Had anyone else had their thyroxine increased how long did it take before and effects were felt ?

[bennion666568]

[Flutegal]

I think it depends how ill you were to begin with - how high the TSH was and how low the free T4 was when they diagnosed you. For me my endo said it would be at least 9 months after my bloods got in range. Its been about 10 months and I feel OK 'most' of the time, as long as I dont do much!

[bennion666568 in reply to Flutegal]

I have been quite ill for 5 yrs but hypothyroid since 16 yrs. I was diagnosed with M.E 4 yrs ago but I wasn't in agreement . I eventually had enough and made an appointment to see Dr Skinner . I saw him two days ago he said the only thing wrong with me is that i am still hypothyroid and has increased my thyroxine from 50mcg levothyroxine and 20 T3 to 100 mcg Levo and 20 T3 for 3 wks then Upto 150mcg Levo and 20 T3 . Dr Skinner doesnt just work by blood results . I suppose I will have to be patient and wait to feel the symptoms change x

[PoppyRose]

I have been told by GP it may take approx. 6 months to make a difference. The condition in itself is very complex and a whole host of things can also have an impact on how you feel, not just the medication. You would have to have a 'like for like' period of time to be able to compare accurately. It's a very 'individual' thing.

[ritz]

i had levo increased for 4 years until i reached 250 and it never worked.

i went to see dr s who added in t3 which made a small difference then changed me to armour which worked

it works for many people but there are also many it does nothing for.- like me

[Ransom]

Hi Bennion - I feel for you, being ill for so long. I've read so much that's good about Dr. Skinner that I assume you're in good hands. Did he assess your adrenal function also? Your conversion of T4 to T3 is a key element in your treatment. I expect your conversion is fine, otherwise he would not be increasing your T4 but also (or instead) your T3 dosage. (T3 is more expensive than T4 which can be a factor).

If increased T4 is really all you need, my experience is that results can be felt as soon as 3-6 weeks. I note others have said much longer, but it can be sooner if you are converting it well into the usable T3. As Dr. Skinner recommended you increase the dose for 3 wks and then increase it again, you should be watching out for how you feel at each 3 week period. If you have any hyper symptoms, better call his office and report that - at any point in the process, actually.

Next time you see Dr. Skinner you might want to mention adrenal function testing. My doc addressed this before increasing any thyroid dosage (the symptoms are similar for hypothyroid and under performing adrenals).

I think a phonecall to Dr. Skinner, asking him how long it should be before you see an improvement, would be in order. The doctor who treats you is the one who should be able to approximate what he expects.

Hope this helps.

Ransom