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Alani

Updated 1y ago

High TSH Levels Despite Taking Levothyroxine - Seeking Advice

Hi! I’ve been taking levothyroxine for a few years, and my TSH levels continue to be really high. About two months ago I learned that I can’t take levothyroxine with food or my iron supplement, so I completely changed the way I was taking it. I just got blood work done and my TSH levels are 18. I think they’re supposed to be around 4. I have an appointment with my endocrinologist in a few days. Has anyone else experienced this issue? Could it be that the medication just doesn’t work for me? Or…….? Any feedback is appreciated!

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JPanalyzes

2y

Hey there! I’m so sorry you’re having issues with your levothyroxine, as I was in the same boat when my PCP was managing my thyroid. I started to see an endocrinologist and she advised that the levothyroxine is not as effective as the name brand Synthroid due to the inconsistencies and fillers used in the generic. Are you taking Synthroid or the generic? There is a program called “Synthroid Direct” where the manufacturer sends you your meds directly at a lower cost than with or without insurance. I can’t stress the difference I felt I switched. Also- when you take your levothyroxine and other supplements, they need to be taken separately. The levothyroxine advises to wait 30 mins, but I always waited an hour or more before I eat or drink coffee. I’m taking a vitamin b prescription and I have to wait at least 4 hours after I take my Synthroid to take it, which was my endocrine’s direction. Taking supplements together with our medication is tricky and can cause issues if taken together at the same time. It interferes with absorption and effectiveness. Maybe try spacing them out if you haven’t?
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ColdinCalifornia

2y

I agree with what everyone has stated. What helped me was taking 2 pills that are the equivalent to 1 pill. I had problems with absorption. Usually when I am more consistent with my diet(AIP), my medication is also more effective.
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Alani

2y

Thank you all so much for the feedback! To answer some questions you had, I’ve been taking the levothyroxine by itself for 2 months. I started taking all my other meds at night and just levothyroxine in the morning. I wait at least 30 minutes before eating, but I do drink caffeine sooner than that, which I know is not ideal. I have heard that Synthroid can work better than the generic levothyroxine, which is what I’ve been taking. I see my endocrinologist tomorrow, so I’ll post an update. Wish me luck 🤞🏼
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Zippysloth

2y

I agree, too, with switching to Synthroid. My numbers were all over the place on Levo but leveled out and have stayed the same for years. I hope you get some answers.
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DizzyRay

2y

I had issues with Levithyroxine and Snythroid. So they switched me to Tirosint! Its been a game changer!!
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Musickel

2y

I’ve never heard of Tirosint, What is that
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DizzyRay

2y

Its a type of Levothyroxine that is made different that absorbs differently and it works a bit different. It has made my levels finally balance out!
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Seansky

2y

That’s funny because they told me the same thing. That my level was high too. So that makes me wonder.
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Seansky

2y

Are you still depressed Alani or are you seeing a counselor? Cause I know I’m seeing one now for a few issues that I’ve got going on at home.
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sherryberry

2y

Im new to this and am curious..what were your symptoms that led you to see a dr and have bloodwork done..i was tired all the time and found out its because of hypothyroidism and anemic..no iron in my storehouses in th tissies
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WendyGoLucky

2y

I usually take my meds about an hour before my usual wake up time (I’m usually up by 7am so I take it at 6) w/ LOTS of water. This way, I know I’ve given it an hour to process. Once I’m up, I drink more water, wait another 30 mins before eating a morning snack, and get ready for work. I’m not always the BEST at this, but it’s been helpful. When I started taking Levothyroxine, I was started on the usual 75mcg but didn’t follow that routine so after 2 weeks I was kicked up to 200. Once I started timing when I took what (6am Levothyroxine, 9am Adderall, 3pm vitamins & supplements) I started to go down. Try building a routine for when you take your meds that includes a “rest period” before eating anything.

The content in this post is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

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