High TSH and Antibodies

[MartyG]

I could use your help.  I'll try to keep this as short as possible.

Took Armour for 10 years, antibodies and peroxidase continued to rise.  Was doing 75 mgs (split into 3 doses) daily of Armour.  Dr. decided to try synthetic.  Tried Thyrolar, got digestive problems due to filler, so went to compounding.  

Am doing 24mcg T-4 twice daily, with 5mcg T-3 once daily (if I do more than that, end up with having to run to the bathroom.  Just got my levels back.  Here they are.

Free T-4    0.6         Range 0.8 - 1.8  

Free T-3     166       Range  230-420

TSH 79.44 (It was never this high not even when I was first diagnosed).  I have gained 6# in 2 weeks and am extremely tired.

Doctor said to take an additional  24mcg of T-4 daily.     I was wondering if adding 25mg of Armour might be more benefical then adding the T-4, and eliminating the T-3, but am not sure of mixing the meds.

I would appreciate any feedback and thoughts.  My doctor says by body needs time to adjust to the new medication.

Thanks.

Marty

[MartyG]

Would that increase antibody production and if not, what does cause antibodies to continue to rise and is it cause for concern.

Marty Gerace

[Mark Lupo, M.D.]

The armour is not likely to aggravate the immune system attack on the thyroid (hashi) - with the theoretical exception of attacking the pig thyroid proteins..

[MartyG]

I Hashi's, antibodies must mean something.......exactly what do they mean?  Is my immune constantly fighting my thyroid and could the Armour play a part in that?

Marty Gerace

[Mark Lupo, M.D.]

I have not had great luck w/ compounding -- would go bak to armour or use levothyroxine/cytomel combo if you feel the t3 has been that helpful -- else, just levothyroxine alone.  The antibody levels may rise despite therapy -- that is not the goal of replacement and these levels are not usually monitored -- TSH is the primary test.