Blood test frequency?

[Chi68]

Hi, can I ask how often blood should be tested?

I was on carbimazole 20mg for 5 weeks, developed an itch and urticaria so was told by GP to stop it. TSH and T4 were tested and T4 had come down but was still above range. After 2 weeks with no treatment I was prescribed PTU 200mg a day. I’ve been on it for 3 weeks now. Phoned my surgery today to order more as what I have left will run out between Christmas and New Year and asked when I need to get my next blood test. Receptionist told me there’s no notes on my record to have a blood test so would not make an appointment for a test in 3 weeks time. I’m sure I was told at the beginning of this that I would need blood tests every 6 weeks until stable? Should I insist on getting a blood test in 3 weeks?

[PurpleNails Administrator]

6 weekly until stable is standard. Once the levels appear to remain stable and do not require adjustments each time they often extend it. If you develop worsening symptoms then it’s always important to discuss with doctor.

Testing more frequently may not have additional benefit as the level tested won’t reflect how it settle. This would mean more adjustments to medication could possibly worsen symptoms than letting things settle.