Making the change: Having been on Levo for ten... - Thyroid UK

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Making the change

Marmie profile image
4 Replies

Having been on Levo for ten years and feeling OK I am wondering whether to make the change to NDT. I am well enough in myself having had carpal tunnel op, stopped anti-depressants, and finished with heavy periods. GP only tests for TSH and after every blood test, Levo amount changes 100-150.

Only take adrenal supplement (following private test) but no other supplements. Only health issue is weight gain/slight tiredness. Is there any need for me to make the change or take supplements. After reading other peoples problems feel slight concern about not looking after my bodies needs?

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Marmie profile image
Marmie
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shaws profile image
shawsAdministrator

This is a scientific article. Don't be put off by the title, all it means is that we are usually not given sufficient medication to get well and that we are usually on too low a dose of thyroid hormones to do so. Rather being on T4 alone, he recommends T4/T3, or NDT.

web.archive.org/web/2012081...

Neither should doctors adjust hormones according to the TSH. There are other topics at the top of the page of the link below. Read the first two questions in particular on the link below.

web.archive.org/web/2010103...

Marmie profile image
Marmie in reply to shaws

Thank you

Clutter profile image
Clutter

Marmie, I don't know whether NDT would suit you or not, but your GP dosing according to your TSH isn't at all helpful. TSH just above or below 1.0 is comfortable for most people but some need it lower, or even suppressed to feel well. What is your TSH and what dose are you on now?

It might be worth ordering a private FT3 and FT4 test from Blue Horizon or Genova to see what your levels are. If your TSH is around 1.0, your FT4 high in range but your FT3 low then T4+T3 or NDT may be beneficial.

If ferritin, vitamin D, B12 and folate are good in range there is no need to supplement. If you don't know, ask your GP to test them as hypothyroid patients are often deficient/low and these deficiencies can cause musculoskeletal pain, fatigue and low mood similar to hypothyroid symptoms. Post your results with the lab ref ranges (the figures in brackets after your results) in a new question and members will advise whether supplementation is required.

Marmie profile image
Marmie in reply to Clutter

Thank you

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