Follow up test results 2 months after starting Levothyroxine

[Debslee]

I was prescribed 50mg Levothyroxine 9 weeks ago after successfully persuading my GP to start a trail based on the following results taken at the surgery:

Serum free T4 level 11.2 pmol/L [11.0 - 23.0]

Serum TSH level 5.4 mU/L [0.27 - 4.5

Free T3 not tested

I had also had my own medicheck tests done at the same time :

TSH 10.2 (0.27-4.2)

Free T3 3.53 (3.1-6.8)

Free Thyroxine 11.8 (12 - 22)

My GP requested that i have bloods done again after 8 weeks as the dose may need "tweaking" and these results just came back today:

Serum free T4 level 11.9 pmol/L [11.0 - 23.0]

Serum TSH level 2.1 mU/L [0.27 - 4.5

Free T3 not tested

Ive also had vitamins tested ( privately) as I was previously deficient in VitD and B Folate - these are now within the range recommended by Seasidesusie in her response to my previous post

I am able to log online with my surgery & view my Blood results and note that a Dr ( not the same GP that diagnosed me) has left a message to say the latest results are satisfactory and no further action is required.

I appreciate that the TSH is now (only just) within the NICE "optimal range" but Free T4 is still low in range. I feel so much better but my symptoms are not totally alleviated. I wondered if someone could advise on next steps please i.e. should I accept that i'm in the optimal range and continue with the 50mg Levo or should I discuss Free T4 result with GP and/or get private T3 test done

many thanks in anticipation , your support and advice on here has been a god send so far

Debs

[Lalatoot]

50mcg is a starter dose. Once treated with levo we expect to see the TSH down to 1 or below if we are on an adequate dose. As your FT4 is low I would be looking for an increase.

Don't waste your money on getting only FT3 tested. The results only mean something if you have FT4 and TSH done at the same time. Better to wait until you have been on an increased dose for 6 - 8 weeks.

Discuss with your GP and ask an increase. Reason for increase is FT4 is low in range and you are still symptomatic. TSH is 'normal' as he might say - but it is not necessarily optimal for you - it would also be considered 'normal' at 0.27.

[Debslee in reply to Lalatoot]

Thanks both very much for your replies - I have had my dose increased to 75mg now.

When. I got my new meds home I noticed I’d been given Teva .

Since taking I don’t feel too good - headache, upset tummy, and back ache . Is it possible that these are side effects or is it too soon.?

I had my flu jab last weekend so could be that or maybe just adjusting to new meds

Not sure how long to leave it ?

Thank you

[silverfox7]

Stick with the doctor who diagnosed you as well. He seems to be better clued up. If you look on the Thyroid Uk site-they run this forum, you will also find other things that will help your progress.