Armour Thyroid is a natural desiccated thyroid (NDT) medication used as an alternative to synthetic thyroid hormone replacement in individuals with hypothyroidism. It is derived from the dried thyroid glands of pigs and contains both T3 (liothyronine) and T4 (levothyroxine) hormones, which mimic the hormones produced by the human thyroid gland.
Dosing of Armour Thyroid is typically individualized based on lab values such as TSH, T3, and T4, along with other clinical considerations. It is not intended for self-diagnosis or self-adjustment. Thyroid hormone levels are usually monitored during therapy to help guide dosing, and may be reassessed periodically based on provider recommendations.
How To Use:
Armour Thyroid is generally taken once daily in the morning on an empty stomach, with a full glass of water. It is typically administered 30 to 60 minutes before eating. Patients are often advised to avoid calcium, iron, or antacids within 4 hours of taking this medication, as these may interfere with absorption.
Monitoring & Dosing:
Dosing is tailored to the individual based on serum thyroid levels (TSH, T3, T4) and clinical response
Thyroid levels should be reassessed at least once a year or more frequently when adjusting dose
Self-adjustment of dose is not advised
Warnings & Precautions:
Armour Thyroid is not indicated for weight loss or for use in individuals with normal thyroid function. Taking more than the prescribed amount may result in signs of excess thyroid hormone. Individuals who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medications that may affect thyroid function should discuss appropriate use with their healthcare provider.
Armour Thyroid can cause side effects, and some may be signs that the dose is too high. Common side effects may include temporary hair loss, insomnia, rash, tremors, abnormal heart rhythms, shortness of breath, chest pain, headache, nervousness, irritability, muscle weakness, increased appetite, weight loss, diarrhea, sweating or heat intolerance, fever, and changes in menstrual periods. Serious reactions may include thyroid hormone toxicity, cardiovascular symptoms, severe allergic reactions, and bone density loss with long-term over-replacement. Armour Thyroid should not be used for weight loss. Contact your provider right away for rapid or irregular heartbeat, chest pain, trouble breathing, severe nervousness, tremors, facial or throat swelling, severe rash, or other concerning symptoms.
This information should not be used to decide whether or not to take this medicine or any other medicine. Only a healthcare provider has the knowledge and training to decide which medicines are right for you. TelyRx does not endorse any medicine as safe, effective, or approved for treating any patient or health condition. This is only a limited summary of general information about the medicine’s uses from the patient education materials and is not intended to be comprehensive. This limited summary does NOT include all information about the possible uses, directions, warnings, precautions, interactions, adverse effects, or risks that may apply to this medicine. This information is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and does not replace information you may receive from your healthcare provider. For a more detailed summary of information about the risks and benefits of using this medicine, please review the entire patient education information you receive with the medication.