Subclinical Hypothyroidism, Levothyroxine, Hashimotos

[Neesie_227]

Hi! My doctor just put me on Levothyroxine for subclinical hypothyroidism. I've known for years that I have Hashimotos, but my thyroid labs have always been in the normal range, so it's been a watch and wait approach. My TSH was only slightly above the normal range (I think around 5.5) and T3 and T4 were normal. He started me on Levothyroxine .025 mcg, which I took first thing in the morning. The next morning, between 2 and 6 am, I kept getting jolted awake by an adrenaline like feeling. I attributed it to the Levothyroxine, because I never have this problem. I cut the pill in half the next day, and I was still jolted awake the following early morning with the adrenaline feeling. I want to feel better, but I'm scared this is is a reaction to the medication. Should I even be on it since my labs were so close to normal? I do have the typical hypo symptoms (no energy, I can sleep all the time, constipation, forgetfulness, low heart rate around 68- but this is only when I'm sleeping- otherwise, my heart rate is around 85 to 105). Any input is greatly appreciated!

[Gambit62]

suggest you post on TUK

healthunlocked.com/thyroiduk

Think you mean 25mcg as the dose - this is a low, starter dose and as such some people don't feel good on it. Speak to your GP before changing the dose you are taking though - halving the dose is unlikely to make any difference.

[Neesie_227 in reply to Gambit62]

Thank you. Yes, I meant 25 mcg

[Mariapalmer]

My mum had to take taking levo a while back it will take a while to feel ok whilst taking it

[Bunny2020]

Yes it is your thyroid....but don't stop taking the medicine...you can try taking half of it for a few weeks and then go up to the full dose.....I have had thyroid disease for 40 years....I am an expert on this subject..I have studied extensively and know more than any endocrinologist...so I laugh at my PCP when she wants to send me to a ENDO.....anyway get the book STOP THE THYROID MADNESS.....sold on amazon and ebay etc....read that and then read ADRENAL FATIGUE by Dr. WILSON.....these two books are excellent resources...also tell the PHARMACIST you only want BRAND NAME synthroid and not GENERIC ..there are a lot of issues with the GENERIC thyroid meds.....and finally clean up your diet .....NO caffeine , no chocolate ever.., NO GOITROGENS....they are Broccoli, Cauliflower, etc etc..look them up......also NO PENUT anything,...and NO SOY EVER.....and no ALMOND ANYTHING.....all of those things slow down your thyroid......the night time attacks which I have too...are caused by the adrenal glands trying to compensate for the weak thyroid.......I hope this helps if you want more info email me privately

[Neesie_227 in reply to Bunny2020]

Thank you so much!! I was wondering about brand vs generic. I will definitely tell my pharmacist.