Download my free thyroid resources here (including hypothyroid symptoms checklist, the complete list of thyroid lab tests + optimal ranges, foods you should avoid if you have thyroid disease, and more): https://www.restartmed.com/start-here/
So, the question: Do I like Synthroid?
The answer is yes! Synthroid (and levothyroxine) still have a lot of value even though many patients don't necessarily do well on them.
Before you call me a pharmaceutical shill, realize that we need to be even-handed in our discussion of thyroid medications. There ARE some people who do well on Synthroid (even if they are the minority).
Why don’t people like Synthroid?
#1. Their dose is probably not right (they are taking too little)
You can push up free T3 and total T3 by increasing your dose. But if you dose based on your TSH you will almost always be underdosed.
#2. It’s one of the most widely prescribed medications in the world
People have had bad experiences on it
#3. Doctors are often dismissive of concerns over Synthroid
Do you have to change thyroid medications to feel better?
Not necessarily. In fact, there are minor changes you can make to feel better very quickly.
Some patients do VERY well on T4 only (these patients include those who are super converters). Some people have no problem taking T4 and turning it directly into T3.
What should you do if you are on levo/Synthroid and not feeling better?
#1. Dose based upon your T4/T3 and reverse T3 level (NOT your TSH)
#2. Switch to a different brand of T4.
#3. If you are Synthroid try levothyroxine.
#4. If you are on levothyroxine try Synthroid.
#4. If you’ve tried both then switch to Tirosint or Tirosint-sol.
#5. Try the 50mcg tablet of Synthroid/levo and dose based on that
Clean up your gut and diet.
Take supplements to support thyroid function (see the list below).
Recommended thyroid supplements to enhance thyroid function:
- For thyroid hormone production and conversion: https://www.restartmed.com/product/thyroid-adrenal-reset-complex/ + https://www.restartmed.com/product/t3-conversion-booster/
- For hair loss: https://www.restartmed.com/product/thyroid-hair-regrowth-complex/
- For weight management: https://www.restartmed.com/product/gut-bomb-350-billion/ + https://www.restartmed.com/product/functional-fuel-complete/
- For gut health: https://www.restartmed.com/product/ultra-biotic-x100/
- For energy and adrenal health: https://www.restartmed.com/product/thyroid-adrenal-reset-complex/ + https://www.restartmed.com/product/power-b-complex/
I'm Dr. Westin Childs and I focus on thyroid health, hormone balance, and weight loss. I write about thyroid disorders, weight loss, insulin resistance, estrogen/progesterone balance on my blog. I truly believe that hormone balance is the key to managing your weight, your mood and your quality of life which is why I'm so passionate about it.
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This video is not intended to be used as medical advice. If you have questions about your health please consult your physician or primary care provider. Dr. Westin Childs goes to great lengths to produce high-quality content but this is NOT a substitute for medical care.