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Do T4 Medications Actually Work? Who Should Use Them & Who Shouldn't

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This is video#8 in my thyroid beginner series and it's all about T4 thyroid medication.

T4 thyroid medications like Synthroid, Levothyroxine and Tirosint are among the most commonly prescribed thyroid medications but they don't always work.

But why don't they work?

Doctors make the assumption that your body will be able to convert T4 into T3 (to activate the hormone) at 100% efficiency. The problem is that we know, through genetic studies, that up to 15% of people struggle with this process.

Some people have SNP's which alter the function of deiodinase enzymes and therefore reduce this conversion process.

So why do Doctors still use them?

Because T4 medications have a long half-life and are considered to be very safe (fewer side effects) when compared to other medications. In addition, many doctors aren't comfortable or familiar with other thyroid medications.

Is all hope lost?

No, because you can still use some strategies to improve thyroid function in your body even if you are taking thyroid medication.

Use these 3 tips:

#1. Switch to a different type or brand of T4 medication. Switch from Synthroid to levothyroxine or from levothyroxine to Synthroid and so forth.
#2. Use thyroid medication in doses of 50mcg increments. The 50mcg tablet has fewer dyes and fillers when compared to other dosages of these medicines.
#3. Consider taking your thyroid medication at night. Taking your thyroid medication at night may increase your free thyroid hormones and help you feel better!

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/wha....t-happened-to-my-med

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

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