Levothyroxine Side Effects - Complete List + Dosing Guide for Patients
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- Опубліковано 28 тра 2024
- In this video, I go over the complete list of Levothyroxine side effects ranging from weight gain to hair loss and everything in between.
Yes, Levothyroxine can cause hair loss and it can also cause weight GAIN. How can that be if levothyroxine is supposed to boost your metabolism?
In this video I explain how the metabolism of thyroid hormone in your body from T4 to reverse T3 may help explain why many people actually gain weight on this particular medication.
I also go over the recommendations I give to patients if this happens to them.
I also go over how to determine which thyroid medication is right for YOUR Body and how to dose your levothyroxine.
When patients have reactions to levothyroxine it's from 1 of 3 reasons typically:
1) they are reacting to a filler ingredient or a dye within the medication itself.
2) they are converting or metabolizing the thyroid hormone into by products that don't promote proper activity
3) they are getting too much thyroid hormone for THEIR body (this one is less common)
The side effects when patients react to fillers or dyes include reactions like facial swelling, edema, hives, itching sensation, etc.
The side effects from improper metabolism include reactions like weight gain, hair loss, slower than normal metabolism, cold hands/extremities, etc.
The side effects from TOO much medication include hot flashes, tachycardia or rapid heart rate, palpitations, hair loss, intolerance to heat.
The treatment for each of these reactions is quite different and I explain what to do depending on how you are reacting.
Leave your questions below!
Download my free thyroid resources here (including hypothyroid symptoms checklist, the complete list of thyroid lab tests + optimal ranges, foods you should avoid if you have thyroid disease, and more): www.restartmed.com/start-here/
Recommended thyroid supplements to enhance thyroid function:
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- Supplements for those without a thyroid and for those after RAI: bit.ly/3tb36nZ
- Supplements for active hyperthyroidism: bit.ly/3t70yHo
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Disclaimer:
Dr. Westin Childs received his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic medicine in 2013. His use of “doctor” or “Dr.” in relation to himself solely refers to that degree. Dr. Childs is no longer practicing medicine and does not hold an active medical license so he can focus on helping people through videos, blog posts, research, and supplement formulation. To read more about why he is no longer licensed please see this page: www.restartmed.com/what-happe...
This video is for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. It should not be used to self-diagnose and it is not a substitute for a medical exam, treatment, diagnosis, prescription, or recommendation. It does not create a doctor-patient relationship between Dr. Childs and you. You should not make any changes to your medications or health regimens without first consulting a physician. If you have any questions please consult with your current primary care provider. Restart Medical LLC and Dr. Westin Childs are not liable or responsible for any advice, course of treatment, diagnosis, or any other information, services, or product you obtain through this website or video.
#thyroid #hypothyroidism #hashimoto's
Don't forget to grab my FREE thyroid resources and downloads here: www.restartmed.com/start-here/
These downloads include a list of 10 foods you should avoid if you have thyroid problems, the complete list of optimal thyroid lab tests, the complete list of thyroid symptoms (with checklist), and more. If you liked this video then you will love these resources.
Dr Child's My mom who had been on Levorthtyroxine 60 mcg for the last 40 yrs . Now she switched Armour 60 mg is that the right conversion. Bcuz she for this last 3 months feels tired,Weak . she has always been active til all this. Please help. At least if at 60 mcg lev.to Armour 60
How can we get off Levrotyroxine? I've gained @ 50lbs since starting it with and I'm very active. Gym, daily walks, garden, run a house alone yet I can't l I se a pound.
I've been taking levothyroxine 25mcg for many years. I'm a Type 1 Severe Brittle Diabetes for 41 years. I've put on so much weight. I have fatigue all the time, nails issues, hair loss itchy all the time. Even scratch myself while sleeping when I sleep. Being overweight is extremely depressing don't feel good often daily. Use Iron vitamin as also Anemic among other vitamins along with prescription medication.
I had taken Synthroid in beginning when started having Thyroid issues have had an overactive n underactive thyroid through the years. Was taken off Synthroid due to health insurance. Wondering if should ask my Endocrinologist to take me off levothyroxine 🤷🤷🤷🤷. I'm tired of sleeping all the time n feeling like CRAP 🥶😞
God bless you for helping us
I want to cry to why most Doctor don’t elaborate those things with their patients
God bless you millions times
Bless you too, friend ☮️💐
I have been on Levothyroxine for 20 years now. I live in the UK. Since I have started I have gained weight and find it near impossible to lose. I was a healthy weight when I was diagnosed. I always feel tired and or low mood. I have my blood tested every year. I don't know why I bother. I just get given the same 100mg and 'healthcare' just keep pushing Statins (I refuse). My thyroid is NEVER discussed. I have decided to take my health into my own hands. I find channels like this and the discussions most helpful.
Ditto the docs here don’t care
Levothyroxine is working because my test show good results, but the medicine make me highly irritated and very emotional 😭 and that’s me taking .25. I’d rather try natural remedies. Good video 🤙🏼
I asked my doctor to switch me to levothyroxine plus liothyronine when my NDT was recalled. I lost weight and felt good. She freaked out when my TSH dropped too low! She sent me to an endocrinologist when she couldn’t fix my TSH and after fiddling with my dosages, which messed me up. The endocrinologist refused to do a reverse T3 when I asked her to and left me on 88 mcg levothyroxine and 5 mcg liothyronine. I gained 10 pounds almost overnight! I’ve had Hashimoto’s for years and had convinced my doctor years ago to put me on Armour thyroid, until it became difficult to get and more expensive. I thought the combo would be easier to manage, but sadly, it hasn’t been. It’s tough finding anyone who is actually knowledgeable about Hashimoto’s where I live because I follow you and other more forward-thinking doctors. Patients now know more than the stuck-in-the-past endocrinologists. I appreciate you sharing your knowledge; I’ve learned a lot. Im searching for a new doctor.
I’ve been taking this medication now for over 8 years having had a Thyroidectomy in 2009 when I lived in Canada. I went from 170 to 260lb’s I think finally watching your videos you have educated me so much. I’ve started to add extra vitamins into my body. And I’ve just gone really big on putting smoothies into my body made of fresh fruit and veggies... I pray this will help. I’m 57 and my hair is fine now but my nails are brittle. I live in the U.K. and once this lockdown is over I’m definitely going to have another chat with my Dr.
My dosage is 125 a day. Thank you so much. You really really have helped me.
that is what I begun doing--lost 30 pounds.. changed my food..
FYI: I started taking Collagen 3 mons ago and for the first time in my life I had long nails and they were very pretty polished. Unfortunately they were also very annoying. Anyway they r very strong now but I keep them short. Hope this helps.
How are you doing now? I'm just about to start taking 125 in a few days... my level was above 150 for my test.
when i was born,i had no thyroid,and given levothyroxine,and its kept me alive!
I'm glad you've had a good experience with it!
But how would you know since you've never been off it.
my Endo took me off for a month that's how I know I feel better without it, then he put me back on and I feel horrible😖
Frankly, I don't care if the reaction I had was due to a filler. Levothyroxin landed me in the hospital with severe heart attack symptoms. My heart was tested in every way, to the tune of many thousands of dollars out of pocket. The good news was, my heart was fine.
Wow. I’m having issues right now as well
Oh, Lord! I just started today for the first time😮😮😮😢😢😢😢😬
Did you have chest pains? I had that issue. My calcium score and heart were fine however.
I’m having issues too . I hate it!! Makes me want to quit this crap of a drug
@ciaramcclellan9584 I don't recall any discomfort until I got up to walk into the kitchen & was seized with severe, stop you in your tracks pain.
I'm on 50 mg and I feel great, I've got more energy I'm losing weight and I just feel so much better and healthier.
Have you suffered some kind of side effects at that dosage? I am 25 mcg I feel stable but I sleep all day long, then I got over 50 mcg and I get energy but a little warm and sometimes it is hard to sleep. I am confused. Both doses doesn't work at their best. 😑
I'm on 75mg, 50mg, alternative, I am having progressive trimmer to shaking only on my left side, also started feeling heavy some times in my heart, other time right across my chest, other time in the lower part of my body. I'm not on any other mediation. Trimmer only affect my left side only
@@elvishart9389 that doesnt sound normal. See your dr or get 2nd opinion
Thyroid med only comes in mcg
This was so helpful. Thank you so much for doing these videos for us. It's so hard to get any answers of doctors they are not very informative. Also it's hard to find such detailed information. This is very valuable and helpful. Paula England
Wow he must speed his more recent vids up… this is so refreshing to listen to him at normal speed.
Thankful I found your videos. Left sub-total thyroidectomy 20+ years ago. Began losing hair about 2 years ago, dry and brittle. Levothyroxine @ .112mcg. I generally have to ask the doctor to check my TSH, and that's about once a year. Male pattern baldness, and serious thinning, ready to shave my head.
I will look at all your videos on the thyroid to see what I can do to help myself. I was having serious fatigue and began taking Iron tabs a couple of weeks ago. I am feeling better. Will check that ferritin level. Thank you, again.
A lot of people who are on levo don’t need to be on it at all. I was put on it 10 years ago when it was “drug-of-the-year.” I have slowly weaned myself from 88mcg down to 22mcg. Doing fine and looking forward to being completely off in another month or two. No, I didn’t see my doctor- who is not my body’s God.
I don't know if I would say a lot, but there are certainly people who fit into that category: www.restartmed.com/stop-taking-thyroid-medication/
You have perfectly described my symptoms ‼️
Thank you for this excellent presentation.
Thank you Dr. Childs for sharing this information. I had a total thyroidectomy in the late 90,s and have been going on a Rollercoaster ride since.
Me too. I’m so tired of all of this. Now I can’t sit in the sun, because I break out in hives on my legs. My hair is ok for a minute then it starts to fall out. My weight is out of control too. I’m scheduled to see a endocrinologist, hopefully they can help me.
I have been diagnosed as having hypothyroidism and I started Levo this summer. But I've had problems with worsening fatigue. I felt like I was MORE tired now that I'm treating the hypothyroidism than I was before I even tried treating it. Because of that, I stopped taking them. Then I tried half a pill at nighttime (so I could sleep off some tiredness). But I started to get more tired again. It's frustrating wanting to treat it but feeling worse when getting treatment.
I am experiencing the same thing, needing to treat it but feeling worse. My doc got so frustrated with me that he accused me of making things up...so I no longer talk about it to him.
Total thyroidectomy here... My Endocrinologist was not helpful. I was prescribed many different Levo pill dosages (all colors) I stopped taking the levo because I was miserable (dangerous, not advised) My PCP took me off Levo and put me on the brand name med, Synthroid. I also take 5-10mg of cytomel . I am no longer in pain everyday! I seem to be losing weight in my abdominal area. It's only been 1 month but I am much happier. I am learning from youtube to help my doctors help me!
@@kelter1027you need a new dr
@@gencoop1000what is cytomel
i am on 175 mcg and now take 3x50 - these dyes/fillers were killing me! its hard to find someone in Calgary, Alberta that understands.... i'm very grateful for your knowledge Dr. Childs as i'm looking to a community for support. its been 27 years of struggle (started at 20years old) and i'm determined to change this. Working thur all your video and changing up my lifestyle, eating habits, diet, supplements, daily work outs and so on. Down 26lbs and feel 80% better. its been so hard - but nice to hear your thoughts & support! thank you!! i am definitely going to get all the tests redone as per your suggests as my TSH was about 310mIU/l in January prior to me taking charge on my own.
This is an older video, but exactly what I needed!!!! My Endocrinologist won’t add T3 for me and I feel awful most of the time!!! Trying to run around finding a new one in our area is nearly impossible! When in Georgia my Endo had me on a very small dose of Cytomel and I felt so much better!
Try a naturopathic doctor who can prescribe it.
Find a functional medicine physician
For what it's worth, my pcp suggested T3, and while it did give me more energy during the day, it horribly disrupted my sleep. Then, the next day after I didn't sleep, I'd feel actively sick, irritable instead of mellow/tired (that's the one upside of being hypothyroid, for me--I'm so tired I don't have the energy to be irritable,) and after a few episodes of this, I decided it had to be the T3. It resolved when I quit taking it. I'm probably an anomaly though
Thank you for this! I have had hashimotos for 20 plus years. I am 5’9 and went from 127 to 175 in literally 2 years. Recently had cytomel added 2x a day.. still can’t lose weight and still sluggish but running 5 miles a day
Me too! I g ained and unable to lose a pnd
@@pamc3338 I gained over 100 pounds.. I began having fruit smoothies in morning.. Baked pond fish and salad at end of day.. I lost 30 pounds in 2-1/2 months.. I tried other diets but this is only one worked fr me.. I eat only natural foods.. No boxed or additives.. al fresh.. if you can try it.. Good luck..
@@brendamyers6320 good for you! Keep it up!
I ahe hosimoto .I was in bad shape atc2l presently taking 235 mcg I weig 109 to107
Stain to not loose any more.iam 175 .feel bad have naropathy hands and legs.and feet have one hip. Replacement early dementia.
I am hashimatos too but can’t gain ... I am 5’5 , weight 55 kgs... i want to gain little but can never gain ...falling hair is my probs😢
I know this is an old video, but thanks for making it. I have a history of side effects from medications. I’ve been on levothyroxine for about ten years. I have lost about 90% of the hair on my head, and have NO hair on my arms or legs. I’ve mentioned it to the doctor, and it has never really been addressed. My old provider retired, and the new guy seems to see me as an old lady waiting to die (I’m in my 60s), and isn’t much help. He just likes to write prescriptions.
I understand. I’m just getting into the thyroid hell. Tomorrow I’m having all my hormones tested, another metabolic panel, as the thyroid test is still high/ hypothyroidism, yet my symptoms are the opposite. I have enough med conditions, and this adds to it. FEDUP
Change doctors
I have been on this drug for 6 yrs now , and I've had no problems at all , my blood is tested every few months , I'm glad to be on it because I was ill at the time and the weight loss was bad , I have an over active thyroid and was told by my consultant I had graves decease .
Very impressive video. Thank you so much.
I’m so glad I found this
Your channel is amazing!!!
Glad you like it!
"Never felt better" can be taken 2 different ways. It's a good thing you clarified that later.
Ive learned so much thru this video! Thank you! Im on Levothyroxine and struggling in almost every way mentioned here. Im gonna get another doctor and see what I can do. Ive lost so much hair. Looking forward to feeling better and getting some hair back.....
Multi collagen protein will grow your hair back I SWEAR. I take Levo.
Love that you explained all the details on levothyroxine .
Thank you
I have been on the Levthyroxinefor about 3 weeks!No problems at all!
Thank you so much for the information you provided. You taught me everything I needed to know about hypothyroidism. I experienced side effects of this med. I have already changed my diet. The only thing that would be hard to quit is coffee, but no one ever gave me accurate information. Again, thank you so, so much.
Thanks for share this information.
Thank you..I have had the same side affects 25years, I'm 60 yrs old. including epilepsy since I was 8yrs old.
I went through a rare they say very rare thyradic storm which almost killed me by preventing them to perform surgery on my lower intestine which split open why in the er exam room also finding out i had a hole in my intestine fo awhile and was told due to my thyroid I wouldn't survive the surgery well here I am and thank you to all the docs and nurses involved at Ben Taub Houston
This is interesting... AS I GET older, I was told my Thyroid was off kilter. Which related to the weight gain I was experiencing. Actually I always had a weight issue since I was 15. Looking back, I attributed that to the American diet.
My earlier years, I never saw any photos as a kid...with me looking overweight. Actually, I was quite slender for my age. BUT when we moved back to this country (military brat) - my weight started going up. My family told me I was overeating ... but what IT was was a diet of Pastas, and more carbs. Hell...I wasn't a cook, and I relied on my family to feed me. I never once saw a salad at our dinner table. And short of eating too little - I was stuck in Teenage Hell.
When I was 50, I experience 50 lb weight gain, stress from a cross country move, my Ex's car accident, and stress out of the Box... I was told, my thyroid was not working. I refused to go on drugs. I tried changing eating habits. Which was difficult, considering my ex was skinny, and wanted to NOT eat healthy.
Over the past ten years - I changed my diet. More vegetables, less red meat, and overcame a sugar addiction. I dropped weight like Crazy! The only reason I gained any Weight was due to Sugar. I also suffer from some arthritis - so I gave up ALL DAIRY. Which proved to be a good thing, considering how MILK & Dairy is processed and the high rate of Estrogen in dairy products. My aches and pains are almost non existent...unless I work out to much... like mowing the yard for an hour or two. But I LOVE working like that!
I do take Magnesium - and it helps me sleep. But a year ago, a doctor said he felt Nodules on my thyroid... and seem to be more tired than usual. Some of that I attributed to working too much. hahaha But I miss my Surges of Energy. Damn getting older really stinks.
Man... did I mention I really hate doctors who don't consider NATURAL cures?? My poor mother was given drugs that NEVER helped her dementia...so WHO do you Trust?????
I also hate doctors that won't consider natural alternatives. They keep prescribing the same pharma profit making garbage. I've read so many comments from people who've felt terrible for years and they don't listen or take the time to try something else. I use Standard Process. Vitalogic was awesome but the company went out of business.
worsening fatigue is listed in both less common and more common sections :) I'm taking 50mcg of levothyroxine at the moment , i was on 25mcg a few months ago which had no impact but now on 50mcg i have some of the symptoms mentioned including feeling warm in the face area like hot flashes, i also seemed to have developed some reaction to a moisturiser i have that i never had before but using another one now ( i do have sensitive skin) skin is sometimes itchy as well around face and scalp and i still get tired too often as well . i am due another blood test next week as been on these ones for nearly 3 months so i will see if anything has changed but will mention these side effects as well. very informative video :)
me to I've been on 50 sence 2010, I'm looking into alternative, I'm only 107 pounds and can't gain weight
@@shearosamamacita The medicine industry is a BUSINESS.. FIRST AND FOREMOST. A very lucrative one. It's a one-size fits all system. If your TSH testing is off... Levothyroxine is prescribed...it's the drug big pharma peddled to EVERYONE w thyroid symptoms. I haven't known one person taking it whose thyroid symptoms improved on that pharmaceutical. NOT ONE.
I also do the hot flashes, I’m 72, itchy skin, especially at night. I use Neutrogena Hydroboost. Then my dermatologist recommended it to me but was already using
❤❤Doctor knew I had thyroid problems for 10 years before it showed up. Had test 3 days before I had diabetes and it showed up then. I've been on lev. for 30 years. I have always taken .025 mcg. It does show up any time they check it. So what to do? I've had hair loss and cold all the time. I take it alone an hour before breakfast and some time I don't eat fir 5 or 6 hours after taking it.
Meant to say doesn't show up on test now either
Thank you doctor Childs.
Thank you very informative.
Welcome!
Amazing explanation thank you dr I’m losing hair like crazy
Thanks for the information
i am going to discuss this with my doctor
Thanks for the video
I've been on levothyroxine for 3 or 4 years now. I take two 300mcg, a total of 600mcg a day early in the morning when I get up. Which is around 2:30-3:00 maybe sometimes 4:30 at the latest. And I gained over 40 pounds from it.
Ive been on levothyroxine for about 7 years. In the beginning it made me feel better, but for last 5 years i feel bad all time with body pain allover. I exercise all time and eat small amounts and very healthy food, but cannot lose weight. I believe its the levothyroxine so i know doctor says you have to take for life, but im gonna stop taking it and see what happens.
How did you get on when you stopped taking the medication.
I am planning to do the same. Please let us know how you got on 👍
I also am having the same symptoms as you have, Dr. said my thyroid test said my dose was to high, but I was gaining weight, with no appetite at all.., listen to this Dr. and he said instead of T4, start taking T3, so I have just started and am starting to eat a bit more and am losing weight, I went from 163 down to 148 in a few months while eating more...my weight use to be 115 to 120 lbs., 5' 7", so this extra weight was really pulling me down, it was so hard to be carring all this extra weight, and I eat like a little bird, really I never feel hungry, I have to be told to eat as I never think of eating.
I used it for 3 years. So much side effects like gaining weight, rash, breathing problems, burbing when i get outoff bed for long time...i took 75 mcg. Was so fad up of it, stopped radical to see what will happen. Within 2 weeks all side effect were gone !!! For 3 months, then my hormons started to drop....then i had to take something like tirosint. 2 y on 25 mcg. I got hartpalpitations... now i took 13 mcg more for half year but with bloodtest it had no effect totally!! If 13 mcg doesnt work what does the other 25 then??? Now i took again 13 Total 51mcg. My weight started to go up again.... i think for sure under my skin i see fat and water building up. Around my stomach is the worst. After 7 years still didnt work proper. If raising up meds doesnt do....then i try to stop with it or take less as possible like 25
Interesting presentation. I am on 125 MCG, levothyroxine after being diagnosed with Grave’s Disease and having a total thyroidectomy three weeks ago for papillary thyroid cancer.. I take my medicine as prescribed but still have all of the symptoms related to Grave’s Disease and hyperthyroidism. It is very annoying because I assumed that things would instantly change once my thyroid was removed. I had my follow-up with my surgeon and we discussed the pathology report which was a confirmation of the initial diagnosis and metastasis into a few lymph nodes. I see my endocrinologist next Tuesday and will discuss this issue with her. I know I will be having radioactive iodine treatment. I just want these awful symptoms to go away.
You have wrong medication of levothyroxine for hyoerthyrodism. Levothyroxine is a synthetic for of T4 which the not active form of thyroid hormone.
@@meggiedemy6459 I take the medication because I have no thyroid after surgery for metastatic papillary thyroid cancer. I have to take the medication for my metabolism. The dosage has been lowered. My medication is correct.
Can I ask you what type of symptoms you had before surgery ? Would appreciate any info thanks
@@tonis19891023 Before surgery, I was very hungry eating everything but losing weight. I had insomnia and horrible night sweats. There was no pain at all. When I mentioned this to my primary physician, he asked if I had any family members with thyroid problems. My mother and sister both had under active thyroids and had partial removals. He ordered blood tests that indicated an over active thyroid and I was diagnosed with Grave's Disease. I was referred to a surgeon who felt nodules on my thyroid. I had a biopsy which came back as papillary thyroid cancer with some metastasis.
@@slipdisco thanks a lot take care
thank you so much!!! Had a thyroid panel drawn today, to see where I stand. Taking 88mcg levothyroxine daily now for a year, but feel very edgy and not myself. Not sleeping well and gained 10 pounds since my dose was increased from 75mcg to the 88mcg about a year ago. TSH last year was 3.51, so she increased my dose. I feel best with a TSH of 2. When all this started 7 years ago my TSH was 8, at that time I was placed on 50mcg that left me feeling like a million bucks along with a 10 pound weight loss. Over the years it has slowly crept from a happy, feel good 2, to the level of 3.51.
I feel much better Donald Trump is going to jail.
@@missadventuresmotorcycledi2773 get lost troll
@@jenniferbecca3050 Your lost not me.
@@missadventuresmotorcycledi2773 Haha. You post is unwarranted on this page. Trump and Dr. Westin have nothing in common. So bye.
really helpful in how to look at & understand lab work
Glad you found it helpful!
Such great info. Thank you so much for doing this.
Welcome!
My doctor kept upping my dose of Thyroxine to the point I was having panic attacks, but my tsh was still 25+. Eventually saw a functional doctor and got on NDT and feel a lot better now. This is for Hashimoto's.
I've been taking synthroid for years and I have never felt any better. My hair loss didn't change and got worse. I am gradually losing more and more of my eyebrows and other body hair. I'm always exhausted, I've gained weight despite the fact that I actually don't eat a lot. I have T1 diabetes which I've had for 54 yrs. I started taking thyroid medication when I was in my 30s which was 30 yrs ago. I have never felt this was the right medication for me, but I cannot get my doctor to listen to me about it. I have a lot of other health issues and he will just put some of my symptoms down to those. I have a connective tissue disorder which causes arthritis etc and I have fibromyalgia which seems to come along with the connective tissue disorder. I have memory loss as well. I don't know how to get my doctor to consider something different.
I totally sympathise. I have been taking Levo for over 20 years. I have a blood test every year and they just give me the same dosage (100mg) and can't be bothered to discuss further. I have decided to take my health into my own hands. Forums like these help.
I'm 72...been on Levo since age 30. Have felt like shit my whole life...sad. Find a sr. med student at Universiyy teaching they study and they really care.
My sister has asked to be put on a different med because Levo is inadequate. Her doctors are firm that it is the ONLY option. I fired my doc and got one that put me on Armour, which I do pretty well on. The resistance of the so-called medical community to alternative creates an impossible situation for the patient
What's interesting is that these are not alternatives, they are prescription medications intended to treat hypothyroidism. It would be one thing if they weren't medications, but they are.
It's the drug big pharma has been peddling FOR ENDLESS DECADES...they intend for you to be on it for the rest of your life. PROFITS are their main objective.
My endocrinologist put me on armour and I love it
I often wonder what the priority of Doctors actually is. The general health and well-being of the patient, or the financial incentive from the drugs manufacturer?
@@drwestinchildsSo why are the doctors so... resistance
Hi been diagnosed with the Hash.sevral years ago. Of course, first medication he rx-d me was the levo..I hated it I gain weight and felt tired,but my numbers were "normal"🙄 I was upset because I kept gaining weight. Currently I take a pork gland and it seems to work better for my body. My insurance stinks so it wont cover the the good stuff. Nature Thyroid isn't manufactured anymore, that was the best for me. Armour thyroid is great too! Then my new insurance kicked in and kicked that out. Lol! So now I am on NP Thyroid meh its ok, I am going to check your videos on thyroid supplements and take them in conjunction with my NP Thyroid. 😊 Thank you so much for your work. You have helped an insane amount of people. ❤
Had a thyroidectomy 35 years ago. Been on Levo since. Gained 80 pounds and never lost it til I went through menopause in my 50's. It was like a switch was turned in in my body.
Helpful, it's been totally confusing.
I was diagnosed in 2009 with Hypothyroidism. Put on Levo, dose has remained at .112 mcg except for a short time that an endo had me at .125 mcg. I suffer with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. I wake up only to take a long nap . . . . Losing weight is very hard. The CFS interferes with any exercise because I want to fall asleep! Yes, I take a multivitamin, E for hair where it has thinned up front. So what’s a woman to do?
Armor thyroid is much better than levothyroxine. it contains T4 and T3. Pharmaceutical companies try to claim thyroid patients have no trouble turning t4 into T3 but that is not so. Especially if the patients adrenal glands are weak. To find out if a doctor is willing to prescribe Armor Thyroid ask pharmacies which doctors they know prescribe it.
I was on dessicated and started doing much better. I got a specialist who put me on synthroid. She made me switch tellling me “my bones wouldn’t turn over on dessicated “ and I’d end up with osteoporosis.
I feel like absolute shit. Hair falling out. Severe muscle fatigue and pain and my feet are numb. I gained more weight and I’m miserable. I hate myself and I hate my life. No care health care.
Get tested for drug induced lupus
I was on one thing 19 years ago after having a complete thyroidectomy, then changed to Synthroid. I started feeling all the side effects bothering me and went to a naturopathic doctor who put me on desiccated hormone. I was feeling better but, on my visits to the endocrinologist, she wasn’t happy with my decision and after some time of listening to her displeasure with my choice for treatment, I switched to another endocrinologist who over time won in my changing back to Synthroid. My dosage was messed up for more than 15 yrs. Changed doctor again and she levelled my t3&4, but because the side effects are getting worse, days ago I asked to be put on Tirosint having less fillers etc. She said she couldn’t prescribe it because it isn’t available in Canada. Given a prescription for Levo. I told her I would even cross the border to get it and was told she would have to be licensed in the USA for it to be valid, contradicting a pharmacist across the border who told me I just needed a prescription. The Levo I started today list more side effects than Synthroid….lord help us…
I got fed up with hair loss and went bald on the top of my head. It was so bad I stopped taking it. I have now changed my medication. it's improved completely. I've now got hair. Levoxine.
Changed to what ?
I started taking Levothyroxine 25 MCG a year ago and feel terrible.......stiffness, soreness and pain in my whole body. I felt better when I was not taking it. Talking to my doctor to stop it.
Some people can definitely stop taking it. You can learn more here: www.restartmed.com/stop-taking-thyroid-medication/
Same.it caised me the worst pain all over my body! Like someone took a bat to the back of my neck and skull
Have been taking Blackstrap Molasses (2 teaspoons mixed in milk) daily. Has iron, magnesium, manganese, calcium, B6 and have always had glossy full head of hair. However since starting Levothyrixine, hair is dry, dull, and thinning....scary!!
It seems crazy to me that Depression and Infertility are "less serious" side effects.
I suppose it's all relative!
@@drwestinchilds According to whom?
The Mylan brand is a game changer. No more anxiety or depression.
I have an infant that is currently on this med tonight was the first time I've seen your page she was born two months early but she was put on this med since she's been born and she is having the side effects swelling around the eyes gi she seems to take along take to digest her good and have been monitoring her heart along with weight loss. What should I do?
My son started taking Levothyroxine at 14 he has Hashimoto’s. His hair has been falling out by the handfuls since, now leaving him almost bald at 20years old. This breaks my heart!!!
His self esteem has been effected terribly as far as ever meeting someone. He says what girl wants a bald guy at 20. I’ve never heard hair loss could be caused by meds, I thought it was from having Hashimoto’s.
Awww…..this just breaks my heart! I wish you could find a Dr for your son that would help him! How unfair for him! 😢❤My son has high functioning autism and that breaks my heart too. Praying for your son and for you Stephanie! 🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕
I had my whole thyroid removed 9 years ago and have never left good since. I still have traces of cancer left in my body so my doctor says that’s why my Levotgyroxine has to be so high. Do you think you could help with my situation and are you still conducting the 45 minute phone calls. PLEASE let me know thank you
And I have had type two diabetes for 17years I started taking insulin in 2011 I have no diabetes complications and my a1c is 6.
Sodium Lauryl Sulphate has to be why I cannot take Levothyroxine as have had to throw out every thing with it in. I take NP THYROID now, but in UK you have to buy it yourself.
I have hypothyroid issue and take 75mcg levothyroxine.My weight was 48 kg. My problem is that after continuing my medication i starts losing my weight so fast and feel tired and irritated.i lose almost 3 to 4kg.I never gain weight even before or after medicine.Any suggestions..? I more have symptoms of hyperthyroidism like bloating,weight loss, palpitations,hair loss but my tsh is 21.
Excellent video! What is your experience with women breastfeeding on this medication? Thank you.
It's not an issue to use it while breastfeeding.
I truly thought it was just me feeling depressed, having awful body aches, and not losing the weight I've gained with Hashimoto's! I'm on Tirosint (gluten free gel pill) 112mcg five days a week, 224 mcgs for the other two days. It helps a bit, but I'm nowhere near the activity level, mental or emotional level I was. It's a terrible disease that pecks you to death. You struggle everyday to just barely reach the minimum of your personal standards.
Excellent comments, Germaine. I have been on thyroid meds for 22 years after half of the thyroid was removed. I was so ill I was sure I was going to die, seriously. Desperate, I began titrating my dose by using parts of the various doses I had until I found a dose that made me feel human again. Finally, I thought I just might live. The doctor, at the time, lowered my dose to where I felt better. I now take .112mcg and wonder if it shouldn't be lowered as I am losing hair, along with other issues. We will see.
Very
Have you tried switching to Carnivore diet
Hello Doctor Childs!
My TSH is 4.65
Ft4 16.81 pmol/l
Ft3 5.69 pmol/l
Ferritin 24 ng/ml
Iron serum 140 microg/dl
Estrogen 211 (luteal 50-250 pg/ml)
Testosterone 0.42 ng/ml
Progesterone 11.5ng/ml (luteal range 1.2-25)
I have never taken medication before, how much do you recommend of Tiromel and Levothyroxine?
I want to lose weight but still keep the fat in my feminine body parts
Do you recommend that I take estrogen?
Thank you!
Synthroid has Acacia tree as a filler. This can cause allergic reactions as well.
I had been on levothyroxine for 30 yrs. My new gp took me off it because she said that older folks (I am 82)don't need it.
In the meantime I have been dx with st. 3c endometrial cancer, had a hysterectomy and am now on chemo.
My onc. put me back on levo. because my tsh went up to 9.5.
I am now realizing that the symptoms I have been having may be because of levo. Onc said chemo can cause the tsh to go up.
My symptoms are burning across my shoulders, bp up, anxiety.
Hi I have been diagnosed with Graves disease 8 years ago I have been put on anti thyroid medication and within a month I went underactive and I started taking levothyroxine for over 6 years my doze was between 100 to 150 micrograms and then I relapsed and I needed to go on anti thyroid medication again and after a year of this medication I had radio iodine after the radio iodine my thyroid hormone level stayed normal for only 6 weeks after the 6 weeks I have started levothyroxine 25 micrograms and my T4 and T3 are at the normal levels but I still have fatigue, muscle aches, hair loss and I can't lose weight although I exercise and made changes in my diet choose healthy choices and eat normal portions.
Do you have an idea what I can do to improve these things. I also want to say that in the 6 years period I never had these problems when my thyroid hormone levels were normal.
Thank you..! I've been take 100 mcg twice a day for 1yr and now just 150 mcg a day for two days then skip one day. True. When I was took 100 mcg twice a day my hair lose much.
Dates is good to eat?
Hi Dr Childs it’s funny I should come across this today. I had been On levothyroxine 75 for about 6 months, 💎thrumy insurance from my HMO, which is another issue. Since it’s free Hmo pharmacies buy from different place. When this happened Levo tasted like cardboard since I always chewmy meds TSH was .54 on my low range is 0.40 next visit in January was 0.24 which meant I was now hyperthyroid, the hair on the top/sides of my head. The hair on my head is dry and brittle. It literally started to brake off. One side worse than the other. This was enough to make me very depressed. my Hashimotos flared up and my body started craving sugar like a crazy woman. My A1C is at 5.4 and only taking one metformin 500 a day if I really needed it a day because I was way below range and some times took nothing but the sugar cravings were not me at all. so I knew something was Sometimes none at all as I was so hyper. prior I was feeling well, I had energy and no constipation.I think my issue might be conversion, all my test had been really good, so my dr stopped the RT3 test. Anyway I text the office and explained to my Dr office what happened, so she lower my dose to 50, but by the time I saw her the damage had been done to my hair. The Dr then lowered my levo to 50 mg, but when I went back to see in her my TSH went up dramatically from 0.24 below range to 2.9. All the numbers changed for the worse which activated my Hashimoto I felt. I am on LDN 4 mg and that has been a blessing thank you for sharing the information with use. LDN took all the fibromyalgia, and back pain away. We do know 2.9 is not my spot because the I was still symptomatic, so again she added 5 more mcgs of T3 along with the levo 50 mg. I am feeling a lil better, but my hair still not growing, nails are finally growing but still brittle. We decided testing my blood every two weeks. Then I text her after I saw the new bloodwork now. TSH was 2.08 better but again, my hair is not growing and nails growing but dry and brittle. She then increased Dr. Increased her T3 to 10 mcg, and levo was left at 50 mg. I still feel hypo again not as bad. When I saw her last week I asked her if taking the generic make a difference as interactions were different. I believe because HMOs pick the cheapest cost to them because it no cost out of pocket for me. She suggested doing synthroid to give it a try. I also asked the pharmacist about the difference he explained synthroid might be better as it’s made of the same ingredients all the time. I Started today synthroid 50 mg with 10 mcg of T3 after I did my blood work today 4/24/23. We will see my bloodwork in this week. Hopefully my TSH has gone down . I still feel hypo so I feel I have not found my right spot yet. Maybe my hot spot is somewhere between 0.50- 1.50. Losing your hair is the most devastating thing for a woman our self esteem goes down the drain. Wigs here in Florida is a no with all this heat.Sorry for the long story readers should know it can take years to find your ideal spot. The only thing I haven’t tried is tiroset or T3 on its own. People if you read this pay attention to what’s going on, and to what Dr child’s is saying , don’t wait until your next drs visit! Journal your symptoms, your good days and bad says. Always have your labs done and all the tests you n Dr Child’s site! Thank you Dr Childs for all your insights. You are appreciated I hope people take what your saying seriously, as it effects the quality of your life! Thank you! 🙏
Dr. Child's , if you have Nogales, I hope that's spelled right. 😊. But I was told I had 3 on my right side of my thyroid. I started out on taking 175 , now I'm on 150. I definitely have the thinning and hair lost. I lost weight for a while after I gain but now I'm at a stand still. I'm on a cane because of a fall but I was diagnose with ostiosarithtist. So I was wondering if I'm taking the right doses. Thank you for the information to look at.
I thought you were suggesting "NOGALES" cactus as an Alternative medicine but, see you are describing "NODULES" Which are growths on your thyroid. They grow very slowly if at all. I've had them 20 years but, only had a change in last 5 year's. I have an ultrasound and biopsy( if change seen) every 3 years.
Levi thyroxin -one of the side effect -elevated triglyside (j of clin.chemistry and bio chem.) eltroxin (thyroein sodium salt) was recommended
I have the 50 mcg daily. So far so good.
i just found your videos. I have been on 125 mcg of levothyroxine for over 20 years, never felt any better. I tried mentioning it to my doctor once, and since my TSH was fine according to her, she shut me down. I live in a small town, and am not able to find someone who wants to prescribe anything but levothyroxine.
I also had complained to doctor about fatigue and thinning hair, she didn’t even acknowledge my concerns.
Can you please speak to how asthma meds like Advair and other inhaler effect thyroid meds, function, and tests? If you've already addressed this, can you point me to the video? Thanks
after being on 88mcg for 12 yrs it suddenly started to make me sick, my Dr lowered it to 75mcg, that didn't work so it got lowered to 50 and that didn't work.So now I'm on 50mcg of tirosint and I'm still sick I have inner trembling, anxiety, extreme, fatigue, unstable blood pressure, shortness of breath and headaches my Endo says my T4 and TSH level is normal and to keep taking it but I feel better without it. Please help😥
Thank you Dr Childs. I had my thyroid removed in May 2020 and now taking 75mcg of Levo. I have some insomnia, trouble falling asleep, but sleep for 5-7 hours usually. Last night I only got 4 hrs of sleep. I also have gained about 16-20 pounds, Today I feel like I have a fever, that warm feeling in my mouth, but only have a 97.0 temperature and feel like I am coming down with something. I am 77 and weigh 140 lbs. Am I taking too much? My last office visit I was told my blood work looked good. That was 2 weeks ago.
It sounds like you might be but you will need to test your labs to make sure.
I'm on 25mg levothyroxine and so far it's working my first dose we will see in a few weeks if I get any side effects like hair loss I'm already losing hair from thyroid but the hair shedding isn't as bad as it was since the levothyroxine dose
Do you recommend to take Iodine as well
i have hashimoto disease and I have been on levothyroxine for about 2 months I've gain weight, i feel really bad, extremely fatigue and even my eye sight has gotten worst but lately I've been having my legs/ feet get swollen. I don't know if this is normal. have a dr appointment next month but should i make it sooner?
You can reverse hashimoto with diet, check online!
I love reading and listening to all that you're saying, but come away with more confusion about what I should be doing. I have been experiencing hair loss for the past year and a half and I've used Minoxidil, to try to grow it again, but it's not working that well; I still have the initial hair loss. None of the good things that you're saying should be happening, are happening for me while taking the Levothyroxine, that I've been taking for years! I've been on thyroid medication since I was a teenager! It's not working! I've gained weight and am not feeling great. Thanks for the information. (from Sandi)
YEs my endochrinologist is gradually,inceasing myndosage with ONLY the 50mcg tablets I AM SURE this is why fillers and dyes.I do get scalp itching anyway and dry facial skin.
I have been taking Synthroid ( the brand) for 53 years for hypothyroidism/hashimotas disease because I can’t tolerate levothyroxine. I have not had any issues with gaining weight:
I am going through Menopause as well as Hypothyroid. I have felt for some time that my Levothyroxine (112mg) is too much for my system. I have hot flashes all day long, trouble sleeping, symptoms of ADD and super low energy. How do I identify the cause?
Hot flashes could be due to estrogen withdrawal, not necessarily excess thyroid dose - though both could potentially cause hot flashes
Hi Dr westin. I am listening to some of your podcasts.. I've been hashimotos for years. 5 years ago I started seeing an endocrinologist . I have been not feeling so well. I tell my doc I have horrible insomnia and losing my hair and fatigued. I keep up with my numbers but he says my numbers are great and my symptoms are probably my change in life. Pfffft. I'm 50, personal trainer, excellent weight. I feel I'm over medicated he says no. I would like your opinion on my numbers, I am looking for a new doctor. He is kind but kind of ignores what I'm saying. Here's the numbers.. t 4 free direct 1.43, t3 3.5,. And my tsh is .006, yep .006! He feels that because my other two numbers are good, must be oerimenapause. Oh, also losing my lashes and brows. Thank you so much. Just wanted your opinion. Thanks for all you do.
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I have been taking synthroid 88 mcg for 30 years with no problems. I take it sublingually because it is absorbed more thoroughly that way than swallowing it and having it absorb thru
the G.I. tract. Works for me.
I'm on the same dose of levo.
I was trying sublingual also but my gp told me not to. Gp said it's made for stomach digestion.
I've been taken level by Roxanne all my life. I'm 61 now started taking it when I was in my early. Twenties. , common and I have a very difficult time getting my doctor to work with me on changing me. Are finding something that might work better? I'm thinking about to stop taking it and see if I feel any better not sure what to do yet
I am tt patient. I was on 150 t4 and 25 t3 and my tsh was 0.01 ,but my doc reduced it to 125 t4 and t3 as same as before.Now I am experiencing super brain fog and tiredness
Make sure to check your free T3/reverse T3 ratio and sex hormone binding globulin.
What about people with congenial hypothyroidism without the gland? I’m eating super healthy no sugar no gluten vegetables and drink a lot of water and I’m gaining weight.
In case of subclinical hypothyroidism, if taking livothyroxine can breast create cancer or tumour? Please reply
Dr Childs, I'm on Levothyroxine for a few years now. Put on weight and worse all my hair thinning so much and handfuls of hair falling off in shower every day. I always had Insomnia though. Don't know what to do. I walk much every day and eat salads and chicken, fish, fruits, veggies and occasional pizza slice. I am still putting on weight especially mid section. I am Diabetic as well. 😔
I live in the UK and I'm entitled to free NHS healthcare. I can't afford private healthcare. The problem is, the NHS have stopped prescribing NDT and other T3 thyroid hormone drugs. Apparently now, all they offer to treat hypothyroidism is levothyroxine. And I can't get a RT3 blood test either on the NHS - my Dr says this isn't available in the UK. I think NDT is still out there but only if you go private (in the UK). So I really don't know what to do.
I'm a 31 year old woman and I was diagnosed with an underactive thyroid in 2018 (when I was 28), based on 1 set of blood test results which included high TSH. But I don't know how high. I was also diagnosed with low vit D and low B12. Apparently the vit D and B12 were extremely low. I was placed on supplements for the deficiencies and test results for them have since come back normal. But since being on levothyroxine, I've felt increasingly unwell. Not once have I felt better since being on this medication. My starting dose was 50mcg. I started to have hot sweats, head aches, dizziness and feeling sick that seemed to come on all of a sudden if I'd been out just walking or gone to the shop. I thought the dose was too high so i had more bloods done. My TSH came back normal. I'm aware that can be irrelevant. But my Dr basically insisted it was all in my head and I should be feeling better. I did research and found that the fillers in levothyroxine can cause side effects. One source basically said the higher the dose the less fillers. So in the hope of feeling better I asked my Dr to increase my dose if there is room to as I still felt unwell. My dose was increased to 75mcg in November 2020. Since then I have still felt no better and I have gained more weight. And I am always hungry. I hate myself for eating, but it's as if I feel sick and dizzy when I go too long without food (which is never long at all). I have been tested several times in the last few years for diabetes too, because I seem to be urinating more at night since being on levothyroxine.
I have requested that my Dr refer me to an endocrinologist. She has saud she will write to them. But I don't have high hopes as the NHS simply don't provide other options for treatment of an underactive thyroid. My hope is that I may have been subclinical hypothyroid and I don't need levothyroxine. Although my Dr did say it was my immune system attacking my thyroid. I had to do my own research to find out it's called Hashimotos thyroiditis. The Dr who originally diagnosed me told me not that much at all - apart from it's incurable and I'll have to take levothyroxine for the rest of my life. All this based on 1 set of TSH level test results. Tests since have been normal and while I've been on levothyroxine. But like I say - I feel dreadful. I also suffer EXTREME fatigue, aches and pains (which I am seeing a rheumatologist for in November as arthritis and degenerative disc disease run in my family). But I've thought, could the weight gain have caused the back and leg pain I'm suffering from. And could the weight gain be from levothyroxine. I really feel like this is the case. And if I'm genetically predisposed to back problems - it's foreseeable that getting fatter might cause it to happen sooner?
I really am at the end of my tether. I have no life. I don't go out. I'm too fatigued and in pain to go at it with exercise to lose weight and feel better. I feel trapped. Drs won't listen. I stay in because going out just to the shop leaves me so exhausted and in pain. And staying in has made me even more inactive. It's a vicious circle and my weight is ballooning.
I'm 5'8" and I last felt healthy when I was 13 stone. Although I know that isn't slim, I felt ok and looked good. I'm curvy and had a slim waist, skinny ankles and wrists, collarbone definition. According to BMI that's overweight, but like I say I didn't feel like I do now. I'm now 2 stone heavier, at 15 stone and I feel dreadful. Again I'm aware that's not morbidly obese for my height. But I'm sure the extra weight is putting pressure on my back and my knees - as I say, those problems run in my family. I still have slim wrists and ankles and a lot of people have said I don't look particularly dreadful. But I feel like death most days. It's rare I feel well at all. All since being on levothyroxine.
I felt unwell of course, before being diagnosed with an underactive thyroid - but never as bad as I do now!!! Could that just have been the other deficiencies?
Things like diet change being the cure scare me, because what are my options when I'm poor and there's very little I enjoy besides food. Meat and dairy are part of my balanced diet. I do eat enough vegetables too. But I would really struggle to cut out meat and dairy altogether. Alternative foods can be expensive and I'm already living well below the poverty line on benefits as I'm not well enough to work. I seem to often be low in vitamin b12 so surely it would be a bad idea cutting out animal products? Are there other supplements I can take, that can be bought at a reasonable price over the counter in the UK? I haven't seen iodine supplements anywhere for example. But if someone could tell me where?
I want to stop taking levothyroxine completely! I feel like I'm being poisoned. I'm going to give it a try to see if I feel better. I have nothing to lose it this point.
I have no faith in seeing an endocrinologist here in the UK. I feel like they will fob me off with the same bullshit. As they won't or can't even give me a RT3 test.
Any help or advice from anyone would be greatly appreciated as I'm struggling to find reasons not to kill myself tbh.
I can't provide medical advice on youtube but I would strongly suggest seeking out some mental help if you are feeling suicidal. There is always hope even if it doesn't feel like you can see it right now!
Levoxyl has always worked great for me. I won’t take generic levothyroxine.
Can you address people who take these meds who have no thyroid
I guess different person,different side effect,im drinking levothyroxine by sandoz and im okay but when the pharmacy switch me to levothyroxine by Lennet this gives me a lot of problem,I feel like im running out of breath and its like i forget everything!I got brain fog and I dont have energy at all,I'm so down and I feel so depressed!.....but when I swicth back with sandoz , everything is normal again!
I was ready to just die after 3 yrs on Levothoroxine thank goodness I switched to Armour 🙏 started getting better within first week
Glad you are feeling better!
Thank you 😊 Armour saved my life ☺️
Thyroidectomy after thyroid cancer 26 years ago. Life has never been decent since.
Now after breast cancer in 2020, followed by surgery and radiation, chemo before and after the surgery, and at the same time as radiation, and thyroid medication being decreased, increased, decreased, increased and so on, life is even madder than before. So over it all! Maybe I will give the 50mcgm tablet a go, the one without additives. These days I don't know if it's the Levothyroxine dosage, or still the side effects from chemo, which causes the constant fatigue.