Recent Free T4 test result

[Wilyjo]

My latest result has a reading of 12.1 pmol/L.

In Jan of this year it was 15.6.

I'm anticipating being told that I don't need to increase my dose of 50mg tablets whereas I feel I'm flagging again.

Any advice?

Thank you.

[Marz]

Hi - it would be helpful to have the range of the FT4 result - although it does look low. FT3 is a more informative result although rarely tested.

When were you diagnosed and how long have you been on 50 mcg ? Do you have Hashimotos ? Important to have optimal levels of B12 - Folate - Ferritin - VitD. Are you supplementing or taking any other medication ?

[Wilyjo in reply to Marz]

Ref range is 12-20. and I agree re full results needed but this was what was done. All those other tests were done and none were low. Have asked to discuss with GP.

[Marz in reply to Wilyjo]

OK so they were not low - do you have the results to post ? Are you supplementing ? Any other meds ?

[Jaydee1507 Administrator]

Full results are needed - TSH, T4 and T3. Also results for vitamins - ferritin, folate, B12 and D3. Resualts also need a reference range, otherwise its just a number. Ranges vary from lab to lab.

[Wilyjo in reply to Jaydee1507]

Ref range is 12-20. and I agree re full results needed but this was what was done. All those other tests were done and none were low. Have asked to discuss with GP.

[SlowDragon Administrator]

Welcome to the forum

How long have you been left on only the standard starter dose of levothyroxine?

Dose of levothyroxine should be increased slowly upwards in 25mcg steps until Ft3 is at least 50-60% through range and usually Ft4 will be towards the top of range

Request 25mcg dose increase in levothyroxine

Also request vitamin D, folate, ferritin and B12 plus thyroid antibodies are tested now (or at next test) if not been tested yet/recently

Are you currently taking any vitamin supplements

Bloods should be retested 6-8 weeks after each dose change or brand change in levothyroxine

Which brand of levothyroxine are you currently taking

ALWAYS test thyroid levels early morning, ideally just before 9am and last dose levothyroxine 24 hours before test

Likely to need further increase in levothyroxine after next test

Approx how much do you weigh in kilo