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Family Medicine (Expert Forum)
Question concerning thyroid medication
Answered by
Kevin Pho, MD - Internal Medicine
KevinMD.com
Questions in the Family Medicine forum are answered by Dr. J.M. Keyes. Topics covered include general health issues, adolescence, babies, child health, eating disorders, fitness, immunizations and vaccines, infectious diseases, medical tests and procedures, and senior health.
Question concerning thyroid medication
by giggs, Jan 10, 2005 12:00AM
Hello,
A few years ago I was diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and suboptimal hormone levels seem to be at the heart of the problem, especially adrenal and thyroid performance. Just recently I had a full spectrum of blood tests by a doctor that specializes in hormone supplementation. The tests confirmed sluggish adrenal activity and a higher than normal reverse t3 level. The doctor prescribed 10 mcg of Triiodo-l-Thyronine Sodium S.R., straight t3, with the idea of slowly increasing the dosage over time. I take it on an empty stomach first thing in the morning. I initially get a surge of energy from it, and for a brief time I feel like my old self, but after two hours my body seems to crash. I feel exhausted and weak; In addition, I have trouble concentrating and feel apathetic. Interestingly, I've had this same general reaction when I took over the counter supplements like Tyrosine and natural thyroid. I feel good initially and then crash. My question is, why am I having this reaction to the t3? Is this what a person goes through in the early stages of treatment or is my situation abnormal? Thanks for any answers you can give me.
A few years ago I was diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and suboptimal hormone levels seem to be at the heart of the problem, especially adrenal and thyroid performance. Just recently I had a full spectrum of blood tests by a doctor that specializes in hormone supplementation. The tests confirmed sluggish adrenal activity and a higher than normal reverse t3 level. The doctor prescribed 10 mcg of Triiodo-l-Thyronine Sodium S.R., straight t3, with the idea of slowly increasing the dosage over time. I take it on an empty stomach first thing in the morning. I initially get a surge of energy from it, and for a brief time I feel like my old self, but after two hours my body seems to crash. I feel exhausted and weak; In addition, I have trouble concentrating and feel apathetic. Interestingly, I've had this same general reaction when I took over the counter supplements like Tyrosine and natural thyroid. I feel good initially and then crash. My question is, why am I having this reaction to the t3? Is this what a person goes through in the early stages of treatment or is my situation abnormal? Thanks for any answers you can give me.
Doctor's Answer
by Kevin Pho, MD, Jan 11, 2005 12:00AM
, Jan 11, 2005 12:00AM
Different people are going to have different reactions to thyroid medications. Although generally they are safe, adverse reactions can happen. Here are a list of CNS effects that is from a Drug Reference textbook:
Central nervous system: Anxiety, emotional lability, fatigue, fever, headache, hyperactivity, insomnia, irritability, nervousness, pseudotumor cerebri (children), seizures (rare)
As you can see, things like hyperactivity and fatigue both can be side effects.
If the side effects become incapacitating, you may want to inquire about a different formulation of thyroid replacement.
Followup with your personal physician is essential.
This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.
Kevin, M.D.
Medical Weblog:
kevinmd_b
Central nervous system: Anxiety, emotional lability, fatigue, fever, headache, hyperactivity, insomnia, irritability, nervousness, pseudotumor cerebri (children), seizures (rare)
As you can see, things like hyperactivity and fatigue both can be side effects.
If the side effects become incapacitating, you may want to inquire about a different formulation of thyroid replacement.
Followup with your personal physician is essential.
This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.
Kevin, M.D.
Medical Weblog:
kevinmd_b
Member Comments
by Jsn, Apr 22, 2008 10:19AM
A related discussion, no thyroid- is T3 a good,viable treatment was started.
