<< I checked out Nutri-Meds and was wondering how
to compare the dose of the dessicated thyroid to the
dose of Synthroid I take now. >>


I'm not familiar with the Nutri-Med product.  However,
Armour contains both T3 and T4 thyroid hormones, while
Synthroid contains only T4 in synthetic form. 100 mcg
of T4 = 1 grain (60 mg.) of Armour.

In order to determine correct dosages, you must know
your lab test results - not just TSH, but free T3 and
free T4 levels (note, T3 and T4 uptake are NOT the
same!). If you don't have information on your free T3
and T4, you need to request a test with those specific
categories.  If your doctor won't do it -- and many
doctors ignore these levels -- you can go to the
HealthCheck USA web site and order the comprehensive
thyroid panel if there is a participating lab in your
area. You don't need anything from a doctor to order
the test.

The more progressive doctors want to see Free T3 and
Free T4 levels in the upper two thirds of the normal
range.

Many doctors who prescribe Synthroid refuse to
consider alternatives such as Armour -- the most
common reason given is that it's "inconsistent in
potency" but Forrest Pharmaceuticals, mfg. of Armour
disputes this claim -- ironically, the reason the FDA
is requiring Synthroid to go thru the approval process
 (it was never FDA approved but "grandfathered" in) is
because of the numerous complaints the FDA has
received on Synthroid's inconsistent potency!

If your doctor won't consider alternatives, go to the
About Thyroid web site, to the "Top Docs" listings and
see if there's someone recommended in your area
(recommendations are made by other thyroid patients).


<< I'm assuming that the natural form is not as
potent, but I would like to know how to estimate
my dose other than just by trial and error. >>


Actually, Armour is thought to be more
potent/effective since it contains both T3 and T4. But
please don't try to make this switch on your own. Find
a doctor who will work with you, get the lab results,
and you can make a successful transition. Holistic
practitioners (MDs), naturopaths, etc. are more likely
to be open to the range of treatments available.



Lynda Bryson
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