Is a thyroid support supplement useful when taking levo?

[Caroline888]

Hello again! I've been wondering if it's ok to take a thyroid support supplement alongside levothyroxine. Have seen one of two different ones on Amazon. I am currently taking 37.5 mcg of levothyroxine but am due for a blood test next week when I will most likely need an increase. If it's considered ok to take a thyroid supplement, can anyone recommend one specifically.

Thank you for all your help so far - without this site i would be totally at a loss. As you all know, it's so very difficult to feel confident that you are going to feel better ever, when gps have absolutely no idea and think we're just wasting their time. My gp thinks a tsh of 5.4 is ok because the top of the range the lab uses is 5.5! Goodness knows what he will say if it's lower when I receive next week's results.

With thanks again for your support.

Caroline

[Clutter]

Caroline888,

You shouldn't need a thyroid supplement in addition to Levothyroxine if you are optimally dosed. You are undermedicated to have TSH at the top of range. You should ask for a dose increase.

The goal of Levothyroxine is to restore the patient to euthyroid status. For most patients that will be when TSH is 0.3 - 1.0 with FT4 in the upper range. FT4 needs to be in the upper range in order that sufficient T3 is converted. Read Treatment Options in thyroiduk.org.uk/tuk/about_... Email [e-mail] if you would like a copy of the Pulse article to show your GP.

If your GP won't increase dose see another GP or change GP practice.

[Caroline888 in reply to Clutter]

Thank you, Clutter, for answering my question so quickly. I suppose I'm anxious to be doing something else to help myself but will do as you say. I think I can persuade my gp to increase my dose but if not will certainly see another doctor at the surgery in the hope of better treatment. Thanks so much for your advice.

Caroline