When a thyroid is either underactive, nonfunctioning, or has been all or partly surgically removed, you may be hypothyroid. The diagnosis is made by your physician. Armour® Thyroid is one of several drugs available for the treatment of hypothyroidism and is also a naturally derived thyroid replacement containing both T4 and T3.
The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland that is located on your neck, in front of your windpipe.
The role of the thyroid gland is to produce thyroid hormones, including the two key hormones levothyroxine (T4) and L-triiodothyronine (T3). Each thyroid hormone contains iodine; the "3" and the "4" refer to the number of iodine molecules in each thyroid hormone molecule. These two hormones influence the body's metabolism as well as the function of many organs.
T3 is the more biologically active hormone, and it is thought to be the hormone that functions at the cellular level. Levothyroxine (T4) is converted to L-triiodothyronine (T3) in the body.
Levothyroxine products such as Synthroid contain a synthetic version of only the T4 hormone; levothyroxine tablets directly replenish the T4 that the thyroid gland fails to sufficiently produce and rely on the ability of the blood to convert it to T3. Armour Thyroid is a natural, porcine-derived thyroid replacement containing both T4 and T3. In this way, it supplements both the T4 and the T3.
Directions
The usual dosage for Armour Thyroid is one tablet daily, but you should always follow your doctor's instructions when taking this medicine.
Side Effects
Armour Thyroid may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- weight loss
- tremor
- headache
- upset stomach
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- stomach cramps
- nervousness
- irritability
- insomnia
- excessive sweating
- increased appetite
- fever
- changes in menstrual cycle
- sensitivity to heat
- temporary hair loss, particularly in children during the first month of therapy
If you experience either of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- chest pain (angina)
- rapid or irregular heartbeat or pulse
Storage
Store at controlled room temperature 59°-86°F (15°-30°C).
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