitamin D) but I continue to gain weight. I’m up 20 pounds in the last 4 years. I still feel fatigue daily. On the positive, my menstrual cycle is normal and I’m not losing hair or eyebrows and I no longer have digestive issues but on the negative I cannot lose weight no matter what I do!
I exercise 5-6 days a week weight training and HIIT. I follow a whole foods, macro nutrient diet and weigh out my food to control portions. I’m roughly doing 40% protein, 30% fats, 20% carbs (more carbs on training days). Despite all of this I still cannot lose any weight!
The strangest thing I’ve experienced with Hashimoto’s is increased liver enzyme levels which have gotten worse in the past 3 years. I had a liver biopsy this past summer that was inconclusive – they said it was medically induced and that I had to monitor my levels.
For reference:
-AST 154
-ALT 242
-Lipoprotein-a > 95.0
-TSH 0.007
-T3 162
-T3U 26.4
-RT3 10.4
-FT3 3.3
-T4 6.9
-FT4 0.87
-Insulting (fasting) 2.9
-Glucose (fasting) 80
-Hemoglobin A1C 5.3
-Cortisol 15.6
-Anti-Thyroglobulin 419
-HDL 113
-LDL 194
-Ferritin 87
Right now I’m only taking 65MG of NT 3 times daily, 200MCG Selenium, 3 drops of iodine and Vitamin D.
In reading this article, I think the key to getting better for me will be to address adrenal issues, get my insulin in balance and reduce inflammation. I want to lose weight again!
Thank you again for this article and all of the information – it’s super comprehensive and I plan to keep getting informed!
Hey Daniela,
That sounds like a pretty good plan, just make sure to follow it up with the right treatment and management and you should be good to go.
Hi Dr Childs , Excellent Post , i have been Daiognised with hypo, iam on medication of thyroxine 25 mcg . iam 20 kgs over weight and iam from India . i do weight tarining , i do intermittent fasting and i eat clean . the only symptoms i have from Hypo is hair loss and weight gain. no other symptoms .
iam 40 years of and i work in night .
i work out regularly and i was not able to lose weight , i sleep for good eight hours , let me if i can start the medication with your help , as you said doctors here in india are not much knowledge
thank in advance my TSH levels are 5.6 other levels are in normal range
Hey Ravi,
I’m not accepting patients at this time, but you can learn more about how to lose weight here: https://www.restartmed.com/hormone-mastery/
HI Dr. Childs,
3 years ago, I was diagnosed with Hypo, and then Hashimoto’s .
I have been taking Levotyroxine 125mmg for the last 3 years.I have stopped having my period, and I have gained weight and no matter what I do I can not loose this weight. I am considering bariatric surgery as I am now up to 275 lbs! I have been following a no gluten, low fat diet and still nothing. I am now adding selenium to my diet by way of extra supplements, I have taken cytomel .05 and then stopped cytomel as no results came from the extra T3. I don’t know what else to do.
Hey Heather,
You also need to make sure you evaluate other hormone imbalances in your body like insulin and leptin resistance. Weight gain is a combination of multiple hormone imbalances, not just one (and usually not related to the thyroid in isolation).
I am on 175mcg of levo after total thyroid removal at first all was great but in the last year i have put on 30 pounds i feel miserable i had cancer so i know i am suppose to supressed hormone. I have talked to my Dr till i am blue in the face he keeps saying i am in normal range and wont change my medication my current test were T3 free 2.97 and T4 1.85 help me understand this and how to get through to my Dr that i feel not myself.
Hey Sandra,
Unfortunately there is nothing you can do to convince your provider to change your medication or your dose, your best bet is to find someone who is more knowledgable and can help you further.
I’m basically a mess. 35 year old female, retired military with 2 kids. So my adrenal glands are probably dried up from the military stress. Red headed too, so I metabolize things quite differently. And I don’t make my own Vitamin D. I have a deficiency.
Current meds:
Singular 10 mg
Claritin 10 mg
Wellbutrin XL 300 mg
Zoloft 25 mg
Topomax 50 mg
Atarax 10 mg
Flonase
ProAir inhaler
Restasis
Doc just added: Levothroxine 25mcg (having some ear pain side effects)
Recently been tired. I don’t sleep well, waking several times a night. I crash around 330 pm each day. Pretty sure it’s adrenal fatigue. Can’t find anyone around here to help me figure it out, including my doc.
Regular Doc Lab test results:
Morning Cortisol 8.9 mcg/dl
DHEA 40 Range:23-266
TSH: 1.446 Range: 0.358-3.74
T4 Free: 0.81 Range 0.76-1.46
T3 Free: 2.5 Range 2.3-4.2
Thyroid peroxidase antibodies: 1 Range <9
Thyroid stimulating immunoglobins: <89 Range: <140
Endo Doc lab test results:
Insulin like growth factor 1: 187ng/ml
My regular doc doesn't do adrenal testing/meds. My Endo, everyone here, including pharmacies, don't think highly of him. He put me on Ali to try and help me lose weight. Hasn't worked by the way. Been doing diet and exercise for over a year and haven't lost anything. My Sister in law is a pharmacist and wants me to take AdrenaCare by TaylorMD (supplement).
I have no idea what to do at this point. Any advice. Next steps? Anything? I live in Murray KY, so if you have a recommendation of who to see, I'll pay out of pocket if need be. Thank you.
Hey Candice,
The best thing you can do is find someone to help guide you through evaluation and treatment. In most cases you will need to pay out of pocket because most conventional physicians practice the same way. I do not know anyone in your area who practices like what you are reading on this blog, unfortunately.
I was diagnosed with Hashimotos back in 1993 after having my first child, I was 23. I saw specialist due to my thyroid gland was very enlarged. The only med I have ever been given is levo or synthroid. I have suffered with all those sympt and weight gain of over a 100 lbs through all these yrs. I always said I was eating right and exercised. No doctor put effort in to resolve this. Then finally a doctor recommended gastric bypass. I lost 80 lbs. But I still am 196 lbs. I work out and eat well. I can not budge and now I am starting to gain. My basal temp and heart rate is low and I am desperate for someone to help me get control of my bodies health.
Hey Christine,
The best thing you can do for your health is to find someone who understands what I’ve discussed in this post to help you further. Each person is very unique and requires different treatment.
My body temp is always 97.4 or lower, sometimes as low as 96.5. I have multiple cold nodules, antibodies of 2 low T3 tried Synthroid for one week but it made my anxiety unbearable.
Hey June,
Make sure to check your free T3/total T3 and reverse T3 levels on your next set of labs.
I am a breast cancer survivor of 7 years. my thyroid issue started 6 months after. I am currently on 25mcg of levothyroxine. I have no energy, weight gain is uncontrollable, hair loss and I really get no good sleep. I keep asking my gp if I should see an endocrinologist and every time I get the same answer, I have a common hypo thyroid and can be treated by your gp. please help me out.
Hey Michelle,
You probably won’t find much look seeing an endocrinologist to be honest. The first step would be to seek out a new provider that is more willing to work with you, it doesn’t make sense to stay with someone who isn’t listening to you.
I have had hypothyroid diagnossed since I’m 20…. 70 now!Nothing was done about that till about 10 years ago. Was of course put on Levothoraxine recently increased to 100 mcg. Recently diagnosed with Hashimotos. This is ridiculous, I said to myself. An endocrinologist took 2 nodules out of my thyroid 2 months ago, now wants to do another ultra-sound. The nodules were benign. Fortunately my return appointment isn’t going to be until July.
Question 1 shall I go off Levothoraxine since it isn’t really addressing the problem. If my Immune System is Attacking my thyroid why am I taking Levothoraxine? Can I just stop! My husband and I have been eating as healthy as we can for the past few months.
Thank you for taking the time to answer my Question.
Connie
Hey Connie,
Going off of thyroid medication can be dangerous so I don’t recommend doing it without physician supervision.
Dear Doctor,
Where are you based? If possible I would like to make an appointment to see you.
Kind Regards,
Yvonne Saadi
Hey Yvonne,
I am not accepting new patients at this time (and likely will not be for some time).
Doctor I am on levothyroxine 100mcg for 5 months and have flare of symptoms of and on difficult to loose weight instead I gained 10 kg after starting this medication with balanced diet and walk in also have fatty liver disease NALD and high triglycerides not diabetic or hypertensive low mood level and face chronic fatigue iron levels low esr is 40 to 50 thyroid functions are normal and testosterone level upper limits of normal range never investigated reverse t3 no antibodies to thyroid but thyroglobulin level high on supplements how can you help
Hey Nadia,
You can find more info about reducing antibodies here: https://www.restartmed.com/tpo-antibodies/
I am currently taking 150mcg of synthroid and 25mcg of lyothyoronine. I still can not loose and weight, I can loose some weight if I eat hardly anything I’m taking less than 1000 calories. So glad I found this article.
Hey Nikki,
If you are taking in less than 1,000 calories per day you also no doubt have some degree of metabolic damage. Basically your metabolism is most likely damaged to match the amount of calories you consume. Among other factors this metabolic damage is probably contributing more to your weight than anything else.
I have been taking Levothyroxine for about 4-5 years. I started to gain weight right afterward. I told my doctor and she said if anything I should be losing weight. I have tried every diet out there aND still managed to gain almost 20 pounds. I was pretty much stable before beginning the med. But my weight just kept creeping up. I reached 198 pounds and as m now going to a weight loss center. I was told it should help reset my thyroid and metabolism.
I was feeling like I was just going to have to be obese. I am so glad I found this post. My sister started at the same time with the med and she too, has gained weight. She is paralyzed from the waist down and it is very difficult for her to lift her own weight. The doctors made me feel like I was crazy to think this was happening.
Hey Edith,
While this may be a potential reason for weight gain in hypothyroid patients it’s usually a combination of other factors that cause it (not just the medication). A weight loss center that uses low calorie diets will most likely make your problem worse long term. You can read more about how that happens here: https://www.restartmed.com/biggest-loser-study/
Hello,
I currently am taking 75mcg of levothyroxine and 5mcg of liothyronine 2x a day. I still feel tired constantly, have hair loss and CANNOT lose any weight does not matter what I do, in fact I have just gained no matter what I eat or how much I exercise. I have been like this for as long as I can remember. I would LOVE some insight and help.
Hey Sarah,
You might find some of these case studies helpful: https://www.restartmed.com/victoza-weight-loss/
I need to see a naturalpathic thyroid doctor. The doctor I just got one of my daughter’s to costs $675 for the first visit which includes the hair testing and Lyme test. I needed help many years until I ended up with thyroiditis seven biopsies to rule out cancer. I have always been overweight, I am so tired. Tsh is going back up but since it’s in the normal range….3.79 I can’t get help.I had part of my thyroid removed.
Hi Cathy,
Sorry to hear about your story. You might find luck working with physicians who specialize in integrative or functional medicine.
My story is I was diagnosed hypothyroid a few years ago, tsh 8 and all the classic symptoms. I was started on 50 mcg levothyroxine and within two days my heart was racing, nose bleeds, extreme itching, anxiety, I felt crazy! My dr. Cut my dose to 25, but no relief. She switched me to a low dose NDT and I was so scared of thyroid meds that I took a 1/4 of the lowest dose and my tsh actually dropped to normal range… but over time I started feeling symptoms again and sure enough my tsh was creeping up again so I increased 1/4 dose again… continued this gradual increase for a couple years. Then this winter I needed to increase again….I went to taking 1 and 1/2 pills of the 15 mcg armour (so still a really low amount) however a month later I started having palpitations and pvc’s – cardiologist had no real answers. Endocrinologist suggested it may be the t3 that was messing with me… that I couldn’t get my t4 high enough without the t3 causing symptoms (maybe I’m a super converter, like mentioned above?). He thought maybe my reaction to Levo was bc it was a generic, so I started on synthroid 25mcg with his thought based on my blood work being I need to build up to 100mcg. Within 3 days my heart issues stopped completely which seems to reinforce his theory. My only issue now is that my weight is creeping up I’ve gained 3.5 pounds since starting 4 weeks ago and this is while being very mindful of healthy eating and I’m doing a hiit exercise program… and my fatigue is back. I don’t know if I just need to be patient as I build back up my t4 reservoir, since I’m no longer taking t3 or what. My other question is if factors that increase reverse t3 production could be so extreme to bring on the hypothyroidism in the first place. . Leading up to my diagnosis I had three babies and a miscarriage in a 5 year span.y last baby was a terrible sleeper and I literally did not sleep through the night for 2 years straight. I also dieted and worked out hard after he was born and lost 25 pounds in a 3 month span…breastfed, endured some intense viruses sweeping through the family including two e.r. Trips….extremely stressful time. Basically I could check off every reverse t3 factor on the list…. I’ve never officially been tested/diagnosed hashimotos bc my doctor said the treatment would be the same either way and that almost all thyroid disease is in fact hashimotos, so….my question is it possible for a person to present hypothyroid just from an overload of reverse t3 with no real deficiency in t4 production? My t4 and t3 have always been in range (although not optimal) even when my tsh was high. I’m just trying to solve the mystery of why although my blood tests and symptoms indicate hypothyroidism I have had such a difficult time tolerating thyroid meds- I’ve now tried levo, two different brands of NDT and now brand name synthroid …..any thoughts ?
Hi Sarah,
You might find benefit in using “cleaner” t4 medications such as tirosint: https://www.restartmed.com/tirosint/
Hi Dr. Childs,
I have a question on titration when the thyroid is not damaged or removed.
I was experiencing severe knee pain and constipation about 5 years ago so was put on 50mg Levo, weight started increasing 2 years ago along with brain fog. I finally started seeing an endo – Dr Nathan Becker based in San Fran ( Reverse T3 was a 22 at this time and Free T3 2.28). He said I should never have been put on medication since my body has got used to it but that it is too late now and I should be on meds equivalent to my now body weight about 135 pounds ( compared to 110 pounds). So I’m on 112mg Tirosint and 5 mcg T3 but as soon as I started the 112 from gradual increase 88 then 100, and started T3 I started feeling brain fog again and hair fall. Only my knee issues seem to have cleared up.
Current readings are: Free T3 6.41, TSH < 0.01, Free T4 2.10, TpOAB < 10, TgAB < 20. He didn't test for Reverse T3 even though it's been high in the past.
Should I be on T4 less than 112mg and T3?
I'm curious in cases like this if 'helping' meds are ok and recommeded or the worse option – doctors recommend shutting down your thyroid completely?
Hi Sham,
It’s often best to use a combination of symptoms + lab tests in order to find optimal dosing. It’s almost impossible for me to say what medications you would need without all of this information.
I went to the Dr in 2013 and my TSH was 4.57 They said to eat healthy and exercise. I did my Dr. left and we got a new Dr. that never told me to do anything so I started feeling worse went to the new Dr. ran my TSH again and it was 7.77 so they started me on levothyroxine 25mg and a antidepressant medicine bc they said I have PMDD. This was Aug 2016. They ran my TSH again in Oct. and my results were 3.54. I still felt tired still gaining weight it seems to be 10 pounds a year. So I called in Dec bc I wasn’t feeling any better and they up my depressant pills and levothyroxne to 50mg than about January and February I was in bed for 3 weekends in a row. Im worse Im so tired I work than go home and go to bed. My husband said something wrong call Dr and we went told DR. I cant wake up it hard for me to get out of bed I want to sleep (once my mind shuts off) I have gained more weight I have no energy …etc Had my TSH done again it a 9 and Im taking med at 50mg so now they up it to 100mg. I have appt with a Endocrinologist April. I hate this Im getting more frustrated everyday. Just starting this journey and I feel helpless.
Hey Paula,
Staying in the insurance model with thyroid problems is an exercise in frustration. Your best bet is to seek someone outside of this model for proper care.
Thank you for this website, Dr. Childs.
I am 42yo Female, had TT Aug 2016 due to PTCa. RAI was last Oct 2016. I am currently on 125mg of Levothyroxine and gaining weight rapidly. My TSH is 0.60 and FT3 is 4.21 (2.63 -5.70 range). I believe this is optimal. Before understanding T3 and Reverse T3, I thought I could finally blame it on them. But now, I do not know how to proceed. Aside from the weight gain, I feel sluggish and find it very hard to recover from fatigue. Thank for your help!
Hey Theresa,
It’s considered “normal” for post thyroidectomy patients to gain 20 pounds after their surgery, most likely due to our lack of understanding of how to replace thyroid hormone. You can learn more about losing weight after thyroidectomy here: https://www.restartmed.com/weight-loss-thyroidectomy/
I am a 48 year old female, diagnosed with Hypothyroidism September 2012, since then have gained 40 lbs. I exercise and try to eat somewhat healthy but can’t drop the weight. I track my numbers and historically my T3 Free is less than the 50% referenced range, my TSH the last two years under 2.0 (last being .07). My T4 is right around 1.20, T3 is less than 1/2 of the referenced range abd T3 Reverse is higher than 15. Currently am taking 125mcg of Levothyroxin and 20mcg of liothyronine (10mcg in AM and 10mcg in PM). Just wondering if you could review and maybe what I should be looking at. I’m wondering if it’s more a Pituitary issue verses Thyroid. Any thoughts appreciated.
I started on Synthroid in July, 1987. I lost 45 lbs the first year. That didn’t last.
My nails have always been thin and brittle. My hair has never been very full, however, over the last 6-8 months the thinning is alarming! I’m extremely cold natured, fatigued all the time. I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia in 1999, however, i had been searching for answers for about 15 years. My blood pressure is low – 116/70. I have insomnia, low back/lumbar issues. I bruise easily. Migraine headaches. Weight is not really a huge problem although I would like to lose about ten pounds. I’m 5’6″ and weigh 137.
Thank you…
Hey Linda,
You can find more info about improving your hair/nails here: https://www.restartmed.com/thyroid-hair-loss/
I have been suffering from Hypothyroidism for 9 years now. I have been taking Levothyeozine and watch what I eat but still gaining lots of weight :(.. from 134lbs to 156. My endocrinologist refuses to give me armour. I have two friends on that hormone and feel much better.
Hi Crystal,
It may be worth getting a second set of eyes to look at your case and determine if armour thyroid is worth it for you!
This is me to a “T”. My Levothyroxine has been upped to 100mcg over the past 8months, and although my Dr has me on liothyronine too, I am only taking 5mcg. This was a really great read and I’m going to see if she’ll play around with my dosages. She’s a awesome Dr, so I hope to see results from this. The weight gain has been extremely depressing
Hi Erin,
Glad you found it helpful and good luck! Keep us updated on your progress 🙂
Dear Dr. Child’s,
I had a total thyroidectomy last July 25th. It is hard for me to find information for patients without a thyroid gland. I was given Synthroid 150-125-112. My bloodwork has shown levels from next to nothing to in the mid normal range. My levels took a dramatic change after changing from 125 to 112 in Jan. However, I am now reverting back to symptoms of low energy, weight gain, hair thinning, and nervous feelings. I have requested bloodwork again from my endroccrinologist. So you think I could need the 125 dosage again? I would appreciate any ideas. I am 59
Mollie from MN
Hi Dr. Childs.
I am 55, I have been taking 50 mcg Levotyroxine because my blood test showed very low normal TSH, T3 and T4 levels. I was complaining about being very sleepy, brain fog, very dry hair and skin, gaining weight and low energy.
Despite medications I am not feeling any better and have not seen any sign of improvements. Would like to ask your advice on the matter.
Thank you.
Hi Jean,
It would be worth evaluating reverse T3 and looking for thyroid antibodies both of which may confound standard lab tests.
I had two doses of radiation to kill part of my thyroid. I am on levothyroxine and liothyronine. Have a lot of weight issues since this all started. Any suggestions
Hi Debra,
Yes! Plenty! I would recommend you start here for more information: https://www.restartmed.com/lose-weight-hypothyroidism/
Weight loss is definitely possible provided you use the right approach.
Hi Dr Childs!
I am so very happy to have found this article! I am 35 years old and have suffered with autoimmune thyroid disease for years now and i am in the hypothyroid levels ( although my weight has ranged from 115lbs-currently 133lb which isnts really overweight but is an increase), my t3 and t4 always are normal on my thyroid panel bloodwork but my TSH is underactive, most recently my TSH came back at 9.89…my medication has been increased numerous times because after a while i get what i call a “flare up” where my thyroid enlarges and i now have 4 nodules on my thyroid that are increasing in size at a moderate level, and my mcg of levothyroxine stops working and the doctor just increases it. The levothyroxine makes me feel HORRIBLE! I feel completely zapped and i have still increased in weight, it constantly is like i am spinning my wheels….i just want to feel better, feel normal, feel alive again,, i wanted to know if the above information and article is also helpful with people like myself who have hashimotos thyroid? any help or information would be so very appreciated! Thank you again for this eye opening article!
Hey Jamie,
Yes, it’s still relevant to those with Hashimoto’s.
Hi Dr. Childs,
This article has been so helpful. But, I am hoping you can help me with my question. I went to my doctor in March with very hypo symptoms. I had been on .25 mg of Levothyroxine for a long time. But, for a few months I was very, very cold (ridiculously cold), puffy face and zero energy. I was barely functioning and wanted to sleep all the time (which is not easy when you have kids). He increased my dose to .50 based on my labs.
TSH 3rd generation:4.59
T3 Free: 3.3
T4: .77
Cholesterol was also high (as usual). Total cholesterol was 318 with LDL 215, HDL 76 and Triglycerides at 78. My LDL is always high and actually had come down 20 points. C Reactive protein was .11%.
After taking the increased dosage of Levothyroxine for three weeks, my energy has improved significantly. The puffiness on my face is gone so people think I am losing weight. And, I am no longer freezing cold which is a relief. I have been taking my basal temperature and I finally hit 97.88 today.
BUT I am gaining weight — a half pound a day for the past two weeks. Nothing has changed in my diet at all. Before the increase in dosage my weight was perfect. I am 50 years old 5’5″ and weighed 124. I have gained 5 pounds + in two weeks mostly in my stomach. I feel like I am retaining fluid and feeling constipated (which were not previous symptoms). Please advise me what I can do since this is definitely an unwanted side effect. Thanks so much for your help.
Nancy
Hi Nancy,
I would recommend you start with a complete thyroid panel so you have an idea if you are on a sufficient dose for your body. This will also allow you to better understand how well (or not) you are converting T4 into T3. You can learn more here: https://www.restartmed.com/hypothyroidism/
I have Graves disease. What about methemizole? I’ve been on for about 10yrs. Up & down dosages. Monitored every 3- 6 Mo. DONT WANT TO DO SURGERY OR RADIATE THYROID. I go to Mayo clinic in Jacksonville, Florida. Any sugestions. I was impressed with your article on hypothyroidism.
Thank you.
Hi Patricia,
Methimazole will blunt thyroid function usually leading to hypothyroid symptoms if you take too much.
I had half of my thyroid removed in Sept. 2016 due to a large growth on the thyroid. Afterwards I was started on Levothyroxine. Then I had a Gastric Sleeve surgery in Feb. 2017. Immediately following the surgery I lost 20 pounds, but now I cannot lose a pound to save my life. Who should I see concerning this issue? The Bariatric surgery people are useless. Would it be better to speak to endocrinology or a naturopathic doctor?
Hi Kim,
You will have to look outside of the insurance model because you’ve basically failed the trump card procedure for weight loss. Most Doctors won’t know what to do with you now, so you will need to find someone with a completely different approach.
I’m currently on Synthroid and have been for the last 6 years. Before taking Synthroid I had perfectly clear skin now my back and neck stays broke out all the time with acne. My dermatologist has given me antibiotics and an acne spray which has helped some but I can never get rid of the acne. I have also noticed that with each increase in the Synthroid the acne gets worse. Could the Synthroid be causing my acne?
Also the past 6 years I went from a weight of 125 to 160 and diet and exercise hasn’t helped any.
Not to mention my hair was falling out like crazy, that has stopped some but it’s not growing back.
Any ideas or suggestions?
Hi Amber,
You might find these posts helpful: https://www.restartmed.com/thyroid-hair-loss/
https://www.restartmed.com/hypothyroidism-acne/
Hi
Levothyroxine caused me to gain 50 lbs and has not helped my Hashimotos one bit. I Still have “all” the symptoms ( goiter) and struggle through everyday in a fog, praying for a little energy. I just had to go off of levothyroxine temporarily because of a rash reaction that could possibly be the fillers!? My Thyroperox Ab is 628 IU/ml and my T4 Free is 1.14 ng/dl and TSH is 1.97 mcIU / ml. I’ve been to four Endocrinologist Doctors – they all tell me that Levothyroxine doesn’t cause weight gain and my T4 and TSH is in the normal range so they dismiss me. They dismissed for years before I was diagnosed with Hashimotos because of ” the normal range”. I could have worked on this earlier before Hashimotis if someone ( Dr ) believed me. Selenium and Vit. D isn’t working either. I used to feel somewhat normal, ran my own business, and was athletic. Lately, I can’t get to my business before noon it takes me hours to wake up and have enough energy / focus to get going. I feel like a scatterbrained slug, the weight is now causing back and knee issues. Exercise is so hard to do now. I’m so embarrassed for my husband to see my body now and my sex drive doesn’t exist! My poor husband is supportive but feels it’s him – but it’s “me” not him. I’m feeling terrible, tired, achy and sex is never on my mind. Now, I’m at risk for diabetes too – keeps going up even though I eat better. I honestly eat well – following Hashimotos guidelines. Am I really supposed to believe that I can’t do anything to improve the way I feel. This T3 and T4 together sounds like it’s the right solution for me but why won’t any Doctors help me! They won’t even let me try T3. Please help! Am I wrong to want to try this and is there a Dr. In New Hampshire willing to try and help me. Are T3 treatments dangerous – why can’t I try to see if it helps? Is this the direction I need to go? I’m want to feel better! Thanks for any input you may have? Shawna
Hi Shawna,
If used correctly T3 medications are not dangerous but they certainly don’t work for everyone. The first place to start is with a complete thyroid panel so you can help determine if they would be beneficial for your body.
I would also check out this post about T3 medications which is a great place to start: https://www.restartmed.com/liothyronine/
enjoyed listening to your article on the “actual” explanation of how T4 and T3 work, I have been on Levothyroxine for approx. 10 years, my doctor never explained anything about it and has me on the lowest dose 25mg, my numbers are in the right area on blood tests, but I can not lose weight and recently entered menopause and gained more weight. I also struggle with low energy often. I am going to try the checking my temperature and heart rate suggestion as well as talk to my Doctor about the supplements you suggested if I stay on Levothyroxine or asking them about possibly switching to the Natural Dessicated Thyroid like you suggested. If my Doctor does not seem to concerned I will be finding another Doctor.
Thanks
Hi Linda,
I think that’s a great place to start! I always say that life is too short to waste living several years in a perpetual state of fatigue, etc. Spend the time and energy necessary to find a new doctor if that’s what it takes! Good luck and keep us updated.
I was finally diagnosed with Hashimotos a year ago April and have had hypothyroidism for 9 years now. I am on 112 synthroid with 10 mg of Cytomel.before being on dose of 112 could not lose additional 15lbs that was packed on my small frame and being 5’3. i have been on this dose for 2 years and finally lost weight and kept it off for those two years. nothing has changed with diet or exercise and now am slowly putting on weight again . 6 lbs in the last month.
Hi Martha,
Make sure to recheck your thyroid! The amount of thyroid hormone you need does change over time based on the demand you put on it. So a dose that worked for you previously may not work today.
I am hypothyroid for 10 years. I did very well on levothyeoxine until after my 4th child 3 years ago. I see an endocrinologist and he ran a “full” panal and dayd my numbers are fine. I workout to circuit training and cardio 60+ min a day 6 days a week, I have gained 5 or so poinds in the last yr. And I have other hypo symptoms. My dr. Days if I had a magic weight loss pill I could make a lot of people happy. I eat clean and count calories. What can I do?
Hi Noel,
You can find my weight loss recommendations in this guide: https://www.restartmed.com/hormone-mastery/
I have Hashimoto and Hypothyroid along with Vitilago for over 26 years now. It’s a constant struggle to lose my weight. I was on T3 only only for 7 months and Tsh tested at 128 twice – Dr and others were not sure as to why my Tsh went to that – any idea? Since then I’ve switched to Ndt and t3 and Tsh is now 0.01. Conventional dr say I’m getting too much thyroid hormone but I know I’m on an optimal dosage for me! I just don’t understand why I can gain weight so easily but losing it takes forever and it’s difficult as well. When ever I have supplemented with Zinc a few times now I feel sick within minutes – not sure if it’s the wrong type or perhaps my body doesn’t need it? I know I have swelling through my body and that’s a struggle too sadly! Any suggestions please? I would love to work with you if that is possible – what services do you offer? Thanks
Hi Heather,
Hashimoto’s antibodies can cause issues outside of their influence on your thyroid which may be the cause of some of your issues. You might also have luck in supplementing with selenium over zinc (or smaller doses of zinc).
Hi I’ve just started taking 50mg of levothyeoxine
I have many other health issues. I have inflammatory arthritis and fibromyalgia and lots of medication
Lansaprozole salfasalizine folic acid vit d. Methotrexate and simponi injection.
I would like to know if by taking the thyroid mess it will help with my weight loss and enable me yo get around better as I’m am struggling to walk far. I have pain everywhere and overweight
Please give me any advise
Hi Jackie,
I would look into this article regarding the connection between chronic pain and hypothyroidism: https://www.restartmed.com/hypothyroidism-chronic-pain/
Hello, I would like to print off this article so I can give it to my doctor. Is there a copy I can print without printing 116 pages?
Hi Kim,
Unfortunately I don’t have a way to minimize the article for printing but I’m sure some programs out there exist to do the heavy lifting for you.
I have been on Levothyroxine for years and my symptoms have not gotten any better – most of them have not gotten worse, mind you – at least I don’t think so (you might want to check with my husband on some of them eh?) Weight gain has recently become a bigger issue – steady increase that has now gotten to the point that it is reducing my ability to do the things that I have always loved to do. “Brain fog” also seems to be a bigger issue now. I am scheduled for a Dr appointment in a little over a month – I have requested the tests that you mentioned – let’s see if they actually test them. Good to have some tools in my belt that I can do on my own in the mean time. Thank you so much for this information!!
Hi Debra,
No problem and I hope it helps. Keep us updated.
Dear Dr. Childs,
Thank you for all the information you publish. I would like to start your lifestyle plan ($97). However, as I live in the UK, my doctors will only prescribe levothyroxine to treat hypothyroidism.
My questions to you would be, firstly, is there any way at all to stop feeling tired and lose weight on this medication? Secondly, would it be a poor idea to invest in your programme if my T4 only protocol is going to be holding me back and thwarting my efforts?
With regards to tiredness, I should mention that my ferritin is also low at 18 (an endocrinologist has recommended it should be 100) so this could be causing the fatigue. (I’m currently working to get this up by taking Floradix and eating ox liver [I’m a vegetarian of 20 years, and it feels awful on every level, taste, texture and ethically. I feel like Hannibal Lecter! 🙂 )
Just to give you some further information, two years ago I got down to 9 stone 3 pounds (Eat to Live diet and DDP Yoga [isometric training]) kept it off for two months, and then it all came back. I’ve been at 11 stone 5 pounds since and nothing seems to budge it.
Many thanks for all your help,
Best wishes,
Elizabeth
Hi Elizabeth,
Great questions!
The weight loss program is meant to be used without physician supervision or the need for medications. Certain medications can be used however if you have a physician willing to work with you so that’s why that information is included. But it’s not required for results. The information on medications, etc. is also information not available on the blog so it’s very helpful for people in general as well.
Hope this helps!
Thank you so much for writing this article! I have been taking Synthroid 100mg for 18 months now and have noticed weight gain around my midsection, and it seems like my metabolism is stuck, Weight isn’t coming off! I wasn’t clinically Hypothyroid to begin with,my TSH was 3.7, now it’s 1.36….I am trying to conceive, so this is why I was prescribed medicine.
I just added 5mcg of Cytomel and have gone down to 75 of Synthroid
I’m going to try that and a Paleo diet and hope the weight comes off, otherwise I may just get off medication altogether, what are your thoughts?
Thanks!
Jackie
Hi Jackqueline,
I think starting with a paleo-esque type of diet is a good starting point.
So, how can you tell when converting the dose form t4 only (Levoxyl) to either a combo or a T3 only? After 3 subsequent pregnancies at age 40, my hypothyroid symptoms are back and bc of my totally suppressed TSH (like o.037), my doctors keep trying to lower my dose (happened in pregnancy, too). I started at 75 but now up to 125 with hypo symptoms and totally unable to lose even a lb. of the 30 lbs leftover from the pregnancies. Trying for another, so want to get the weight off first to avoid gestational diabetes.
Anyways- I’m educated about the rest as have been through it all before and had to figure it out for myself. So am on top of insulin & lepton resistance… v careful w/ diet and nutrition, etc. but also thinking my adrenals are cooked (had v high risk pregnancies that resulted in a miscarriage, a full term stillbirth, and finally a healthy baby girl; and now months of sleepless nights w new baby). I can probably get my Dr. To try a T3 medication or combo if I can just make his life easy and suggest the medication and dose… how do I conver it from 125 mcg of Levoxyl…? Thanks
Hi Sarah,
There isn’t a conversion process when it comes to T3. T3 dosing varies wildly from person to person based on several factors.
Dear Dr Child:
My T3 seems in the 50% range at 100 but TSH is low at 0.03 and T4 is high at 13.2
My resting heart rate is in the 90s (monitored on my fitbit) but my BM temperature is between 94 and 95 and i am always feeling cold – based on your article I am unclear on whether the reverse T3 issue applies to me or not -could you kindly hlep
Hi Priya,
This article only serves as basic information and can’t be applied to every single scenario, for this reason I always recommend a complete evaluation by a knowledgable physician.
Hello Dr.Childs,here are my numbers from lab tests
Thyroglobulin antibody 3.7
Tpo ab 110
Tsh: 5.38
T4:8.2
T3 free: 2.6
I was put on 25 mcg levothyroxine. I was wondering if I really need to use the medicine now as I dont want to deal with the side effects.Can I control by good diet and exercise ?
I already feel better except ocassional tingling in my legs and feel a little cold at night.Thyroid ultrasound was also normal.
Hi Lusky,
Fixing your issue will require more than just diet and exercise, but that is certainly a good place to start.
Hello Dr Westin, I spent hours reading through all the post and the info you provide is awesome. I am 48 year old female 10 years post pituitary adenoma surgery. Tumor removed because produced Too much growth hormone. I am a Veteran so my treatment comes from the VA. My VA endo tells me that my tsh can never be used because of the pituitary issue so we have been playing with dose from 75 to 112. Since I am limited financially from seeing multiple Dr or getting medicines out side of the VA What would you recommend on the natural side to get T3 supplements if any exist? Thanks again for the help.
Hi Dottie,
You can find more information on how to increase free T3 levels here: https://www.restartmed.com/increase-free-t3-naturally/
Hey Dr Child’s,
On 1.5 grains of Nature-Throid, my T3,T4,fT4, and fT3 are all near the low end of the normal range. My rT3 is mid-range, but has been coming down. My TSH is close to zero.
On 2 grains, my numbers move up just above mid-range. But my TSH is zero. At that dose, I have no hypothyroid symptoms. Nor hyper.
My remaining problem, however, is my body’s got hair-trigger responses to chemical exposure and allergies.
All the local endo cares about is my low TSH. So I’m going to see a medical geneticist with my variants in the hope that he knows that central hypothyroidism isn’t usually isolated.
I was on Synthroid for some time. I had Meniere’s and episodes of tachycardia while on it even though it didn’t help my Hypothyroidism.
It would be nice to get this all straightened out.
Hi Lianne,
Thanks for sharing your story! If you have a specific question please let me know and I can probably direct you further 🙂