Ask the Nurse

I have had Hashimoto's disease for two years and many arthritic symptoms. Can I take Amour® (dessicated thyroid) even though my TSH is normal?


The signs and symptoms of Hashimoto's hypothyroidism are often non-specific and vague. Signs and symptoms include:

However, there are other causes of these common symptoms and you should see your physician for an evaluation. Some individuals have symptoms of underactive thyroid, despite having a normal TSH in that their body doesn’t convert T4 to active T3 in body tissues.

You may want to see a thyroid expert endocrinologist for a comprehensive thyroid testing, including TSH, T3 and T4. You may also want to be examined for any goiter or thyroid nodules. You may benefit from being on a thyroid medication such as Armour Thyroid (also known as dessicated thyroid) as it has both T4 and T3 from animal thyroid. There is a T3 only formulation called Cytomel® that could be added to your T4, if needed. T3 is more potent than T4, and has to be carefully prescribed..

Download our free Thyroid Conditions Treatment Guide for more information.

All My Best,
Speaking of Women’s Health Nurse

March 19, 2019 at 3:04pm