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Thyroid Cancer, Nodules & Hyperthyroidism (Expert Forum)
Taking T3 only, not any T4
Answered by
Mark Lupo, M.D. - Thyroid Nodules, Thyroid Cancer, hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, Thyroid Ultrasound
Thyroid & Endocrine Center of Florida
Sarasota - FL
Questions in the Thyroid forum are answered by Mark Lupo, MD. Topics covered include Goiter, Graves Disease, Hyperthyroid, Parathyroid/Calcium Problems, Thyroid Cancer, Thyroid Nodules/Cysts, Thyroiditis, Thyroid & Pregnancy, Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH), Thyroid Tests, and Thyroid Surgery.
Taking T3 only, not any T4
by cmbajb, May 14, 2007 12:00AM
I am panhypopituitary. My thyroid labs over the past few years, only taking synthroid, have my FT4 at the top of the lab range and my FT3 at the bottom. My endocrinologist now has me taking extended-release T3 only. If I don't take any T4 medication, is there any other function of T4 that my body may now be missing?
Doctor's Answer
by Mark Lupo, M.D., May 16, 2007 12:00AM
, May 16, 2007 12:00AM
I have not had good luck with 'extended release' T3 - this is not FDA approved and can vary in quality depending upon the compounding pharmacy.
If I use T3 I combine cytomel (usually 5mcg in am and early afternoon) ALONG WITH T4 in the am.
There may be some direct effects of T4 that are important - more research is neede along these lines.
If I use T3 I combine cytomel (usually 5mcg in am and early afternoon) ALONG WITH T4 in the am.
There may be some direct effects of T4 that are important - more research is neede along these lines.
