levothyroxine medication

[Bib8]

I was just recently put on .25mg of levothyroxine for mild hypothyroidism and high antibodies. I was wondering how long it takes to start working.  If I continue to not feel any different, does that mean that I need a stronger dosage?

[lorrainejoan]

Be carefull with the levothyroxine. Please read my post on generic vs brand name. It can take a few weeks to really start feeling better but each day should be a little better then the last. Your Dr should recheck your labs in a few weeks. Good luck.

[Bib8]

Thanks for responding. I have my lab tests, but not with me at the moment.  I go back next week to re-check my blood.  Thanks again for your help :)

[Letterer]

25mcg is usually a starter dose to see how you respond to the meds. They should be retesting your levels in 6-8 weeks or so, make sure they test the FT4 and FT3 every time. Many Hashi's start to feel better with a TSH around 1 and the free Ts in the upper 1/3 of the lab range. You may or may not feel better at 25mcg, but it's a starting point. It takes time with each dose increase for your body to adjust and respond, and your doc is not going to want to go too fast and send you hyper.

If you want to post your labs and ranges, folks will be able to offer feedback. Also, you should get your Ferritin, Vit D and B12 checked, many of us have deficiencies in these areas and need supplementation.

One more thing you can do is start a daily log to track your symptoms so you'll be able to see cause and effect, it will help you gauge your progress. Read up on Hashi's, and learn to be patient.  :)  

Hope this helps!