Introducing NDT regime

[cwill]

Hello again. I now have a private prescription for NDT and it is on order. Currently on 100mg levothyroxin and have posted recent results on here so pretty much all set. I have a thermometer and blood pressure monitor that I have been using to ensure that I know my baseline readings before the switch. My doctor suggested I start at 1/2 grain and I understand that I should increase in 1/4 grain increments every two weeks. Are there any exceptions to this regime bar my reaction to the initial dose? It seems like a huge leap into the unknown. Currently bed-based with CFS/ME and dependent on carers so don't have much wiggle room with my symptoms but starting the experiment with hope.

[Clutter]

Cwill,

1 grain is equivalent to 75-100mcg. I would start at 1 grain split into 2 doses and increase in 1/4 grain increments at 2 week intervals until symptoms resolve or you are taking 2 grains. Hold for 6 weeks and have a FT3 test before increasing further.

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I am not a medical professional and this information is not intended to be a substitute for medical guidance from your own doctor. Please check with your personal physician before applying any of these suggestions.

[cwill in reply to Clutter]

That sounds more sensible to me - wasn't sure why my doctor advised 1/2 gain but I think that caution is a bit overdone for those of us that have been medicated for years. Thanks.

[cwill in reply to cwill]

Clutter I realise that I can't remember the advice for NDT: is it on an empty stomach as T4, so at 5am and 5 pm for example?

[SlowDragon Administrator]

I see you have raised antibodies, so have Hashimoto's. Have you tried, or are you currently on gluten free diet?

[cwill in reply to SlowDragon]

Yep for over 8 years and very strict. Doing AIP at present. I found that I couldn't reintroduce anything but am antibiotics at present for gut infection - possibly been there for the whole time or more too. I'm hoping that this is the beginning of the end of the long haul.