I recently had a Regenerus saliva test for adrenal function. DHEA normal (31% through range) but cortisol levels all pretty low. I’m supposed to have a second endo consultation in August (the first one was by phone) but don’t want to wait that long so am trying Adrenavive 1, before breakfast and at noon only. Some mornings I feel rough on waking up and am much more tired most of the day, with some improvement by evening. My Levo has been at the same dose since February (125/150mcg alternate days).
Questions:
• How long before and after food and other medications/supplements should Adrenavive be taken?
•How long before I’m likely to notice any improvement? Should the amount be increased (for example to 2 capsules in the morning) if no improvement, and how soon?
•In Dr Peatfield’s book “Your Thyroid and How to Keep it Healthy” he advises stopping thyroid medication for several days before taking adrenal medication/supplements, as poor adrenal function prevents thyroid hormone being used properly and can (he says) lead to T4 toxicosis. My last FT4 test was normal and I’m nervous of trying that. Do you think it is necessary?
If you have a n appointment with an Endo in August, I wouldn't take any supplements as they will mess up any testing that he might do meaning that you won't get an accurate diagnosis & could miss out on vital treatment.
• in reply to
The endo said he would book an appointment in August, but with the coronavirus who knows!
I can't help with your query but I am trying to find out which test to order to check for Addisons. I looked at the Regenerus site but there are so many different ones I don't know what to go for. Which did you do? I'm not very good at finding my way round this site either and can't see where to start a new post.
The cheapest (if you can call it that) was the saliva test I had, costs £83 plus carrier fees. But worth it for the peace of mind of knowing what's going on. You take 4 saliva samples in a day, 30 minutes after waking, at noon, before lunch, before supper and at bedtime. You mustn't take anything containing caffeine (tea, coffee, chocolate etc - including in my case migraine tablets) or any fruit or fruit juice. Each sample has to be put in the freezer immediately.
It tests cortisol and DHEA.
But the doctor couldn't accept it as evidence, apparently not allowed because it's from an outside agency (thought I was saving the NHS time and money!) and I'm waiting for a call back and probably another test, though apparently they don't usually do a saliva test.
Regenerus HOR05 Adrenal Function Saliva Test £83 - order with ThyroidUK as your "practioner" and a donation is made to ThyroidUK. Details on how to order (scroll down):
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