Which meds , Levo or T3

[Porridges1]

Hello forum users

For the past year (in particular) I have had symptoms of hypo thyroidism , brain fog , low mood , achy bones . Am at menopause age too . A blood test results are a high TSH of 6.5 /T4 13.8 /TPO 257. I appreciate that we do not always go by the TSH result

My question is, does levothyroxine work?

Or should you be taking T3 ?

Thank you

[helvella Administrator]

It would be extremely unusual for anyone to start treatment with liothyronine (LT3).

The usual process is to start with levothyroxine (LT4) and increment doses as appropriate. Then, if and only if needed, consider LT3.

It is possible that in some countries (e.g. USA) desiccated thyroid might sometimes, and for some people, be considered from the start.

However, you have not indicated your country (in your profile) so I have no idea what would be feasible for you.

Levothyroxine works at least quite well for an enormous number of people.

[Jazzw]

It’s my belief that most people with hypothyroidism manage on levothyroxine alone just fine as long as they’re on a sufficient dosage, i.e., a dosage that relieve symptoms and doesn’t only put the patient’s blood test results back into “normal range”. Problems very quickly arise when doctors treat by numbers alone.

I’m not sure why you’re asking. Are you untreated?

[Buddy195 Administrator]

If prescribed at an adequate dose to alleviate symptoms, Levothyroxine works effectively for most people with hypothyroidism. I would certainly try this as the first form of treatment. Have you been prescribed Levo yet? If so, what dose?

Having optimal key thyroid vitamins is so important- have you tested ferritin, folate, B12 and vit D?

[Porridges1 in reply to Buddy195]

Thanks for your reply . Not currently on Meds for hypo . Had tests in July for thyroid vits and all seem within nhs guidelines.

Just know that can no longer carry on with the brain fog and fatigue and will look at the meds and may get private test for T3 levels

[healthkiwi in reply to Porridges1]

Best to start with NHS / GP, and with Levo. At least 80% of hypothyroid patients do well on Levo only WHEN ON CORRECT DOSE (which may take time and tweaking to get to.) Many of us here have had to go other routes, and take it from me, it can be a long series of buggerations - worry about supply issues, expense, private testings, cross words with medics. If you CAN get prescribed Levo and it suits you, so much easier.

Your initial TSH reading was over normal range so would justify another blood test now, and if still over range, you can ask GP for "trial" of Levo because you are "symptomatic". Write a list of all your symptoms, and describe how your life is affected - what you can't do now. And follow the instructions given here: get an early morning test BEFORE 9.00 a.m. , do not have any breakfast or any drink other than water - no coffee or tea before test.

[Porridges1 in reply to healthkiwi]

Thank you

[Buddy195 Administrator]

Do share vitamin results with us (perhaps in a new post to alert more members) as ‘within range’ may not be the same as optimal.