What is the treatment for hypothyroidism?

[one1nala]

I am a 65 year old healthy women on methotrexate (4 x 2.5mg per week) along with  folic acid, calcium, fexofenadine and Zocor. 1988 my thyroid gland was removed and have been stable on Synthroid since until last year.  My doctor feels I should remain on Synthroid even though I am still hypothyroid.  See results below and please comment.
Thank you.
8/23/06, TSH = 0.8, dose of Synthroid = 100uIU/ml
2/21/07, TSH = 2.1, dose of Synthroid = 100uIU/ml
4/2/08,   TSH = 16.6, dose of Synthroid =100 uIU/ml.  Dose of Synthroid changed to 125uIU/ml on 4-7-08
6/13/08, TSH (GEN3) = 0.026  Dose of Synthroid decreased to 112uIU/ml on June 20, 2008.
9/8/08,   TSH (GEN3) = 0.063 Dr. recommends I continue with this dose for 1 year.

As a Clinical Lab Scientist for 40 years, I am still confused as to how effectively treat hypothyroidism.  What do you think?

[stella5349]

and a mercury therm is best.

Sorry - but based on TSH I don't see the hypothyroidism as issue. This may be why you are to remain on the Synthroid dosage you have.

Are you feeling OK?

What was the removal of the gland for?  That also has bearing on TSH labs and others if ThyCa was the issue.

[gimel]

Didn't your doctor run any other tests besides TSH?  If so, what were the actual results for those?  I can't believe (  well, maybe I do based on a lot of bad experiences for a lot of Forum members ) that your doctor would medicate you on TSH alone.  Do you have hypo t symptoms?  Suggest that you check your basal temperature also as a measure of metabolism/thyroid levels.  Basal temperature is checked in the armpit before getting out of bed.  Let the thermometer stabilize and check it for several days to get a good average reading.  The reported normal range is 97.6-98.2.