Levothyroxine

[Lyndabutt]

I have been taking Levothyroxine for many years with problems until last week when my GP advised a higher dose.Since then my RLS has been terrible.Any advice welcomed.

[ChrisColumbus]

There have been reports that levothyroxine exacerbates RLS symptoms, but others have said not. Most people have referred to taking 100 µg, but I note that the British National Formulary talks about doses up to 200 µg?

At least one person has said it's fine if they take it in the morning, but problematic if taken in the evening. The BNF recommends that it's taken 30-60 minutes before breakfast, so you are probably taking it then anyway?

[Joolsg]

ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articl...

Those with thyroid disease have a higher risk of also having RLS.

There is also a hypothesis that low iron can worsen Thyroid disease.

I suggest you get full panel iron blood tests and raise your serum ferritin above 100ųg, preferably 200ųg. It may settle the sudden worsening RLS, without adding further meds.

[Lyndabutt in reply to Joolsg]

yes I will do that.my Iron is a bit low even though I take 2 tablets of gentle fe every other night.Thank you for replying

[SueJohnson]

Have you started any OTC medicines?

Have you changed the timing of anything you take?

Have you made any other changes like any of the following: some things that can make RLS symptoms worse for some people are alcohol, nicotine, caffeine, sugar, artificial sweeteners, carbs, foods high in sodium(salt), foods that cause inflammation, ice cream, eating late at night, oestrogen (estrogen) including HRT, dehydration, MSG, collagen supplements, electrolyte imbalance, melatonin, stress and vigorous exercise.

Have you stopped any of the following: Some things that help some people include caffeine, moderate exercise, weighted blankets, compression socks, elastic bandages, masturbation, magnesium glycinate, fennel, low oxalate diet, selenium, 5 minute shower alternating 20 seconds cold water with 10 seconds hot water finishing with hot water for another couple of minutes, hot baths, distractions, CBD, applying a topical magnesium lotion or spray, doing a magnesium salts soak, vitamins B1, B3, B6, B12, D3, K2, if deficient, and potassium and copper if deficient, massage including using a massage gun, vibration devices like therapulse, using a standing desk, listening to music, meditation and yoga.

I realize all of the above don't apply but thought I would include them anyway for your general interest.

[Lyndabutt in reply to SueJohnson]

Hi Sue The only change is the increased dose of Levothyroxine.I am sure that is the cause of this exacerbation.Thank you for all your advice

[DesertOasis in reply to Lyndabutt]

Lynda, please see RKM7’s advice in attached post. healthunlocked.com/rlsuk/po...

[Lyndabutt in reply to DesertOasis]

I do take it in the morning.Thank you for replying

[DesertOasis in reply to Lyndabutt]

RKM7 also swore by ferrous bisglycinate taken on an empty stomach about two hours before bed. She started out with every other night but switched to every night when she realized she felt better on nights when iron was taken. Ferrous Sulfate or slow release is a waste of time, in my humble opinion.

[SueJohnson in reply to DesertOasis]

Thank you.