weaning off of synthroid

[kimk53]

Is there a way to safely wean off of synthroid and/or jumpstart my thyroid again?

[stella5349]

I can't say one way or the other truly if Synthroid is still needed - If something else would be better - if you have normal natural function back - or???

I think the best thing really would be to talk to your doctor and get tracking labs to see if you can trial it to see where you are at when off it

Thyroid is linked to cardio - so if you have been on meds for sometime and suddenly jump off. You could do something else.

Also I think you may be off somewhat on what that doctor said.. Synthroid usually is a permanent resolution to low thyroid and the medication almost can suppress the function until the gland dies completely. Some people find changing their diets may help. Relieving stress and or a combination of things can make thyroid function better. Its all trial and error so make sure you read alot and speak to your doctor about what you can do safely

[Barb135]

Most likely you will be better off to stick with the med after all those years.  Synthroid is not so expensive, but maybe you can go to a generic T4 med, which would be even less.  I'm on generic levothyroxine -- costs me less than $4 for a 90 day supply.  Not sure if you have insurance that will help pay or not; I do, for the time being.

Once I knew taking thyroid hormone was something I would have to do for life, it became a "habit"; I never leave home over night without all the meds I will need for the next day(s) - thyroid med(s), bp med(s), etc.  I don't mind being dependent on the hormone(s), or other meds - they keep me alive and active, so it's worth the effort to make sure I take them daily, regardless of where I am.  

[kimk53]

Hi Stella!  Thanks for responding.  I've been on Synthroid for almost 20 years now for hypothyroidism.  I've always felt that my thyroid started to give out on me because I gave birth 3 times in 4 years back in my 30's.  Hormonal fluctuations, etc.  I distinctly remember my doctor in Alaska telling me at the time that he had successfully 'jump started' patients thyroid glands after using synthroid.  Unfortunately, I dont live in AK anymore and I think he has since retired anyway.  I just dont like being dependant on this medication and worrying if I miss a dose, or as has happened several times over the years,  I've forgotten to take it on vacation with me and have to go through all of the rigamarole in some tourist destination to get a carry over prescription.  As I get older, remembering and paying for all these meds is going to get more challenging, so thought I would see if getting off was an option.  The medication itself is a very low dose and I have no negative side effects.

[stella5349]

That's a hard call and getting off your meds may not be the answer at all.

Why are you wanting to do this?