Do I actually like Synthroid? (Advice after treating hundreds of thyroid patients)

Do I actually like Synthroid? Yes, and no. There is a place for Synthroid but there are MUCH better alternatives out there for treating low thyroid and hypothyroidism. So, the question: Do I like Synthroid? The answer is yes! Synthroid (and levothyroxine) still have a lot of value even though many patients don't necessarily do well on them. Before you call me a pharmaceutical shill, realize that we need to be even-handed in our discussion of thyroid medications. There ARE some people who do well on Synthroid (even if they are the minority). Why don’t people like Synthroid? #1. Their dose is probably not right (they are taking too little) You can push up free T3 and total T3 by increasing your dose. But if you dose based on your TSH you will almost always be underdosed. #2. It’s one of the most widely prescribed medications in the world People have had bad experiences on it #3. Doctors are often dismissive of concerns over Synthroid Do you have to change thyroid medications to feel better? Not necessarily. In fact, there are minor changes you can make to feel better very quickly. Some patients do VERY well on T4 only (these patients include those who are super converters). Some people have no problem taking T4 and turning it directly into T3. What should you do if you are on levo/Synthroid and not feeling better? #1. Dose based upon your T4/T3 and reverse T3 level (NOT your TSH) #2. Switch to a different brand of T4. #3. If you are Synthroid try levothyroxine. #4. If you are on levothyroxine try Synthroid. #4. If you’ve tried both then switch to Tirosint or Tirosint-sol. #5. Try the 50mcg tablet of Synthroid/levo and dose based on that Clean up your gut and diet. Take supplements to support thyroid function (see the list below). Download my free thyroid resources here (including hypothyroid symptoms checklist, the complete list of thyroid lab tests + optimal ranges, foods you should avoid if you have thyroid disease, and more): https://www.restartmed.com/start-here/ Recommended thyroid supplements to enhance thyroid function: Supplements that everyone with hypothyroidism needs: https://bit.ly/3tekPej Supplement bundle to help reverse Hashimoto's: https://bit.ly/3gSY9eJ Supplements for those without a thyroid and for those after RAI: https://bit.ly/3tb36nZ Supplements for active hyperthyroidism: https://bit.ly/3t70yHo See ALL of my specialized supplements including protein powders, thyroid supplements, and weight loss products here: https://www.restartmed.com/shop/ Want more from my blog? I have more than 400+ well-researched blog posts on thyroid management, hormone balancing, weight loss, and more. See all blog posts here: https://www.restartmed.com/blog/ Prefer to listen via podcast? Download all of my podcast episodes here: https://apple.co/3kNYTCS Disclaimer: Dr. Westin Childs received his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic medicine in 2013. His use of “doctor” or “Dr.” in relation to himself solely refers to that degree. Dr. Childs is no longer practicing medicine and does not hold an active medical license so he can focus on helping people through videos, blog posts, research, and supplement formulation. To read more about why he is no longer licensed please see this page: https://www.restartmed.com/what-happe... This video is for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. It should not be used to self-diagnose and it is not a substitute for a medical exam, treatment, diagnosis, prescription, or recommendation. It does not create a doctor-patient relationship between Dr. Childs and you. You should not make any changes to your medications or health regimens without first consulting a physician. If you have any questions please consult with your current primary care provider. Restart Medical LLC and Dr. Westin Childs are not liable or responsible for any advice, course of treatment, diagnosis, or any other information, services, or product you obtain through this website or video. #thyroid #hypothyroidism #hashimoto's