Thyroid hormone is employed to treat underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), replacing or supplementing the natural thyroid hormone usually produced by the thyroid gland.
Low thyroid hormone levels can result from natural causes, thyroid gland injury due to radiation/medications, or surgical removal of the thyroid.
Adequate thyroid hormone is crucial for maintaining normal mental and physical activity in adults and for normal mental and physical development in children.
The medication is also used to treat other thyroid disorders, such as certain types of goiters and thyroid cancer, and to assess thyroid function.
It should not be used to treat infertility unless caused by low thyroid hormone levels. Older adults should discuss the risks and benefits with their doctor or pharmacist.
Dosage and administration
Take this medication orally as directed by your doctor, usually once daily on an empty stomach, 30 minutes to 1 hour before breakfast.
Dosage is determined based on your medical condition, lab tests, and treatment response. For children, dosage is also influenced by age/weight.
Use the medication regularly to maximize benefits, taking it at the same time each day.
Consult your doctor before discontinuing the medication, as thyroid replacement treatment is typically lifelong.
Certain medications (cholestyramine, colestipol, colesevelam, antacids, sucralfate, simethicone, iron, sodium polystyrene sulfonate, calcium carbonate, orlistat) can reduce thyroid hormone absorption. If using these drugs, separate them from this medication by at least 4 hours.
Do not change thyroid hormone brands without consulting your doctor or pharmacist.
Symptoms of low thyroid hormone levels include tiredness, muscle aches, constipation, dry skin, weight gain, slow heartbeat, or sensitivity to cold. Inform your doctor if your condition worsens or persists after several weeks of medication.
Side effects
Hair loss may occur in the initial months of treatment, typically temporary as the body adjusts. If persistent or worsening, inform your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
The medication is prescribed because its benefits outweigh potential side effects, and many users do not experience serious issues.
Notify your doctor immediately if you observe serious side effects of high thyroid hormone levels, such as increased sweating, sensitivity to heat, mental/mood changes (nervousness, mood swings), tiredness, diarrhea, shaking (tremor), headache, or shortness of breath.
Seek immediate medical help for very serious effects of high thyroid hormone levels, including chest pain, fast/pounding/irregular heartbeat, swelling hands/ankles/feet, or seizures.
Although a serious allergic reaction is rare, seek immediate medical help if you notice symptoms like rash, itching/swelling (especially face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
The provided list is not exhaustive; contact your doctor or pharmacist for any unlisted effects.
Precautions
Inform your doctor or pharmacist of any allergies to thyroid hormone, pork products, or other substances, as inactive ingredients may cause allergic reactions or other issues.
Share your medical history, particularly increased thyroid hormones (thyrotoxicosis), decreased adrenal gland function, heart disease (coronary artery disease, irregular heartbeat), high blood pressure, and diabetes, with your doctor or pharmacist before using this medication.
Before surgery, inform your doctor or dentist about all products you use, including prescriptions, non-prescriptions, and herbal items.
Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects, especially chest pain, fast/pounding/irregular heartbeat.
Current information suggests that this drug may be used during pregnancy, but inform your doctor if you are pregnant as your dose may need adjustment.
Thyroid hormone passes into breast milk but is unlikely to harm a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Additional information
Brand Name:
Armour Thyroid
Scientific Name:
Natural Thyroid, Natural thyroid
Other Names:
Armour Thyroid
Strength(s):
15mg, 30mg, 60mg, 90mg, 120mg, 180mg, 240mg
Quantities Available:
90
Formulation:
Tablet
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Armour Thyroid
