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Thyroid Cancer, Nodules & Hyperthyroidism (Expert Forum)
what does each of these meds do?
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.
what does each of these meds do?
by photochick, Mar 21, 2007 12:00AM
I have just been diagnosed with Hashimotos and put on two different medications. I have not sat down to formally research them as of yet, so I thought I would ask here first. I was put on synthroid (but got the generic levothyroxine) and also cytomel. I know a few other women who have the same disorder and are simply taking the synthroid. What does adding the cytomel do?? Also, on average, how long does it take to start
feeling "better"? I'm so cold that I can't even focus and the
weight gain of 13 pounds in 2 1/2 months (w/o changing eating habits) is really hurting as well. Thank you for any information.
feeling "better"? I'm so cold that I can't even focus and the
weight gain of 13 pounds in 2 1/2 months (w/o changing eating habits) is really hurting as well. Thank you for any information.
Doctor's Answer
by Mark Lupo, M.D., Mar 24, 2007 12:00AM
, Mar 24, 2007 12:00AM
Synthroid is T4 - the more stable thyroid hormone. Cytomel is T3 - a shorter acting, more potent thyroid hormone. When starting treatment for hypothyroidism, I use synthroid alone and consider adding cytomel in future for special circumstances -- most people do fine with synthroid alone.
Cytomel is Synthetic T3. Normally any form of T3 is giving when there is a T4/T3 conversion problem. Some take it claiming that they feel better but there has been no Medical Scientifics that prove this to be the case.
Length of time to feel better is an individual matter depending on your system. However, once your thyroid levels are stable at the range that you will feel your best, you should expect to start healing and feeling better. Although perhaps not to a 100%.
Weight is all our issue, whether hypo or hyper. This is an individual issue as well, depending on your systems reaction to all the body changes due to the thyroid condition, thyroid levels and healing, as well as other non related thyroid factors (age, menopause, etc.). I'd suggest finding a diet with a maintenance program that you can live with for live. The weight issues might have to be a life style change, I know it is for me.
GL
Hyper/Graves'/RAI