PCOS Message Board - View Single Post

shenacat · 07-26-2004, 09:30 PM

I was started directly on armour, dessicated pig thyroid which contains all thyroid hormones and not just T4 which synthroid and levoxyl, unithroid etc contain. T4 is slow acting because your body has to convert it to T3 before it is useful. So, it takes weeks for changes in meds to take effect etc. I like the quick-acting T3 component in armour because I can see changes right away.

I have noticed that my thyroid fluctuates with my menstrual cycle so I take a little more armour after I ovulate and drop it back down again after I start my period. This works because the T3 kicks in right away. It wouldn't work with just T4.

Some people's bodies don't convert T4->T3 very well, either. So T3 can really be a lifesaver and nip those final nasty symptoms in the butt.

T4 only does work great for many people, but the option for T3 or a natural mixed drug should always be available if T4 only doesn't work best.

Ask your doctor if (s)he would be comfortable prescribing you natural thyroid or some T3 along with your T4 and see what (s)he says. A lot of dr's won't prescribe T3 because they think it's unnecessary (same dr's think that TSH of 5 is ok!). Feel your dr. out so you know whether or not you have breathing room if T4 only doesn't work for you. Also ask your dr. what TSH (s)he wants you to have - 0.5-1.5 is optimal. If (s)he says you'd be fine at 3 or should be fine now, state your concerns over that and see if you can work with the doc anyway - sometimes they see reason and are able to change their thinking to help you. If not, it may be worthwhile to find a new doctor.