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What the patients say about T3 supplementation and about Armour Thyroid
T3 Results - Condensed Version
- For space reasons, only the most relevant segments of each post
are included here. The segments are in context in the longer
document called "T3 Results."
- Some people have more than one entry because they focused on a
different aspect of how T3 affected them each time.
- Unless otherwise specified, all posts were posted to the
newsgroup alt.support.thyroid.
Definitions:
- T4 and T3 are thyroid hormones.
- Synthroid, Levoxyl and Thyroxine are synthetic T4.
- Cytomel (US and Canada) and Tertroxin (UK) are synthetic T3.
- Thyrolar is a synthetic T4/T3 combination.
- Armour (desiccated thyroid) is a natural T4/T3 combination.
___________________________________________
- "Earthbound Misfit i" January 22, 2001
the difference between my general anesthesia recovery period prior
to the addition of T3 was like night and day. I had surgeries
prior to T3, recovery was slow and sickening. Post T3, much
quicker and not as sick. in fact, after a recent surgery, I went
back to work one week earlier than scheduled. and of course, I
haven't found the med establishment would believe this.
_____________________
- "LuvARabbit" January 3, 2001
I was depressed for over 10 years...stared at the walls or slept,
and became a real "loner." I don't feel depressed since I've been
on armour thyroid a while (it has the T3 in it).
_____________________
- "Theresa" December 14, 2000
I've been on Armour for a little over six weeks. Gladly I sit here
and type that I've faced some serious moments these last 2 weeks
that I know if I'd still been on Synthroid I would have been a
complete basket case by now...I made it though these couple of
things with my chin held high 98% of the time and felt clear about
my feelings during both situations. I have still had some of those
moments where I can't complete a sentence or remember a name of
something very familiar.....but for the most part the fogginess is
disappearing as well as the depression. I'm still being regulated
and am looking forward to my next visit with the Dr.
_____________________
- "Arlyn Grant" December 14, 2000
For me, when the armour finally kicked in, I knew it immediately
because my head was clear. I felt like I could survive the
stressful situation that I was in. I was no longer a zombie. And
my 'edge' was back. But it took 6 weeks to start to feel better.
_____________________
- "Lucy (UK)" December 5, 2000
I asked my Dr for T3 after reading about it on this wonderful NG
and I felt much better in a few short weeks. I couldn't believe
the difference it made to how I felt.
_____________________
- <24028@my-deja.com> November 30, 2000
Armour made a lot of aches and pains go away for me. (Levoxyl did
not.)
_____________________
- "Lori" November 19, 2000
I too have a problem once a in awhile with talking. I have been on
Armour a month after switching from Synthroid. It is like night
and day. I feel so much better..
_____________________
- "John Fawcett" November 7, 2000
Adding T3 has made a huge difference and I would strongly
recommend it to any one who doesn't feel better with T4 only. I
had increased Synthroid to .200 and became Hyper but still was
tried all the time. This seems like a contradiction but I have
come to realize that my body was Hyper and I was mentally tired.
_____________________
- "ArubaCDM" September 28, 2000
Hey, I spent many years in synthetic hell. Since the change, I
live life, I have a sense of well being and even when the chips
are down, I can say I feel good -- and I'm menopausal, go figure.
When it came to the switch, I told my MD that I was willing to
except the responsibility of taking that dirty stuff. Guess
what.... he is now an Armour believer. There is hope for the
medical profession if they can get past the "drug detailers" and
propaganda.
_____________________
- "Nancy N" September 26, 2000
Here's an update. It has been almost a year since the last post I
had in the long list posted by Lois. I did get the Sr. Developer
job with the more than double salary increase that I was up for
when I posted that. I have since gotten a job as Training/Staff
Development Coordinator and Technology Help Desk Coordinator at a
University. I love my job and I know there is no way I could
handle this job without my Cytomel. I still feel great taking .125
Synthroid and 15-20 mcg Cytomel daily. I take the extra five mcg
Cytomel on days when I have an extremely stressful day, like if I
am teaching two classes and working on schedules for Help Desk
staff all at once. On average days I just take 15 mcg and that
works for me. It has been over two years now since starting the
Cytomel and have had no ill effects, in fact only feel human for
the first time that I can remember.
_____________________
- "Tracy" September 19, 2000
Before I was diagnosed, I had a lot of digestion problems and
hardly ate. I also had no energy past work, and slept when I came
home. However, after I was diagnosed, I was put on Levoxyl, just
enough to get me in the high normal range, and then I started
gaining weight. I still had a lot of tiredness, and had
hypoglycemia symptoms.
After my weight went over 200lbs. I sat up and said, "enough of
this, this just aint right" and started educating myself about it,
and not sitting back and taking it.
It's too soon to tell yet, but I was on Cytomel for 6 weeks before
that, and it did help a lot. I lost 3 pounds in 6 weeks without
exercising.
_____________________
- "Suchman" September 10, 2000
I started T3 therapy 8/22 and am feeling better. My next visit is
scheduled for 10/5. Dr. Zaidi is an Assistant Clinical Professor
at UCLA, and he has an office somewhere down there. He told me
that after reading the NEJM article he immediately began using T3
with his patients (with great success).
_____________________
- "Bob Globe" September 1, 2000
t3/t4 absolutely may be necessary, even if your blood tests are
normal. Mine were normal and I watched my afternoon fatigue and
sinus problems magically vanish when I started on Armour Thyroid.
Next doctor, please.....
_____________________
- "cheryl" September 1, 2000
I'm new to this board and noticed that the "T3" issue hasn't
changed much since I was fighting it a year ago. It makes me very
angry that docs don't do their homework after med school. I have
been taking T3 with my T4 now for a year and have never felt
better. Even with just the T4 I was still depressed, anxiety
attacks, weight gain, foggy head, tired, etc. The T3 immediately
cleared the foggy head and the other symptoms went away soon
after.
_____________________
- "Calvin and Elaine Long" August 26, 2000
I recently read about, and ask my Dr. to try cytomel. I felt
better within one hour of trying it. I forgot to take it the other
day and really noticed a difference. I was just taking synthroid
0.15 we backed it down to .125 and added the cytomel. it is great.
_____________________
- "Arlyn Graant" August 26, 2000
My endo did the same thing. She laughed at me for suggesting such
a ridiculous thing. But the joke was on her. I finally forced her
to put me on some sort of T3 - which was Armour, as she doesn't
believe in a synthetic T3. And six weeks later, I woke up a new
person. It hasn't fixed all the problems, but I am able to handle
so much more now than I could a year and a half ago.
_____________________
- "Stuart Harris" August 19, 2000
I no longer notice a rush when I take the T3 but I can tell that I
go from feeling kind of "fuzzy" to clear thinking about 10 or 15
minutes after taking my morning dose. I've tried not taking the T3
a couple of times just to see if it's really making a difference
but after an hour or two I start feeling my old self (kind of
zombie like) so I go ahead an take it and BAM! a few minutes later
I feel "normal". Two months isn't very long but so far it
continues to make a huge difference for me.
_____________________
- "Stuart Harris" July 27, 2000
I had a similar problem and when I finally got to an endo I asked
for a testosterone test. He didn't do one but he did give me some
cytomel and it completely 'cured' the problem. It's only been a
month but my sex drive is better than it has been in a very long
time. There could be many root causes but the lack of T3 is
sufficient to kill your libido.
_____________________
- "Valerie T" July 27, 2000
Hi, I just moved, left an X that called me fat & lazy, convinced
my DR after 10 long years of begging to switch me to Armour, and I
am beginning a FANTASTIC new life! Can you tell I feel wonderful?
I am finally losing weight, I just switched about 2 weeks ago, so
this is much better than I had anticipated, and the energy... like
dropping 20 years of old age!
_____________________
- "Lauri" July 5, 2000
There are some mornings when I wake up and my feet are painful and
hard to walk on. This happens more often in my fingers (although
almost gone since T3) where they are stiff and hard to bend in the
morning. I think the thing in my feet is the same sort of thing.
_____________________
- "Stuart Harris" June 28, 2000
Well, in spite of my misgivings I went ahead with the full dose of
25 mcg cytomel today plus 88 mcg of levoxyl. Felt great until
about 7:00. Four people complimented me on my clothes which were
not new . . . makes me suspect they could tell that I looked
better and focused on the clothes since they didn't want to say
"wow - you're awake". I found that I was laughing more, was more
social, and was able to spend less time trying to follow the ideas
of others and contribute more ideas of my own. No signs at all of
going hyper - I can hardly wait until day three.
_____________________
- "Laura" June 7, 2000
We raised my synthroid to 100mcg and kept me on 10mcg of cytomel.
It took about two weeks, but I finally began feeling normal. My
blood work looks good now. Both Free T3 and T4 are in the normal
range except TSH is now suppressed, but I feel WONDERFUL.
Constipation, brain fog, dry skin, and cold intolerance is gone.
My blood pressure has even come down to really great levels. The
weight is even beginning to come off as well. Let me repeat
myself, I feel GREAT!
_____________________
- "Monica" May 6, 2000
I was put on T3 after my thyroidectomy and took 30mcg a day, 10mcg
three times a day. It made me feel great and much more alert and
full of energy than I had been with my own thyroid.
_____________________
- "Pat" April 29, 2000 (in an e-mail to Gail; posted with their
permission) Against her better judgement the doctor let me go on
5mcg cytomel twice a day. She said she didn't think it would make
a difference but she believes that a patient knows her body best.
(She's a new doctor and very understanding). I saw her a month
later, she had never seen me prior to the one visit when I was
complaining about everything. When I walked into the office she
said - Pat - don't even tell me - you look fantastic - I know the
cytomel works and you are staying on it!!! She couldn't believe
how much better I looked, how my personality was "up" instead of
down, I can now sleep, I am off ambien for sleeping, I've lost
weight and I'm just plain happy - again Thank you.
_____________________
- "IAmLesterBurnham" April 27, 2000
Before T3 (Only 150mcg T4) ... Low energy, poor memory,
significant brain fog, occasional mild/moderate depression.
After adding T3 (125mcg T4, 10mcg T3) ... More energy (but still
need more), cognitive skills improved, brain fog almost eliminated
immediately, little improvement in depression.
I'll take 3 out of 4 any day. New blood work in the next couple of
weeks. May need to increase T4 ??
_____________________
- "Kari" April 27, 2000
I took synthyroid for 15 years. Within 2 weeks of starting
amour thyroid I went from sleeping 10 hours a day with a nap to
sleeping 8 hours with no nap, colors seemed brighter, my mood was
happier and more alive, people were not having to finish my
sentences because I was forgetting words, I stop delegating work
to others (because now I had the energy to do it myself), I
stopped dreading outings because of worry of whether I would have
energy or not to attend, the only drawback I can think of is I
stopped reading so many books (I have energy for other
activities).
_____________________
- "AH" April 27, 2000
My tsh dropped drastically (it's much more responsive to t3) and
my moods, energy, and feelings of wellness improved significantly.
Depression was a symptom in my case - constant exhaustion left me
SOUR, quite frankly.
In the real world, with a real thyroid, the body puts out varying
amounts of t3 depending on what you need/call for, if you will.
It's a shame that we can't really replicate that because if I am
terribly stressed or physically taxed I burn right through the
stuff and run out of gas. On pure t4 this used to happen DAILY. On
a mix, it happens but somehow I'm able to cope with it.
Love my t3.
_____________________
- "Default User" March 16, 2000
My brain-fog lifted two hours after taking my first Cytomel. My
memory is recovering but still not back to the pre-Graves era, 3
years ago (3.5?). Several people I know have tried T-3 and
reported similar good results (4 out of 4). One of these ppl's
doc's scared her into believing T-3 WITH T-4 was dangerous. She
stopped taking T-3 and went back to her borderline "insanity". It
did not take her long to figure out the lack of T-3 was baaad
news. Another person's doc will not prescribe her T-3 "because the
TSH-level is fine". Nevermind her brainfog that vaporized two
hours after taking T-3. I'll think she will be changing doc's
soon.
_____________________
- "Terri M" March 7, 2000
I'm dumbstruck reading about your troubles getting your meds
switched. FWIW, my labs were in the normal range when my doctor
switched me to Thyrolar. Last weekend, we went to visit my
step-daughter. When we were over 100 miles down the road, I
realized I'd forgotten my Thyrolar. I debated about going back and
adding three+ hours to a 6-hour trip. Since my step-daughter is
hypothyroid, I decided to use her Synthroid. Each day of the
weekend, I needed an afternoon nap--I ran out of steam and
couldn't go on, just fell asleep. OK, I only took 112mcg of
Synthroid rather than 125 (I take 1-1/4 grains Thyrolar, which I'm
pretty sure is therapeutically equivalent to 125mcg Synthroid, but
STILL!!) I haven't needed an afternoon nap once since starting the
Thyrolar and I have no brain fog, and I've stopped gaining
weight--even lost 10#!. I gained 15# after starting Synthroid.
_____________________
- "John Riggs" March 3, 2000
I had quite a few of the problems you are describing up to the
point I started adding T3 to the mix. The sinuses cleared, the
vision improved, headaches went away, libido returned, cognitive
abilities improved, and sleep returned to normal. Those are just a
few of the things that improved by adding a relatively cheap pill.
_____________________
- "JW" February 27, 2000
I have grave's and had the RAI 4 years ago. I tried Synthroid for
2 and a half years and even with the proper levels in my test
still felt horrible. I have been on Armour/ 105 once a day for a
year and a half and feel great!!
_____________________
- "Andrea Dawn Martell" February 12, 2000
On my first week of desiccated thyroid, I was on my way to the
library. I looked up at the sky (it was dusk) and I could see all
these different colours of blue. I thought "Oh my good is this the
beauty I've missed".
_____________________
- "ElaineP" February 12, 2000
Before starting on T3 I was also concerned because there were
several people on this NG who started T3 recently, but no one had
long term experience with it. However, I decided that I had
nothing to lose, since the half-life is so short. All of it is out
of your system in a few days if you stop. It's a very personal
decision and only you can decide if you're comfortable with it.
In my own case I felt an immediate difference. I felt incredibly
better for about a week and a half. Then I settled down into just
feeling "normal". I have no brain fog at all. This was
demonstrated to me recently. I take two doses of 5mcg Cytomel. The
second dose is at 2 PM. This has worked very well for me. However,
I went to a party that lasted past my bedtime. At around 11 PM I
was getting upset with myself because I was having trouble finding
words. I wasn't more tired than anyone else at that hour, but
brain fog was setting in thick. The next day I realized that it
was because the Cytomel had worn off. I know that John will take
an extra Cytomel if his day is going to be rough. I'm thinking of
taking an extra one if I'm going to be up very late.
_____________________
- "HW" February 12, 2000
I have graves and was nuked 4 years ago. I was put on Synthroid
and for 2 years even with normal test results felt horrible. I
then talked them into trying me on Armour thyroid replacement and
after a little adjusting, felt like a human again.
_____________________
- "June O'Toole" February 11, 2000
I have been feeling much better. I am able to handle stress
easier, less brain fog and memory problems and overall more even
mood. I slept really well when I first started taking the Cytomel
but that has not been consistent, although I think overall I am
sleeping better than before taking it. I would definitely
recommend Cytomel. I think anyone whose thinking about taking it
should at least give it a try.
_____________________
- "Andrea Dawn Martell" February 6, 2000
I've been on it [desiccated thyroid] for about 10 days, and I'd
like to bless all of you. In 10 days, my eczema is almost gone, my
insomnia is gone and I'm sleeping deeper. In fact my restless leg
syndrome is less frequent and annoying. I've had acne since age 9
(about the same time some of my symptoms started showing). My acne
cleared up, but scarring and breakouts never stopped, well in 10
days my skin softer, and my pores are smaller. I have so much more
energy. I don't get tired til the evening when everyone else does.
Best of all, it's like my brain is back! I don't ever remember my
head feelings this clear even when I was teenager, long before my
diagnosis. I think perhaps I've been suffering with thyroid
disease a lot longer than I thought. As well, my emotions are more
balanced...and my hands are actually warm in some parts of the
day. So I am one happy 23 year old woman right now. If this is the
10th day of treatment, I can't wait to see the results of 20. :)
_____________________
- "Sonya" January 31, 2000
I would just like to tell everyone that I've been on the T-3 T-4
combination for 21 days and I'm feeling great. It has helped so
many of my symptoms and today was the 2nd. day that I didn't have
to have a nap. My muscle aches and bone pain are gone, the fatigue
is gone, dry skin is so much better, brain fog is so much
better, and I was having dizzy spells 2-3 times a day and I have
only had 1 in 21 days. I wish everyone could get there Dr.'s to
write it for them so they could feel better also. I haven't had
much body temperature change yet but hopefully that will go up so
I won't be so cold. Thanks for all the information so I could find
out about the T-3.
_____________________
- "Rosey" January 29, 2000
I started T3 almost a month ago. For the first two weeks, I really
didn't feel much of a difference. For the last two weeks, I have
been feeling better and better. I suppose it was a gradual change
from the start, but it took a while for me to have a clear feeling
that it was helping. Certainly there was no night and day
difference when I took the first pill!
_____________________
- "Jeanne & Pete McKenna" January 7, 2000
my story kind of ditto's Elaines... My doc is a GP, and at first
he balked, but he knows me pretty well and probably figured I'd
win out eventually ;) He congratulated me by saying I am one of
his most informed patients (and I thank all you kind folks on this
NG for that information) I would have to say that since I've been
taking a lower dosage of the T3 that he originally prescribed,
along with the reduced Synthroid I have not had any serious bouts
of depression -- in fact, I have stopped taking anti depressants
for the last 3 weeks. So, for me, this combo is definitely
working.
_____________________
- "ElaineP" December 24, 1999
It's funny that I didn't think of the blurry vision and dizziness
as thyroid related. It's amazing how quickly we forget pain. When
I was still very hypo I had balance problems. I was even falling
at strange times (not tripping over anything). As for the blurry
vision, I should have thought of that since I started on Cytomel
recently and one of the amazing results was that I found that my
vision was sharper. (I hadn't thought of my vision as blurry
before)
_____________________
- "Nancy Vanneste" December 20, 1999
I was doing "okay" for years on just Synthroid. Then I added
Cytomel after reading about it on this newsgroup. My life has
completely changed - so this is what it's like to go through life
awake.... I won't give up my Cytomel for anything.
_____________________
- "Marianna" December 12, 1999
I couldn't live without that 'extra 10%' of joy in my life.
I didn't like the brain fog. I didn't like being cold.
I LOVE taking the T3.
_____________________
- "db" December 11, 1999
Like many of you I have been through the wringer with this thyroid
crap.
With a new nodule on my already subtotally removed thyroid it's
hard to tell what will happen....but for the moment, and in the
recent past, I have felt great (or at least a great deal better).
all thanks to Cytomel.
ask for it. demand to try it. I only take 5 mcg a day, it's all I
can tolerate, apparently. but that 5 mcg helps tremendously!!
the point is for newcomers, it does get better. less than 6 months
ago, members of this group persuaded me not to jump off of a
bridge. glad I didn't now...so hang in there.
_____________________
- "Default User" December 7, 1999
back to life thanks to ppl who posted on this NG.
I feel 300% better hours after taking cytomel (it's all in my
head!)
brainfog is gone.
the lead in my limbs is gone.
My heart keeps ticking a bit fast though. I've to check up on the
adrenal glands.
My doctor had never heard of cytomel, but he prescribed it after c
hecking with the Physicians Desk Reference.
I'm glad I have cytomel now and pizzed that i didn't have it
earlier.
_____________________
- "Neville" December 7, 1999
My TSH was 0.06 a month ago and I was still hypo (brain fogged,
poor memory) on 175mcg T4. I already feel much better on 125mcg T4
and 5mcg+5mcg T3. My stomach/intestines feel more settled, my head
seems "clear" and memory is much improved. I assume that the
reduced T4 will have allowed my TSH to increase -I'll let the
group know when I retest in a few weeks.
One factor that doctors seem to look for is weight changes -
expecting that hyper causes weight reduction. Since changing to
T4/T3 I would say that I have lost some weight - but I put the
reason down to the settled stomach, loss of an urge to eat sugary
foods.
_____________________
- "Susan Fein" December 5, 1999
T3 was miraculous for me, and I'm not taking time released. Just 5
mcg 2X per day of Cytomel began to pull me out of a months long
hell after a week, and really back to good within 4-6 weeks.
I had gotten increasingly depressed on extreme low carbs, which
can prevent conversion of T4 to T3 in some people (and I've been
on the low end already for years), but I have to eat that way due
to other conditions.
When I was without the Cytomel for a day and a half, my mood
started to deteriorate and I became irritable and grouchy again.
_____________________
- "BT Landry" December 4, 1999
I convinced my doc to let my take Cytomel, and I felt WONDERFUL!
Maybe three times in the last two weeks I overshot my dose and
felt hyper, but usually I feel great. Before T3, my thyroid tests
have lately been consistently coming back normal (TSH close to 2
either way), but I was still in a fog all the time. It's gone now
for the first time in years! The only drawback is I still have
swings a couple times a day where I go hypo and get cold,
sluggish, and foggy. Then I know it's time to take another
Cytomel.
______________________
- "Jim Jenkins" December 1, 1999
I started taking "Timed Released T3" alone a month ago starting
dose 7.5 mcg twice a day and immediately felt better, after two
weeks I upped my dose to 15 mcg and feel absolutely great! like a
normal person again with absolutely no side affects, no highs or
lows, just normal (even mood) and my body temperature is rising
steadily as I improve every day. I had all the HYPO symptoms and a
very low body temperature (average 96.8). Previously a month of T4
therapy made me feel worse so I demanded the timed release T3 from
my doctor. As I understand the hypo symptoms and low body
temperature is an indication of a conversion problem from T4 to
T3, which explains why more T4 did not help me, just made me worse
(I needed more T3) Some people do well with a combination of T4 &
T3, depends upon your problem. If you have all the hypo symptoms
and a low body temperature and your all tests come back normal T3
could be the answer.
_____________________
- "ElaineP" November 30, 1999
I experienced a calming effect within hours of taking my first 5
mcg dose. (decreasing anxiety I didn't know I had?) In the first
week and a half I had some headaches, which I hear is common when
starting T3. After 2 weeks I feel better than I have in a long
time. No headaches. Just feeling normal. In the last few years
I've been worried that there really wasn't such a thing as feeling
normal, that I was expecting too much. I do feel a small crash in
the evening, but it's nothing like the old brain fogged, don't
make me move tiredness I used to feel. This could just be normal
end of day tiredness - it's been so long that I've felt this good
that I don't know what is normal or not. My next step is to ask my
doctor about time release Cytomel to see if it evens things out a
bit. I'm currently taking 5 mcg Cytomel twice a day in addition to
Levoxyl at a lower dose.
_____________________
- "ElaineP" November 26, 1999
Ok, I'll control myself this time and not go into a tirade about
doctors like yours, but it does get me sooooo angry. If I were you
I'd try the next town over, or the next. Don't give up, don't let
them win. You have a better life out there. Travel as far as you
need to. I started on T4/T3 last week and I can't tell you how
incredible the difference is. I've been on Synthroid alone for the
past 12 years and have never felt "normal". I've felt "better",
and "ok", but not normal like I do now. Last night (Thanksgiving)
while my relatives were saying it was time for a nap (after
dinner), I wasn't tired and couldn't understand why someone would
want a nap at 7pm. (How quickly one forgets!)
_____________________
- "David" November 23, 1999
After being on just Thyroxine for 8+ years I also switched to the
T4/T3 combination (Cytomel). My depression, brain fog, and
tiredness are gone. I'm back in the land of the living.
_____________________
- "Robin" November 23, 1999
I have been on T3 for about 4 months. Before I had been on
Synthroid for over a year with little relief from symptoms. I was
tired all the time and was turning into a balloon. I was in a
constant fog and extremely depressed. With a dosage of 5 mcg twice
a day added to a lower dosage of Synthroid, I've been able to
start functioning again. My color is better and I can think again.
I also am not depressed again. I even have enough energy to go to
the gym and exercise. The doctor says I need to give it another
couple of months but that I'm on the road to recovery. I still
suffer from fatigue in the afternoons. It has given me back my
life.
_____________________
- "Marianna" November 22, 1999
My story is this: 37 yr old female started taking T3 in February
99 and life has changed. Periods (blush) are regular (I spotted
for three years and had three gynae ops to no avail) I have not
had a sinus infection since I started taking T3 after suffering
from them for over 15 years and my energy level has improved. I am
also warmer and can think clearly. I take 150mcgs thyroxine and
10-20 mcgs of Tertroxin daily.
_____________________
- "Kristy Bloxham" November 22, 1999
I started taking Cytomel only (my T4 levels were normal) about 8
weeks ago. After suffering with brain fog, muscle pain, tiredness,
inability to concentrate, joint pain, and who knows what else; I
feel much better. I couldn't find T3 in a timed release formula so
I had my Dr. prescribe it in the 5 mcg. pills. I take these every
2-3 hours during the day. That has helped me an immense amount. I
did feel hyper for about 3 hours when I was on the 25 mcg. pills
once a day. Then about 7 at night I would crash hard. Now I am
doing better.
It feels so good to just feel good again. My only concern is that
my TSH levels went from 2.9 to .079. The Dr. dropped my dosage a
little bit but he didn't seem concerned. I don't know if I should
worry or not. At least I feel better.
_____________________
- "Magda" November 22, 1999
I had been on T4 for six months and feeling as bad as always, when
I started T3. In one week the muscle pain I had had for so long -
I used to think it was "fatigue", it was *pain* ! - disappeared,
and I was happily walking kilometres again without stopping "to
rest". I used to feel cold to the bones, but that was gone too.
These days I swear, I'd rather go without food, than without my
beloved T3 ! Luckily, it's so dirty cheap I don't risk hung pains
! ;-))
_____________________
br>
- "Sheryl" November 21, 1999
I was hypothyroid and on Synthroid from '92 to '98 when I got so
sick I could not function. Changed to Armour thyroid (has T3 and
T4) in '98 and am slowly getting my life back. My sister also did
not do well on just Synthroid and had to be switched to T3 and
T4 - then got better. Some people need both T3 and T4.
_____________________
- "Nancy Vanneste" November 20, 1999
I have felt more in control of my thyroid ups and downs with the
T3 added to my Synthroid. I now have a more consistent state of
feeling good, because if I have a day where I am a bit more tired
or start to feel some of that brain fog coming back, I take an
extra 3 mcg Cytomel in the afternoon. It has been a miracle for
me.
- "Nancy Vanneste" November 16, 1999
Adding Cytomel to my Synthroid has literally changed my life. I
feel better than I can ever remember feeling. I had my IQ tested
before and after the Cytomel and it went up twenty points. I now
have a programming job that I could never have handled before, and
am the top candidate for another job as senior programmer for
another company at more than twice the salary I was making one
year ago. My weight has stabilized at what is in my opinion about
ten pounds too much, but I'm comfortable with that...I was thirty
pounds heavier and according to my family, they could see the
weight "melt" off after starting the Cytomel. I now only need
about 7 hours sleep a night, compared to needing up to 12 hours
before. I have a much better attitude about life and am really
having fun with life now, for the first time in a very long time.
I actually didn't know it could be so good.
__________________________________________
T3 Results
- Non-relevant portions have been snipped to save space.
- Some people have more than one entry because they focused on a
different aspect of how T3 affected them each time.
Definitions:
- T4 and T3 are thyroid hormones.
- Synthroid, Levoxyl and Thyroxine are synthetic T4.
- Cytomel (US and Canada) and Tertroxin (UK) are synthetic T3.
- Thyrolar is a synthetic T4/T3 combination.
- Armour (desiccated thyroid) is a natural T4/T3 combination.
___________________________________________
From: tracym@pipeline.com
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: September 19, 2000
Subject: Re: Dr in Las Vegas
I did put on a lot of weight, but not in a short period of time.
Before I was diagnosed, I had a lot of digestion problems and
hardly ate. I also had no energy past work, and slept when I came
home. However, after I was diagnosed, I was put on Levoxyl, just
enough to get me in the high normal range, and then I started
gaining weight. I still had a lot of tiredness, and had
hypoglycemia symptoms.
After my weight went over 200lbs. I sat up and said, "enough of
this, this just aint right" and started educating myself about it,
and not sitting back and taking it.
It's too soon to tell yet, but I was on Cytomel for 6 weeks before
that, and it did help a lot. I lost 3 pounds in 6 weeks without
exercising.
Tracy
Melissa wrote:
>You say that you had been suffering hypothyroid symptoms for
years. Did you
>happen to put on an enormous amount of weight in a short period
of time? If
>so, are you finding that the Armour is having any effect? Or....
Is it
>still too early to tell? If I don't get some results from my docs
>realllllll soon, I'm going to give Dr. Kaplan a call! Always nice
(and,
>usually rare) to find a doc who actually listens!!! Take care!
________________________________________
From: "Suchman" suchmans@impulse.net
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: September 10, 2000
Subject: Re: Doc in Los Angeles?
You may want to check out Dr. Sarfraz Zaidi. I have seen him once
(so far) in his Thousand Oaks office. He really listened to me and
validated my feelings. I started T3 therapy 8/22 and am feeling
better. My next visit is scheduled for 10/5.
Dr. Zaidi is an Assistant Clinical Professor at UCLA, and he has
an office somewhere down there. He told me that after reading the
NEJM article he immediately began using T3 with his patients (with
great success).
Nancy
________________________________________
From: "Bob Globe" bobglobe@yahoo.com
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: September 1, 2000
Subject: Re: Results and a switch to T4/T3 protocol
t3/t4 absoulutely may be necessary, even if your blood tests are
normal. Mine were normal and I watched my afternoon fatigue and
sinus problems magically vanish when I started on Armour Thyroid.
Next doctor, please.....
___________________________________________
From: cherylmcde@my-deja.com
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: September 1, 2000
Subject: "The Thyroid Solution" by Ridha Arem, MD
I'm new to this board and noticed that the "T3" issue hasn't
changed much since I was fighting it a year ago. It makes me very
angry that docs don't do their homework after med school. I have
been taking T3 with my T4 now for a year and have never felt
better. Even with just the T4 I was still depressed, anxiety
attacks, weight gain, foggy head,
tired, etc. The T3 immediately cleared the foggy head and the
other symptoms went away soon after.
I had to fire those doctors who refused the T3 test! I finally
convinced one to order T4, free T3, and tsh. To do this I went
armed with message board testimonials of good results, article in
New England Medical Journal suggesting T3 therapy, and finally the
book "The Thyroid Solution" by Ridha Arem, MD. I even found that
T3 therapy is preferred for dogs with hypo. The book, the NEMJ
article, and the test are credible medical evidence. I had to
really push these loudly.
Even to the point of threatening to again go to another doctor.
My T3 test came back very low to my docs surprise. My tsh had been
normal for two years on synthroid. He kept telling me I was
depressed and needed paxil. BullSXXX!!!! I have read many message
boards and the symptoms, particularly the foggy head, are common
for those with low T3.
I now see an endo who supports me fully and listens to how I feel.
He believes that there is a small population of people who do need
the T3 therapy due to inability to properly process the T4 as
suggested in the book.
Also, in this book, T3 and/or antidepressants are also recommended
for those who do not show a T3 deficiency. I am not a fan of
antidepressants but was willing to take it if the T3 was normal.
There are no tests performed to measure chemical imbalances that
require antidepressant treatment; however, there is a test for T3.
Drawback of T4/T3 is I've lost over 20lbs and the dosage has
needed constant readjustment (I can live with this one!). Going
for a bloodtest today because I feel hyper again. I must mention
that the weight came off after starting "The Zone" diet and
excersize, but I would have never been able to participate in
these activities in the state of mind I was in before T3.
Even if you don't have a T3 problem, reading this book will help
you understand hypothyroidism much better.
I firmly believe that the truth is in the numbers! Arm yourself
with hard data and if you can't get your current doc to do the
complete thyroid panel, then find one who will. (I even considered
seeing a vet!)
My opinion,
cheryl
___________________________________________
From: "Calvin and Elaine Long" clong@iwl.net
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: August 26, 2000
Subject: Re: converting T4 to T3
I recently read about, and ask my Dr. to try cytomel. I felt
better
within one hour of trying it. I forgot to take it the other day
and
really noticed a diffrence. I was just taking synthroid 0.15 we
backed it down to .125 and added the cytomel. it is great.
Elaine
> I wonder if anybody could answer this question for me, I've been
taking T4
> now for approx 5 years in ever increasing amounts yet I never
feel
> completely well, I sometimes feel better than others but the
bottom line is
> I never feel like my old self, after discussing this with my
doctor I
> mentioned that perhaps I have a problem converting T4-T3, well
my Doc
> dismissed this instantly, said that nobody has this problem, and
if I am
> still unwell it must be something else or it's all in my mind. I
suppose my
> question is, does converting T4 to T3 really pose a problem for
some people
> and does the medical world recognise this.
>
> Thanks
> Mac
___________________________________________
From: "Arlyn Graant" arlynsg@mindspring.com
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: August 26, 2000
Subject: Re: converting T4 to T3
My endo did the same thing. She laughed at me for suggesting such
a ridiculous thing. But the joke was on her. I finally forced her
to put me on some sort of T3 - which was Armour, as she doesn't
believe in a synthetic T3. And six weeks later, I woke up a new
person. It hasn't fixed all the
problems, but I am able to handle so much more now than I could a
year and a half ago.
It has been shown that many people can not make the conversion
from T4 to T3. My opinion is that the T4 is synthetic. So it is
quite possible that my body didn't recognize it the way it should
have.
ar
(in response to Mac's post, copied in the above section)
___________________________________________
From: "Stuart Harris" stuartharris@home.com
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: August 19, 2000
Subject: Re: Cytomel becoming less effective over time?
I started Cytomel about eight weeks ago, I also noticed a big
impact at first which gradually diminished plus increasing fatigue
after a few days. I haven't had blood work yet but I suspect that
the T3 further suppressed my TSH resulting in an increased need
for levoxyl (contrary to conventional wisdom). At first I dropped
from .112 levoxyl to .088 and over the next couple of weeks I went
back to .100 then .112, and finally .125 before I started to feel
normal again. It's only been about two weeks since I got
everything straight but so far so good. I
no longer notice a rush when I take the T3 but I can tell that I
go from feeling kind of "fuzzy" to clear thinking about 10 or 15
minutes after taking my morning dose. I've tried not taking the T3
a couple of times just to see if it's really making a difference
but after an hour or two I start feeling my old self (kind of
zombie like) so I go ahead an take it and BAM! a few minutes later
I feel "normal". Two months isn't very long but so far it
continues to make a huge difference for me.
Regards,
Stuart
P.S. I found that too much Cytomel was counterproductive. My brain
became over stimulated and my mental faculties were dulled -
anything over 12.5 mcg Time release T3/day seems to cause this for
me.
___________________________________________
From: "Stuart Harris" stuartharris@home.com
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: July 27, 2000
Subject: Re: Libido gone
Sean
I had a similar problem and when I finally got to an endo I asked
for a testosterone test. He didn't do one but he did give me some
cytomel and it completely 'cured' the problem. It's only been a
month but my sex drive is better than it has been in a very long
time. There could be many root causes but the lack of T3 is
sufficient to kill your libido.
Good luck,
Stuart
"Sean E. Smith" wrote:
>
> Does anyone know of any supplements that can help with the lack
of libido?
___________________________________________
From: "Stuart Harris" stuartharris@home.com
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: July 27, 2000
Subject: Re: A visit to Mayo Clinic
Carol,
I was also on .125 mcg Levoxyl and my doctor at first refused to
add cytomel. He referred me to an endo who was willing to give it
a try since he had heard about the NEJM article. The endo started
me on .88 levoxyl + 25 cytomel. I told him that this was too much
but he asked me to give it a try so I did. I called after four
days and told him I had cut it to 12.5 cytomel because I was
totally hyper. Mental acuity went way up, but fatigue started
setting in late in the afternoon on the 88's. I bumped back up the
.125 levoxyl which felt great for about a
week but then I started going hyper again so I refilled my old .1
mg levoxyl script about a week ago and seem to be going well since
then. (I haven't had blood work but I feel great! - if anyone
tried to take away my T3 I'd break into the pharmacy to get
it!!!!!). This is higher than most people would have predicted,
I've basically substituted 12.5 mcg levoxyl for 12.5 mcg of
cytomel even though the cytomel is supposed
to be four times as strong. . . (The doctor did lab work before we
started this little experiment but I haven't gotten my hands on it
yet).
I guess I'm lucky because I was over prescribed on everything so I
feel pretty safe cutting back until if feels right. I'm not sure
if I can describe the subtleties of how it feels, but I believe I
can differentiate between hyper T3, hyper T4, hypo T3 and hypo T4.
I've been tweaking the T3/T4 doses until it feels right to me. In
a month or so I'll go back to the doctor so he can do his tests,
but I'm now responsible for finding the dosage of T3/T4 that works
for me and no doctor will ever again tell me what I can and cannot
have in this arena.
It does seem to take a few days to get used to the cytomel. I had
big swings the first few days going manic after taking a big dose
and then getting a headache as it wore off. I dissolve mine in
water and sip it through the day for now but I have some time
release on order.
I guess it can't help everyone but for me it was certainly worth
the effort to get the T3 . . . and would have been worth whatever
effort was necessary.
Good luck,
Stuart
C Macinga wrote:
> Thank you for your responses. I have an idea of how to work with
my
> doctor now. Anyone else have thoughts on the T3/T4 Protocol?
> Thank you, my friends,
> Carol M.
___________________________________________
From: "Arlyn Graant" arlynsg@mindspring.com
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: July 27, 2000
Subject: Re: A visit to Mayo Clinic
I tried for two years to get my endo to try Cytomel because I did
not feel well at all. I thought if I tried a T3 suppliment as well
as the Synthroid that I would feel better.
However, my endo was an idiot and refused to even try. Finally, I
pissed her off enough that she finally put me on Armour - because
she doesn't believe in synthetic T3. Six weeks later I was
beginning to feel as if she was right and I would never feel any
better. And then one morning I woke up
and the world had completely changed. The armour completely
changed my life. I still want to try upping my dosage a little to
see if that helps, but I am unable to find a doctor who is willing
to try.
ar
___________________________________________
From: "Valerie T" valharly@skyweb.net
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: July 27, 2000
Subject: Intro, Just switched to Armour
Hi, I just moved, left an X that called me fat & lazy, convinced
my DR after 10 long years of begging to switch me to Armour, and I
am beginning a FANTASTIC new life! Can you tell I feel wonderful?
I am finally losing weight, I just switched about 2 weeks ago, so
this is much better than I had anticipated, and the energy... like
dropping 20 years of old age! Hope to
gain some great tips from this forum.
___________________________________________
From: "Lauri" drottma1@tampabay.rr.com
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: July 5, 2000
Subject: Re: info please
There are some mornings when I wake up and my feet are painful and
hard to walk on. This happens more often in my fingers (although
almost gone since T3) where they are stiff and hard to bend in the
morning. I think the thing in my feet is
the same sort of thing.
Lauri in FL
___________________________________________
From: "Stuart Harris" stuartharris@home.com
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: June 28, 2000
Subject: Cytomel - day two
Well, in spite of my misgivings I went ahead with the full dose of
25 mcg cytomel today plus 88 mcg of levoxyl. Felt great until
about 7:00. Four people complimented me on my clothes which were
not new . . . makes me suspect they could tell that I looked
better and focused on the clothes since they didn't want to say
"wow - you're awake". I found that I was laughing more, was more
social, and was able to spend less time trying to follow the ideas
of others and contribute more ideas of my own. No signs at all of
going hyper - I can hardly wait until day three.
Stuart
___________________________________________
From: "Laura" xlosborn@prodigy.net
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: June 7, 2000
Subject: Re: T3 meds - dosage help needed
While on the 75 mcg of synthroid my blood test was normal for free
t4 and closer to zero for free t3 -(this is what allowed me to
convince the doctor to try cytomel). I mainly had constipation,
brain fog, dry skin, cold intolerance, weight gain, and my blood
pressure was higher than the doctors
like but low enough not to medicate.
The doc dropped my synthroid (T4) from 75mcg to 50mcg when he
added 10mcg of cytomel (T3). This was way too low. I started
getting really bad hypo symptoms within a week. I was among the
living dead. My skin was so dry it was cracking and bleeding.
Blood work with this dose was free T3 was still low and free T4
now dropped below normal.
We raised my synthroid back to 75mcg while keeping the 10mcg of
cytomel. I was still having hypo symptoms, but not as severe. My
free T3 levels finally reached low normal, but my free T4 levels
remained low.
We raised my synthroid to 100mcg and kept me on 10mcg of cytomel.
It took about two weeks, but I finally began feeling normal. My
blood work looks good now. Both Free T3 and T4 are in the normal
range except TSH is now suppressed, but I feel WONDERFUL.
Constipation, brain fog, dry skin, and
cold intolerance is gone. My blood pressure has even come down to
really great levels. The weight is even beginning to come off as
well. Let me repeat myself, I feel GREAT!
--
Laura
___________________________________________
From: monica.gray@virgin.net
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: May 6, 2000
Subject: Re: everyone on T-3 (Cytomel)
CTyler1072 wrote:
I am just wondering where everyone elses freeT-3 levels are
running. I am
finding that I have to have a level of at least 3.0 to feel
well.
Anything
below and I have the fatigue and muscle problems. Would like to
hear how others
are doing.
I was put on T3 after my thyroidectomy and took 30mcg a day, 10mcg
three times a day. It made me feel great and much more alert and
full of energy than I had been with my own thyroid. Unfortunately
I am off all thyroid hormone at the moment as I am awaiting an RAI
scan next
Friday.
Monica.
___________________________________________
From: "Pat" gpa@bestweb.net
To: foto lady gail
Sent: April 29, 2000
Subject: Re: Cytomel
Against her better judgement the doctor let me go on 5mcg cytomel
twice a day. She said she didn't think it would make a difference
but she believes that a patient knows her body best. (She's a new
doctor and very understanding). I saw her a month later, she had
never seen me prior to the one visit when I was complaining about
everything. When I walked into the office she said - Pat - don't
even tell me - you look fantastic - I know the cytomel works and
you are staying on it!!! She couldn't believe how much better I
looked, how my personality was "up" instead of down, I can now
sleep, I am off ambien for sleeping, I've lost weight and I'm just
plain
happy - again Thank you.
Pat
___________________________________________
From: "IAmLesterBurnham" sjah.eubanks@mciworld.com
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: April 27, 2000
Subject: Re: What Has Taking T3 Done For You?
My 2 cents worth.
Before T3 (Only 150mcg T4) ... Low energy, poor memory,
significant brain fog, occasional mild/moderate depression.
After adding T3 (125mcg T4, 10mcg T3) ... More energy (but still
need more), cognative skills improved, brain fog almost eliminated
immediately, little improvement in depression.
I'll take 3 out of 4 any day. New blood work in the next couple of
weeks. May need to increase T4 ??
___________________________________________
From: "Kari" klf@nospamfuse.net
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: April 27, 2000
Subject: Re: What Has Taking T3 Done For You?
I took synthyroid for 15 years. Within 2 weeks of starting
amourthyoird; I went from sleeping 10 hours a day with a nap
to sleeping 8 hours with no nap, colors seemed brighter, my
mood was happier and more alive, people were not having to
finish my sentences because I was forgetting words, I stop
delegating work to others (because now I had the energy to
do it myself), I stopped dreading outtings because of worry
of whether I would have energy or not to attend, the only
drawback I can think of is I stopped reading so many books
(I have energy for other activities).
Lab on Synthryoid
TSH 5.07 (normal .49-4.67)
Free T4 1.41 (normal 0.71-1.85)
Total Cholesterol 232 (normal under 200)
Labs on Amourthyroid
TSH 0.06 (normal 0.49-4.67)
T4 7.37 (normal 4.5-12.0)
T3 Uptake % 34.64 (normal 23-40)
T4I 4.8 (normal 3.1-8.7)
T7 2.6 (normal 1.1-5.3)
Total Cholesterol 170 (normal under 200)
My labs were out of the normal on synthyroid because when
the doctor would up my medicine I would get heart
palpitations. He, nor any of the other 4 doctors I seen
prior to him, ever thought of changing my medicine to a
different kind because everyone knows synthyroid is the best
(that was sarcasm).
With amourthyroid every value is normal but TSH.
Two things to note, with synthyroid my cholesterol was high,
with amourthyroid my cholesterol is normal. While diabetes
runs in my family, I was diagnosed with PCOS with insulin
resistance. My first lab results for insulin resistance
came back over 4 times normal value (86 with normal being
under 20). Through diet, exercise, and perhaps proper
treatment of my thyroid, my fasting insulin was 36 (normal
under 20). Still very bad, but a big improvement.
I have been on amourthyroid 17 months and would never switch back
to synthyroid or any just T4 medicine again.
Kari
___________________________________________
From: "AH" alyhu@hotmail.com
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: April 27, 2000
Subject: Re: What Has Taking T3 Done For You?
My tsh dropped drastically (it's much more responsive to t3) and
my moods, energy, and feelings of wellness improved significantly.
Depression was a symptom in my case - constant exhaustion left me
SOUR, quite frankly.
In the real world, with a real thyroid, the body puts out varying
amounts of t3 depending on what you need/call for, if you will.
It's a shame that we can't really replicate that because if I am
terribly stressed or physically taxed I burn right through the
stuff and run out of gas. On pure t4 this used to happen DAILY. On
a mix, it happens but somehow I'm able to cope
with it.
Love my t3.
--
Alyson
"Brian Dove" wrote:
I want to know for those of you who previously took T4 only and
are now taking T4 + T3, what did changing your meds do for you (what
symptoms were improved or eliminated) and how long did it take you to
notice results? Also if you recall what your lab values were before and
after that would be appreciated.
___________________________________________
From: "Default User" defaultUser@spam.com
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: March 16, 2000
Subject: Re: triiodo-L-thyroinine = T-3, a Brain Chemical
Read Ridah Arem's book "the thyroid solution". ( ~ $25 at Barnes &
Noble)
The Doc's don't have (most of them) any clue on T-3 dosage, and
combining it with T-4.
The makers of either T-3 and T-4 will not sponsor research
combining the two. Both occurs naturally in the body.
My friendly, but stupid doc, wanted me to take 1 - 3 25 microgram
Cytomel per day. ( approx equal to 300 - 750 micrograms of T-4) I
get heart palps at 50 ug T-4, I don't think I'd survive that dose.
I kept my below par dose of 50 ug T-4 and *added* a quarter of the
cytomel per day.
My TSH went from 12.5 to 2.5 with the addition of 6 ug per day.
T-3 occurs normally in the body, the harm is NOT taking it.
T-3 is 4 - 10 times more potent than T-4. The T-3 is a T-4
metabolite, about 50% of the T-4 does not get converted to the
usable T-3 form. Ridah states you may get PERMANENT brain damage
if you don't get enough T-3. I'll think I do. My brain-fog lifted
two hours after taking my first Cytomel. My
memory is recovering but still not back to the pre-Graves era, 3
years ago (3.5?). Several people I know have tried T-3 and
reported similar good results (4 out of 4). One of these ppl's
doc's scared her into believing T-3 WITH T-4 was dangerous. She
stopped taking T-3 and went back to her borderline "insanity". It
did not take her long to figure out the lack of
T-3 was baaad news. Another person's doc will not prescribe her
T-3 "because the TSH-level is fine". Nevermind her brainfog that
vaporized two hours after taking T-3. I'll think she will be
changing doc's soon.
________________________________________
From: "Terri M" zoomcity@ameritech.net
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: March 7, 2000
Subject: Re: ziger/Sonya"
I'm dumbstruck reading about your troubles getting your meds
switched. FWIW, my labs were in the normal range when my doctor
switched me to Thyrolar. Last weekend, we went to visit my
step-daughter. When we were over 100 miles down the road, I
realized I'd forgotten my Thyrolar. I debated about going back and
adding three+ hours to a 6-hour trip. Since my step-daughter is
hypothyroid, I decided to use her Synthroid. Each day of the
weekend, I needed an afternoon nap--I ran out of steam and
couldn't go on, just fell asleep. OK, I only took 112mcg of
Synthroid rather than 125 (I take 1-1/4 grains Thyrolar, which I'm
pretty sure is therapeutically
equivalent to 125mcg Synthroid, but STILL!!) I haven't needed an
afternoon nap once since starting the Thyrolar and I have no brain
fog, and I've stopped gaining weight--even lost 10#!. I gained 15#
after starting Synthroid.
___________________________________________
From: "John Riggs" johnri@worldnet.att.net
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: March 3, 2000
Subject: Re: Headaches & Hypo
I had quite a few of the problems you are describing up to the
point I started adding T3 to the mix. The sinuses cleared, the
vision improved, headaches went away, libido returned, cognitive
abilities improved, and sleep returned to normal. Those are just a
few of the things that improved by adding a relatively cheap pill.
I would much prefer to do that than have
someone play with my eyes with light for a lot of money. You might
want to inquire of your doctor if he would be up to trying it for
a month. I think you'd be ahead of the game and if it works great.
I have my doubts about flashing lights, however.
Well, that's my opinion, for what it's worth, but what do I know.
I'm not a doc and I don't try to play one of TV ( or the radio,
the back porch, on top of the fridge.....) 8-)
Pam pmcaninch@home.com wrote:
Hi! I Get those headaches as well. Mostly across my eyes and
sinuses and feel light headed - I am Hypo and thought it was that as well. I
also had my eyes checked just today and I went through a colour exam and
my vision is way off. Almost like I'm drunk or had one to many. I will be
starting "light therapy" on March 20th - 5 sessions - I believe I will be
in a quite dark room with lights flashing. I also have to do eye exercises.
I'm hoping this will bring some relief. I will let you know......
JOHN johntr@lineone.net wrote:
Does anyone else with hypothyroidism suffer with headaches,
they are like stress headaches I guess but I am not stressed about anything.
I have pains in the back of my head and down into my neck and shoulders. I
also have aching across my eyes and sinuses and feel slightly light
headed now and again. Is this a hypo symptom please
___________________________________________
From: JW deanprod@mylink.net
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: February 27, 2000
Subject: Re: (T3 + T4) vs Armour
I have grave's and had the RAI 4 years ago. I tried Synthroid for
2 and a half years and even with the proper levels in my test
still felt horrible. I have been on Armour/ 105 once a day for a
year and a half and feel great!!
___________________________________________
From: Andrea Dawn Martell el347@FreeNet.Carleton.CA
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: February 12, 2000
Subject: Re: Cytomel/T3 Question
"ElaineP" writes: It doesn't happen for everyone, but within a half hour of taking
my first dose I thought I was going crazy because colors were more vivid
and things looked sharper in general.
I can attest to this to a point. On my first week of desiccated
thyroid, I was on my way to the library. I looked up at the sky
(it was dusk) and I could see all these different colours of blue.
I thought "Oh my good is this the beauty I've missed".
--
Andrea Martell
___________________________________________
From: ElaineP elainep@prodigy.net
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: February 12, 2000
Subject: Re: Cytomel/T3 Question
Before starting on T3 I was also concerned because there were
several people on this NG who started T3 recently, but no one had
long term experience with it. However, I decided that I had
nothing to lose, since the half-life is so short. All of it is out
of your system in a few days if you stop. It's a very personal
decision and only you can decide if you're comfortable with it.
In my own case I felt an immediate difference. I felt incredibly
better for about a week and a half. Then I settled down into just
feeling "normal". I have no brain fog at all. This was
demonstrated to me recently. I take two doses of 5mcg Cytomel. The
second dose is at 2 PM. This has worked very well for me. However,
I went to a party that lasted past my bedtime. At around 11 PM I
was getting upset with myself because I was having trouble finding
words. I wasn't more tired than anyone else at that hour, but
brain fog was
setting in thick. The next day I realized that it was because the
Cytomel had worn off. I know that John will take an extra Cytomel
if his day is going to be rough. I'm thinking of taking an extra
one if I'm going to be up very late.
Elaine
___________________________________________
From: HW deanprod@mylink.net
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: February 12, 2000
Subject: Re: T3 for a long time and happy with it??
I have graves and was nuked 4 years ago. I was put on Synthroid
and for 2 years even with normal test results felt horrible. I
then talked them into trying me on Armour thyroid replacemnet and
after a little adjusting, felt like a human again.
___________________________________________
From: June O'Toole juneotoole@earthlink.net
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: February 11, 2000
Subject: Re: T3 for a long time and happy with it??
I've been taking cytomel since Thanksgiving. I went from .137
Levoxyl to .125 plus 25mcg Cytomel and after four weeks my levels
actually went down a little. they were a bit high on the .137. I
have been feeling much better. I am able to handle stress easier,
less brain fog and memory problems and overall more even mood. I
slept really well when I first started taking the Cytomel but that
has not been consistent, although I think overall I am sleeping
better than before taking it . I would definitely recommend
Cytomel. I think anyone whose thinking about taking it should at
least give it a try. June
"Debbie @]----->----" wrote:
I would LOVE to hear from anyone who has begun T3 in addition to
T4 and feeling better for an extended period of time. Can you tell us
how it made you feel better? Did it take awhile to get to a stable doseage?
What was wrong before you started it? What is better now? What form? -
extended release or Cytomel? Thanks so much! Debbie @}-->---
___________________________________________
From: Andrea Dawn Martell el347@FreeNet.Carleton.CA
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: February 6, 2000
Subject: After 10 days on "thyroid"(desiccated)
Dear Group,
I wanted to share some good news with you. As you know a couple
weeks ago I had another bad fatigue episode while working and
seriously thought of going to emergency because the medical system
was driving me crazy. Well, I had an old prescription for
desiccated thyroid (60mg) that I'd finally talked my gp into
giving me but was unable to get filled
because it was being taken off the market. This group told me it
was put back on and someone here directed me
to where I could get it in Ottawa. I've been on it for about 10
days, and I'd like to bless all of you. In 10 days, my eczema is
almost gone, my insomnia is gone and I'm sleeping deeper. In fact
my restless leg syndrome is less frequent and annoying. I've had
acne since age 9 (about the same time some of my
symptoms started showing). My acne cleared up, but scarring and
breakouts never stopped, well in 10 days my skin softer, and my
pores are smaller. I have so much more energy. I don't get tired
til the evening when everyone else does. Best of all, it's like my
brain is back! I don't ever remember my head feelings this clear
even when I was teenager, long before my
diagnosis. I think perhaps I've been suffering with thyroid
disease a lot longer than I thought. As well, my emotions are more
balanced...and my hands are actually warm in some parts of the
day. So I am one happy 23 year old woman right now. If this is the
10th day of treatment, I can't wait to see the results of 20. :)
Thank you all. Bless you.
___________________________________________
From: Sonya rionNOriSPAM@ev1.net.invalid
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: January 31, 2000
Subject: 21 Days of T-3 (update)
I would just like to tell everyone that I've been on the T-3
T-4 combination for 21 days and I'm feeling great. It has helped
so many of my symptoms and today was the 2nd. day that I didn't
have to have a nap. My muscle aches and bone pain are gone, the
fatigue is gone, dry skin is so much better, brain fog is so much
better, and I was having dizzy spells 2-3 times a day and I have
only had 1 in 21 days. I wish everyone could get there Dr.'s to
write it for them so they could feel better also. I haven't had
much body temperature change yet but hopefully that will go up so
I won't be so cold. Thanks for all the information so I could find
out about the T-3.
C-YA
Sonya
___________________________________________
From: "Rosey" tanniru@home.com
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: January 29, 2000
Subject: Re: How long for T3 to be noticeable?
I started T3 almost a month ago. For the first two weeks, I really
didn't feel much of a difference. For the last two weeks, I have
been feeling better and better. I suppose it was a gradual change
from the start, but it took a while for me to have a clear feeling
that it was helping. Certainly there was no night and day
difference when I took the first pill!
Rosey in MI
Vlm448 vlm448@aol.com I was curious as to how long before people have
noticed differences after starting the T3.
___________________________________________
From: Sonya rionNOriSPAM@ev1.net.invalid
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: January 17, 2000
Subject: Re: cytomel and hypo symptoms
Hi,
I just recently started the Cytomel 25mcg split in half and taken
2 times a day. I take the first dose at 6:00 a.m. with Synthroid
150 and 2nd dosage at 1:00. I've been taking the T-3 for a week
now and I feel great. My brain fog is much better, muscle pain is
gone and finally my body temperature was 98.6 yesterday for the
first time. For the last year I felt like total crud and finally
I'm feeling like my old self again and it's great. Good Luck!
C-YA
Sonya
___________________________________________
From: JW deanprod@mylink.net
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: January 16, 2000
Subject: Re: Graves and RAI
If you do not feel right when your levels are in the normal range,
you may want to try Armour thyroid instead of Synthroid. I tried
synthroid for 2 years and never felt right but once I got on the
Armour I was ok.
___________________________________________
From: Jeanne & Pete McKenna mckennap@erols.com
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: January 7, 2000
Subject: Re: T-4,T-3 Combo.
my story kind of ditto's Elaines... My doc is a GP, and at first
he balked, but he knows me pretty well and probably figured I'd
win out eventually ;) He congratulated me by saying I am one of
his most informed patients (and I thank all you kind folks on this
NG for that information) I would have to say that since I've been
taking a lower dosage of the T3 that he originally prescribed,
along with the reduced Synthroid I have not had any serious bouts
of depression -- in fact, I have stopped taking anti depressants
for the last 3 weeks. So, for me, this combo is definitely
working. Good health to all. Jeanne
ElaineP wrote: When I first asked my doctor about T4/T3 combo she said that it
would not be needed since my T3 levels were ok and therefore I didn't have a
conversion problem. She said that's what she used it for. On my next visit
I brought Arem's book and the NEJM article and explained that Dr. Arem
seems to use T3 whenever a patient still didn't feel well, and not necessarily
for conversion problems. The NEJM article also did not mention that
the subjects were controlled for T3 T4 labs. I offered to lend her the book.
(she declined) I asked if we could just try it. She said yes. I've
had such good success with it that I'm working on a letter to her thanking her
for letting me try it.
___________________________________________
From: ElaineP elainep@prodigy.net
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: December 24, 1999
Subject: Re: Need some advice !!!!
It's funny that I didn't think of the blurry vision and dizziness
as thyroid related. It's amazing how quickly we forget pain. When
I was still very hypo I had balance problems. I was even falling
at strange times (not tripping over anything). As for the blurry
vision, I should have thought of that since I started on Cytomel
recently and one of the amazing results was that I found that my
vision was sharper. (I hadn't thought of my vision as blurry
before)
Elaine
__________________________________________
From: Nancy Vanneste vanneste@uswest.net
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: December 20, 1999
Subject: Re: t4 to t3 how do you know
I was doing "okay" for years on just Synthroid. Then I added
Cytomel after reading about it on this newsgroup. My life has
completely changed - so this is what it's like to go through life
awake.... I won't give up my Cytomel for anything.
Nancy
msmullar@btclick.com wrote: Go by how you feel. B&B I couldn't live without that
'extra 10%' of joy in my life. I didn't like the brain fog. I didn't like being cold.
I LOVE taking the T3. Only you can decide. Kind regards Marianna
Gorgo geo@forcomm.net wrote: Hi I have been hypo for two yrs now . My readings are as
follows tsh--.086(endo wants it low) t4 1.31 t3 131 so how would I
know if I need to add t3? The only reason why I ask is because I still
have muscle aches and occasionally brain fog, I find it hard to get up in
the morning. However I do feel s0000 much better than before so going by my
tests what do you guys think? thanks Pschmetz
___________________________________________
From: db yourdb@hotmail.com
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: December 11, 1999
Subject: on a happy note
Like many of you I have been through the wringer with this thyroid
crap.
With a new nodule on my already subtotally removed thyroid it's
hard to tell what will happen....but for the moment, and in the
recent past, I have felt great (or at least a great deal better).
all thanks to Cytomel.
ask for it. demand to try it. I only take 5 mcg a day, it's all I
can
tolerate, apparently. but that 5 mcg helps tremendously!!
the point is for newcomers, it does get better. less than 6 months
ago, members of this group persuaded me not to jump off of a
bridge. glad I didn't now...so hang in there.
all the best and merry christmas!
db
___________________________________________
From: Default User defaultUser@spam.com
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: December 7, 1999
Subject: Re: Why I love T3
back to life thanks to ppl who posted on this NG.
I feel 300% better hours after taking cytomel (it's all in my
head!) .
brainfog is gone.
the lead in my limbs is gone.
My heart keeps ticking a bit fast though. I've to check up on the
adrenal glands.
My doctor had never heard of cytomel, but he prescribed it after
checking with the Physicians Desk Reference.
I'm glad I have cytomel now and pizzed that i didn't have it
earlier.
___________________________________________
From: ast@nospam.nevsoft.com
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: December 7, 1999
Subject: Re: Update [was: Feeling depressed and alone]
Sonja,
My TSH was 0.06 a month ago and I was still hypo (brain fogged,
poor memory) on 175mcg T4.
I already feel much better on 125mcg T4 and 5mcg+5mcg T3.
My stomach/intestines feel more settled, my head seems "clear" and
memory is much improved. I assume that the reduced T4 will have
allowed my TSH to increase - I'll let the group know when I retest
in a few weeks.
One factor that doctors seem to look for is weight changes -
expecting that hyper causes weight reduction. Since changing to
T4/T3 I would say that I have lost some weight - but
I put the reason down to the settled stomach, loss of an urge to
eat sugary foods. What does the stomach use its T4 excess for?
Storing fat? Anyone know?
Neville
Sonja Midtlien wrote:
I managed to get some of my results today and they say that my
TSH is 0,07(normal between 0,2 and 4,5) and TPO AS is more than 1000 (normal
is under 18). My TSH is probably the reason for my doctor to say I am hyper
now. But I still feel hypo. Sonja.
___________________________________________
From: Susan Fein sufein@aol.comnospam
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: December 5, 1999
Subject: Re: TR T3 and depression
T3 was miraculous for me, and I'm not taking time released. Just 5
mcg 2X per day of Cytomel began to pull me out of a months long
hell after a week, and really back to good within 4-6 weeks.
I had gotten increasingly depressed on extreme low carbs, which
can prevent conversion of T4 to T3 in some people (and I've been
on the low end already for years), but I have to eat that way due
to other conditions.
When I was without the Cytomel for a day and a half, my mood
started to deteriorate and I became irritable and grouchy again.
Susan
_______________________________________
From: BT Landry btSPAMNOTlandry@iname.com
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: December 4, 1999
Subject: Re: Time-released T3?
My doc said the same thing. She said there's no way to be sure of
the actual dosage (vs. claimed dosage), and showed me charts of
how much different drugs varied over their claimed concentration.
But here's the thing: yeah that could be a big problem with T4,
but with T3, who cares? Who even cares what the claimed dosage is?
You'll know in 12 hours if you need more or less for your next
dose, it's pretty much that simple. And so what if the potency
varies from bottle to bottle? You'll know in 12 hours if you need
more or less. If each pill in one bottle
varies dramatically, that could be a problem, but considering how
they are produced it's not likely.
I'm going to try to use this logic on her to let me order it.
BTW, I convinced my doc to let my take Cytomel, and I fell
WONDERFUL! Maybe three times in the last two weeks I overshot my
dose and felt hyper, but usually I feel great. Before T3, my
thyroid tests have lately been consistently coming back normal
(TSH close to 2 either way), but I was still
in a fog all the time. It's gone now for the first time in years!
The only drawback is I still have swings a couple times a day
where I go hypo and get cold, sluggish, and foggy. Then I know
it's time to take another Cytomel.
DAHoberg" wrote: Sorry for being nosey and putting a damper on things since it's
been awhile since I've been here, but I just had to say that in my opinion
going to a time release form of T3 *may* not be a good idea. I asked my endo
about this and he said there are no regulations involved in mixing this form of
replacement and therefore the patient wouldn't know what is being used as a
filler to make the time release form. In other words there would be no way of
knowing if whatever else is in there would be toxic to the liver or
kidneys. Again, I apologize for popping everyone's bubble here. )o:
Hugs, Kris
___________________________________________
From: Jim Jenkins
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: December 1, 1999
Subject: Re: Why I love T3
I started taking "Timed Released T3" alone a month ago starting
dose 7.5 mcg twice a day and immediately felt better, after two
weeks I upped my dose to 15 mcg and feel absolutely great! like a
normal person again with absolutely no side affects, no highs or
lows, just normal (even mood) and my body temperature is rising
steadily as I improve every day. I had all the HYPO symptoms and a
very low body temperature (average 96.8). Previously a month of T4
therapy made me feel worse so I demanded the timed release T3 from
my doctor. As I understand the hypo symptoms and low body
temperature is an indication of a conversion problem from T4 to
T3, which explains why more T4 did not help me, just made me worse
(I needed more T3) Some people do well with a combination of T4 &
T3, depends upon your problem. If you have all the hypo symptoms
and a low body temperature and your all tests come back normal T3
could be the answer.
The above is just my opinion and my personal experience, I'm not a
doctor "THANK HEAVENS"
Jim Jenkins
__________________________________________
From: ElaineP elainep@prodigy.net
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: November 30, 1999
Subject: Re: Why I love T3
Martin,
I experienced a calming effect within hours of taking my first 5
mcg dose. (decreasing anxiety I didn't know I had?) In the first
week and a half I had some headaches, which I hear is common when
starting T3. After 2 weeks I feel better than I have in a long
time. No headaches. Just feeling normal.
In the last few years I've been worried that there really wasn't
such a thing as feeling normal, that I was expecting too much. I
do feel a small crash in the evening, but it's nothing like the
old brain fogged, don't make me move tiredness I used to feel.
This could just be normal end of day tiredness - it's been so long
that I've felt this good that I don't know what is normal or not.
My next step is to ask my doctor about time release
Cytomel to see if it evens things out a bit. I'm currently taking
5 mcg Cytomel twice a day in addition to Levoxyl at a lower dose.
Elaine
Martin Spigelman wrote: How long did it take for you to experience the improvement after
you started taking the T3? Also, how much T3 do you take?
___________________________________________
From: ElaineP elainep@prodigy.net
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: November 26, 1999
Subject: Re: Shot down
Retanne,
Ok, I'll control myself this time and not go into a tirade about
doctors like yours, but it does get me sooooo angry. If I were you
I'd try the next town over, or the next. Don't give up, don't let
them win. You have a better life out there. Travel as far as you
need to. I started on T4/T3 last week and I can't tell you how
incredible the difference is. I've been on Synthroid alone for the
past 12 years and have never felt "normal". I've
felt "better", and "ok", but not normal like I do now. Last night
(Thanksgiving) while my relatives were saying it was time for a
nap (after dinner), I wasn't tired and couldn't understand why
someone would want a nap at 7pm. (How quickly one forgets!)
Lets win this one!
Elaine
snip
Well, after interviewing 14 doctors (almost the entire town), I
haven't found one that is agreeable to a trial with T4/T3. There are no
endocrinologists here. So...I give up! They win! Apparently,
THIS is my life. Retanne
___________________________________________
From: Brenda & David
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: November 23, 1999
Subject: Re: Why I love T3
After being on just Thyroxine for 8+ years I also switched to the
T4/T3 combination (Cytomel).
My depression, brain fog, and tiredness are gone. I'm back in the
land of the living.
David
___________________________________________
From: Robin pgaliley@brazosport.cc.tx.us
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: November 23, 1999
Subject: Re: Why I love T3
I have been on T3 for about 4 months. Before I had been on
Synthroid for over a year with little relief from symptoms. I was
tired all the time and was turning into a balloon. I was in a
constant fog and extremely depressed. With a dosage of 5 mcg twice
a day added to a lower dosage of Synthroid, I've been able to
start functioning again. My color is better
and I can think again. I also am not depressed again. I even have
enough energy to go to the gym and exercise. The doctor says I
need to give it another couple of months but that I'm on the road
to recovery. I still suffer from fatigue in the afternoons. It has
given me back my life.
Robin
___________________________________________
From: Marianna marianna@mcmail.com
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: November 22, 1999
Subject: Why I love T3
For those of you now successfully taking T3, it's time to let
other people know about it. Even if you've posted on this subject
before, please add your input.
My story is this: 37 yr old female started taking T3 in February
99 and life has changed. Periods (blush) are regular (I spotted
for three years and had three gynae ops to no avail) I have not
had a sinus infection since I started taking T3 after suffering
from them for over 15 years and my energy level has improved. I am
also warmer and can think clearly. I take 150mcgs thyroxine and
10-20 mcgs of Tertroxin daily.
___________________________________________
From: Kristy Bloxham kris@imageproducts.net
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: November 22, 1999
Subject: Re: Why I love T3
I started taking Cytomel only (my T4 levels were normal) about 8
weeks ago. After suffering with brain fog, muscle pain, tiredness,
inability to concentrate, joint pain, and who knows what else; I
feel much better. I couldn't find T3 in a timed release formula so
I had my Dr. prescribe it in the 5 mcg. pills. I take these every
2-3 hours during the day. That has
helped me an immense amount. I did feel hyper for about 3 hours
when I was on the 25 mcg. pills once a day. Then about 7 at night
I would crash hard. Now I am doing better.
It feels so good to just feel good again. My only concern is that
my TSH levels went from 2.9 to .079. The Dr. dropped my dosage a
little bit but he didn't seem concerned. I don't know if I should
worry or not. At least I feel better.
___________________________________________
From: Magda antigone@easynet.fr
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: November 22, 1999
Subject: Re: Why I love T3
Ok, I'll follow ! I had been on T4 for six months and feeling as
bad as always, when I started T3. In one week the muscle pain I
had had for so long - I used to think it was "fatigue", it was
*pain* ! - disappeared, and I was happily walking kilometres again
without stopping "to rest". I used to feel cold to the bones, but
that was gone too. These days I swear, I'd rather go without food,
than without my beloved T3 ! Luckily, it's so dirty cheap I don't
risk hung pains ! ;-))
___________________________________________
From: Susan E Barr sdoggett@f1n06.kent.edu
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: November 21, 1999
Subject: Re: Searching For Answers.
I was hypothyroid and on Synthroid from '92 to '98 when I got so
sick I could not function. Changed to Armour thyroid (has T3 and
T4) in '98 and am slowly getting my life back. My sister also did
not do well on just Synthroid and had to be switched to T3 and
T4 - then got better. Some people need both T3 and T4. At any
rate, it should not take a year to stabilize your TSH into the
normal range. You should probably insist on
one consultation with an endocrinologist - if only for a second
opinion.
Sheryl
Paul (pcfiller@net66.com) wrote:
(the same entry responded to by John Riggs in the last post here)
___________________________________________
From: Nancy Vanneste vanneste@uswest.net
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: November 20, 1999
Subject: Re: T-3/T-4 Help !!
I have felt more in control of my thyroid ups and downs with the
T3 added to my Synthroid. I now have a more consistent state of
feeling good, because if I have a day where I am a bit more tired
or start to feel some of that brain fog coming back, I take an
extra 3 mcg Cytomel in the afternoon. It has been a miracle for
me...I hope it works as well for you.
Nancy
___________________________________________
From: ElaineP elainep@prodigy.net
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: November 20, 1999
Subject: Re: T-3/T-4 Help !!
What good is the TSH test if it shows that you are "normal", but
feel awful? Conversely, what is the down side of feeling really
good, but having screwy TSH lab tests?
Elaine (who just convinced her doctor to try it and after only
four days is feeling like she rejoined the human race)
dhibst@earthlink.net wrote: Ok I have been to 3 different Doc's now armed to the teeth with
literature from this NG and have not been able to find a Doc willing to prescribe a
T3/T4 combo. Today I saw Dr Burch (endo Duke Medical ) and he told me that
once they put you on a T3 supplement your TSH test Becomes unreliable!!
Is this True (my gut says NOT) People I really need help!
Is there a Doc in North or South Carolina that deals with T3/T4
Hell is there a DOc anywhere in the Country you can recommend
!!!
I'm ready to fly anywhere!!
Me on synthroid almost 15 years and feel i'm going crazy trying
to find a good Doc
___________________________________________
From: Marianna marianna@mcmail.com
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: November 20, 1999
Subject: Re: Headaches & Hypothyroidism
Your headaches sound sinus-related. I had sinus problems until I
started adding in T3, (alternating 10-20mcgs daily) in England
it's called Tertroxin and in France it's called Cynomel and in the
US it's Called Cytomel. Along with my 150mcgs of thyroxine. This
changed my life.
I also put a drop of olive oil in each ear after a shower or bath.
I have not had a sinus infection for over nine months, and I feel
wonderful on it.
Kind regards
Marianna
Alyson and Eric Oberman wrote:
Hi All! I had RAI and am hypothyroid. My synthroid was just increased 6
weeks ago. I have been experiencing headaches every day. I also get
recurring sinus infections but I am not sure if the headaches are sinus or
thyroid related. Has anyone else experienced daily headaches?
Thanks for your help! Alyson
___________________________________________
From: Nancy Vanneste vanneste@uswest.net
Newsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: November 16, 1999
Subject: Re: Adding Cytomel!
Adding Cytomel to my Synthroid has literally changed my life. I
feel better than I can ever remember feeling. I had my IQ tested
before and after the Cytomel and it went up twenty points. I now
have a programming job that I could never have handled before, and
am the top candidate for another job as
senior programmer for another company at more than twice the
salary I was making one year ago. My weight has stabilized at what
is in my opinion about ten pounds too much, but I'm comfortable
with that...I was thirty pounds heavier and according to my
family, they could see the weight "melt" off
after starting the Cytomel. I now only need about 7 hours sleep a
night, compared to needing up to 12 hours before. I have a much
better attitude about life and am really having fun with life now,
for the first time in a very long time. I actually didn't know it
could be so good.
I was on Synthroid alone for about ten years before adding the
Cytomel...sure wish I hadn't gone so long without it. If only I
knew then what I know now....
Nancy
Paul wrote: I would be interested to know how this addition of Cytomel works
for those of you who are currently taking this medication along with
Synthroid.
___________________________________________
From: John Riggsewsgroups: alt.support.thyroid
Sent: November 16, 1999
Subject: Re: Searching For Answers.
Geeez, can I relate. It took adding Cytomel to make the
difference.
Paul wrote:
Hi. I am a 23 year old male who has been struggling with bringing
my hypothyroid status back to normal for almost 1.5 years now. My
initial TSH level was 73 and I had many of the symptoms of hypothyroidism.
This included hair loss, severe headaches, extreme fatigue, dry skin,
nausea secondary to GI reflux resulting from decreased GI motility,
forgetfulness, blunted emotions, and difficulty with concentrating along with
decreased mental acuity. I also experienced episodes of dizziness which
became rather frightening at times.
Since my original diagnosis, my doctor has tried adjusting the
dosage of synthroid numerous times in relation to my symptoms. Now the GI
symptoms have resolved along with the dry skin and hair loss (which has
since regrown) and my emotions are returning, but I still have trouble
with memory lapses, concentration and mental fogginess. At times, I
will also experience some levels of nervousness/jitteriness although this
seems to occur more frequently with changes in synthroid dosage.
I am currently reading Dr. Arem's book and recently discussed
with my doctor the option of including Cytomel or some other form of
synthetic T3 along with the synthroid, however, I still need to bring my TSH
levels to a consistently normal level before I could even consider including
the T3 supplement. My doctor does not think this will be necissary nor
does she feel that my condition warrants a consultation with an
endocrinologist. She has stated that bringing my symptoms under control should
only require fine tuning of the synthroid dosage once it stablizes within the
normal range.
Has anyone else experienced a TSH imbalance this severe? If so,
how longdid it take you to overcome the hypothyroid symptoms and to what
extent did you recover? While I am feeling somewhat better compared to a
year ago, I certainly do not feel like my normal self and am trying to find a
way to get my life back on track. Any insight or helpful thoughts on the
issue would be appreciated.
Forgive me if the following is redundant,,,,but after many years of
research,,,my friend, who was on it for 20 years,,and tried the
various thyroid products,,,nothing,,nothing ever will compare to
Proloid,,,I guess it has to do with the fact it has both t3 and
t4,,and it is not dessicated,,but just like getting the "whole"
natural thyroid gland from a "porcine" source!! Parke-Davis does not
carry it here in the U.S.,,but the best source for getting it is in
Chile! Lets band together and find a supplier!! You can e-mail if you
want me to explain more about Proloid,,even my friend Dolores,,doesn't
mind people(serious) calling her if they really want to know why
this(Proloid) worked,,and the rest,,just doesn't cut the mustard!(and
i'm being nice).I think Dr. Broda Barnes book,,"Hypothyroidism,,the
unsuspected illness",,would give insight as to what I am trying to
convey to everyone! Barnes did use Armour,,but at that time,,the
formula was similar to proloid,,through our research,,we have found
Armour has changed that formula a few times since then! Dr. Barnes
attributed many of our illnesses,,to low thyroid
function,,,subclinical in a lot of cases,,,which he has you do a home
test,,to see if you need to take thyroid hormone! If he is right,,and
I believe he was,,a lot of things like..heart
attacks,,cancer,,fatigue,,hair loss,,would have been prevented in
nearly all cases,,and some of these possibly reversed. No wonder they
got rid of it,oh,,it was not a moneymaker..your talking two or 3
dollars, for a hunderd tablets! Remember,,,you can't make money off a
"well" person! Sound skeptical??,,hmm,,you tell me,,it was on the tv
news the other day,,a local doctor here in Cleveland said that,
now,,there was a tie in between low thyroid and breast cancer,,as she
lost her beautiful daughter a few years ago,,and when she was
younger,,was on synthroid and had other types of thyroid treatment!
Hmm,,Dolores has been beating that into my head for years,,but you
know,,i'd go.,,sure,,your no doctor! But the evidence is pouring
in,,on all these diseases and hypothyroidism! Remember just a few
years ago when Doctors would say,,Save your money on
vitamins,,well,,the truth really was,,Save your money on Doctors! I
will repost my request after this letter,,sorry if i'm being
redundant,,but as you see,,this is extremely important! Thanks for listening...........Dave
C.