What Is Thyroid Medication?

Q: What Is Thyroid Medication?

Levothyroxine (T4) is standard. Desiccated thyroid and liothyronine (T3) are alternatives. Take on empty stomach.

Thyroid medication replaces missing hormones.

Types

Levothyroxine (T4) — standard
Desiccated thyroid — T4+T3
Liothyronine (T3)

How to Take

Empty stomach, 30-60 min before food
Water only
Separate from calcium/iron 4 hours

Monitoring

TSH 6-8 weeks after change
Every 6-12 months stable
More frequent in pregnancy

Source: American Thyroid Association, NLM MedlinePlus.

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