Thyroid medication...to take, or not to take?

Barbara2 · 02-06-2008, 03:33 PM

My family physician wants to see me next week to discuss the possibility of starting a low dose of thyroid medication. I saw him eariler this week (at my request) to discuss a number of things, one of which was my sluggish thyroid, which has been sluggish for about 4 years or so.

I cannot seem to lose the 20 pounds I gained while on herceptin (thankful for herceptin, tho'..) so we had a discussion about how sluggish the thyroid has to be before medication is started. For the last several years, my #s of the TSH were 4.5, 4.27 and 4.31.

I take 5 meds now, (Arimidex, Actonel, 2 blood pressure meds, and 1 cholesterol med)so adding more may not be such a good thing.

How thyroid meds might affect cancer would be an issue in itself. Any thoughts? Thanks...

BethC · 02-06-2008, 03:40 PM

Barbara,
My understanding of thyroid medicine is that it is the same hormone your body makes anyway, but you aren't making enough. I would think you would feel better if you had more of what you already are making. Hope you feel better soon!

Beth

Mary Anne in TX · 02-06-2008, 05:02 PM

I started thyroid meds a year ago and it has made such a difference, including losing the 20 lbs! I feel so much better and am not hungry all the time! Check it out anyway! ma

goops · 02-06-2008, 05:11 PM

I had my thyroid removed as a teenager and so I have to take thyroid replacement drugs. I think taking Thyroid medication would help balance the other hormones in your body - it would not only help you feel better but help keep you healthier.

dhealey · 02-06-2008, 06:22 PM

I have been on thryroid med for 2 years now, and it has made the world of difference in my energy level. If thyroid levels get to low it can affect your heart. It is worth trying.

Karen W · 02-06-2008, 06:33 PM

I have been on Synthroid for 14 years and I feel great.

Karen

goops · 02-06-2008, 07:06 PM

There is a book in which the doctor feels there is a link between breast cancer and an underactive thyroid. I purchased the book but it bored me to tears - it may however give you the re-assurances you need:

http://www.amazon.com/Breast-Cancer-...2349631&sr=8-2