To diagnose hypothyroidism, doctors may look at several blood tests to check thyroid function including a thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), T3 and T4 test. TSH is a hormone involved in maintaining thyroid equilibrium in the body. T3 and T4 are different types of thyroid hormone in the body. By looking at the results of the thyroid lab panel, the doctor can better determine the cause of the deficiency and what type of thyroid supplement may be most beneficial.

Many doctors prescribe Armour Thyroid (desiccated thyroid) to patients who have trouble making enough T3 in the body. They may also prefer desiccated thyroid because it is considered to be a ‘natural’ form of thyroid and is felt by many to be closer to human thyroid than synthetic thyroid formulations.

However, desiccated thyroid products are in high demand and typically out of stock from the manufacturer. Similar products to Armour Thyroid such as WesThroid and Nature-Throid  are out of stock too. Many doctors have been switching their patients to synthetic thyroid preparations like levothyroxine instead, however, many patients report they don’t feel as good using levothyroxine. This may be due to the fact that it does not contain T3.

If you are taking  a form of desiccated thyroid and find that your product is out of stock, you may need to switch to a synthetic product temporarily. You may suggest that your doctor change you to a combination of liothyronine (Cytomel, T3) and .levothyroxine (Synthroid, T4), at least temporarily until the  desiccated thyroid product becomes more available. It is NOT advisable to stop taking your thyroid supplement altogether as significant hypothyroidism can be hazardous to your health. As always, consult your doctor before making any changes to your thyroid medication regimen.