Armour Thyroid is a prescription medicine used to treat hypothyroidism (low thyroid hormone). Animal thyroid glands (usually those of pigs) are used to make this product. The thyroid gland normally produces thyroid hormone, which is replaced or increased by it.
Low thyroid hormone levels may occur naturally or due to radiation/medications or surgery that damages or removes the thyroid gland. It is critical to maintain normal mental and physical activity by having enough thyroid hormone. Children’s mental and physical development depends on having enough thyroid hormone. In addition to treating thyroid disorders (such as goiters and thyroid cancer), this medication is also used to test thyroid function.
It is possible to take Armour Thyroid alone or in combination with other medications (more information on the Drug Interactions tab). Consult your doctor first to discuss the medications you are currently on. This includes, over-the-counter drugs, herbal treatments and supplements.
Thyroid desiccated (Armour Thyroid) is a natural combination of thyroid hormones T3 and T4. Among their many functions, thyroid hormones regulate metabolism, body temperature, heart rate, and more. If your thyroid hormone levels are too low, thyroid replacement hormones can help.
Children younger than 6 months of age may not be able to take Armour Thyroid safely and effectively.
This medication is not insulin.
Uses
Thyroid hormone is used to treat underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism). It is a natural product made from animal thyroid glands (usually a pig’s). It replaces or provides more thyroid hormone, which is normally produced by the thyroid gland. Low thyroid hormone levels can occur naturally or when the thyroid gland is injured by radiation/medications or removed by surgery. Having enough thyroid hormone is important for maintaining normal mental and physical activity. In children, having enough thyroid hormone is important for normal mental and physical development.This medication is also used to treat other types of thyroid disorders (such as certain types of goiters, thyroid cancer) and also to test for thyroid function.This medication should not be used to treat infertility unless it is caused by low thyroid hormone levels.Older adults should discuss the risks and benefits of this medication with their doctor or pharmacist.
How to use Armour Thyroid
Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually once daily on an empty stomach, 30 minutes to 1 hour before breakfast.
Dosage is based on your medical condition, laboratory test results, and response to treatment. For children, the dosage is also based on age/weight.
Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day.
Do not stop taking this medication without first consulting with your doctor. Thyroid replacement treatment is usually taken for life.
Certain medications (cholestyramine, colestipol, colesevelam, antacids, sucralfate, simethicone, iron, sodium polystyrene sulfonate, calcium carbonate, orlistat) can decrease the amount of thyroid hormone that is absorbed by your body. If you are taking any of these drugs, separate them from this medication by at least 4 hours.
There are different brands of thyroid hormone available. Do not change brands without first consulting your doctor or pharmacist.
Symptoms of low thyroid hormone levels include tiredness, muscle aches, constipation, dry skin, weight gain, slow heartbeat, or sensitivity to cold. Tell your doctor if your condition gets worse or lasts after several weeks of taking this medication.
Side Effects
Hair loss may occur during the first few months of treatment. This effect is usually temporary as your body adjusts to this medication. If this effect lasts or gets worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if any of these unlikely but serious effects of high thyroid hormone levels occur: increased sweating, sensitivity to heat, mental/mood changes (such as nervousness, mood swings), tiredness, diarrhea, shaking (tremor), headache, shortness of breath.
Get medical help right away if any of these rare but serious effects of high thyroid hormone levels occur: chest pain, fast/pounding/irregular heartbeat, swelling hands/ankles/feet, seizures.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.