DIO2 and T4

[Ashanat]

Hi all,

I’ve been searching all over and not found a clear answer, but hoping you lovely lot can help!

My query is, if someone has the DIO2 issue from either one or both parents, is it even worth taking T4?

Many thanks for any insights 😁

[SlowDragon Administrator]

Yes, most of us have been on Levothyroxine for years, or decades

Majority only need the addition of small dose of T3 alongside Levothyroxine

[FancyPants54 in reply to SlowDragon]

Interesting SlowDragon. When you say a "small" addition of T3 alongside T4, what sort of dose size of T3 do you mean? And if it's small, why do you think it helps? Does it help the body to convert the T4 more effectively?

[SlowDragon Administrator in reply to FancyPants54]

If we have DIO2 gene variation it's only the brain needs a better supply of T3

"To explain this paper briefly, the DIO2 gene activates tri-iodothyronine (T3) and the researchers found that a tiny fault in this gene could mean that although the body gets enough T3, the brain doesn’t."

The difference for myself between just Levothyroxine and the addition initially of 2 x 5mcg T3 was quite astonishing.

Following blood tests after 6 weeks, and positive Heterozygous DIO2 test, T3 dose was increase to 1 x 10mcg and 2 x 5mcg. T3 doses are 8 hours apart. 7am, 3pm and 11pm

[NWA6]

I’m thinking yes because whilst our bodies do still convert then isn’t that better than everything being synthetic? I’ve got the faulty gene from one parent so I do convert but all of my FT3 results are only just on the lowest of the range ( I’ve only ever had 3 FT3 tests in the 10yrs so not exactly a comprehensive analogy). The result does help me with my history though. I’ve always asked for a blood test about every 6mths to a year because after I initially feel good with a raise, it’s potency then seems to fade. My GPs think I’m mad to always ask for an increase when my tests are in range. Up until last year they let me increase after an argument. But now at 175mcg they’re saying no and won’t budge 😩