weight gain and thyroid medicine

[AUNT_T]

What could be the cause of weight gain since starting on synthroid.  I have gained approx 20 lbs since I was put on Synthroid that has been about 5 month now.  I exercise and eat a low fat diet.  but the weight keeps coming.

Is there a link between weight gain and taking Thyroid meds.

Aunt_T

[Mark Lupo, M.D.]

There are some people who experience this and it is not clear why.  Usually it does not cause weight gain.  Also remember that most of the 66% of Americans who are overweight do not have a thyroid problem, so it may be a coincidence.   Talk to your doctor about options for thyroid replacement, but there are not many other than combination T4 / T3 (ie adding cytomel or changing to armour).

[nanticokecreek]

I can only sympathize with you. My Total Thyroidectomy was one year ago.  I have gained thirty pounds.  I wish someone had a solution.  I take 75 mcg of Levothyroxin daily.  It started out a year ago at 150 mcg.   Who can help us?  It's more than depressing to not have anything to wear.  I just can't keep buying clothes and I have stopped liking to go anywhere.................depressing the heck out of me!!!!!  HELP!!!!