T4 and T3-- Thyroxine and Triidothyronine

[Laurie20081974]

I have a question about treating hypothyroid. the status quo treatment is levothyroxine. However, I read some interesting new research stating that just T4 thyroxine is not enough and can actually be damaging. Research studies suggest that proper treatment for hypothyroid should follow a protocol that involves administering both synthetic T4 (Thyroxine) and T3 (Triidothyronine) simultaneously in combination. Is this a more productive and safe way to treat this condition?

My concern here is that my GP only has ever checked my TSH level. It was only after an argument with him that he agreed to check both my T3 and T4. I'm waiting for those tests results.

It just seems that general physicians do not know enough about endocrine function and then they argue with their patient when you try to tell them what they should be doing.

Thanks,

Laurie

[Mark Lupo, M.D.]

The studies on T4/T3 combination consistently conclude that it is not superior to T4 alone.  While the T4 and T3 levels are of interest to confirm that you are getting a reasonable amount of T3 from conversion from T4, my approach to this issue has been that if there are still "hypothyroid" symptoms w/ an optimal TSH (0.3-2.5) then a trial of combination is worthwhile.  I usually add cytomel 5mcg 2x/day and take away roughly 40mcg of the T4.

[Laurie20081974]

Thanks :)