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Synthroid vs Levothyroxine Why These Medications are NOT The Same
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- čas přidán 30. 10. 2020
- Synthroid vs Levothyroxine: which is best? These two thyroid medications are NOT the same.
Levothyroxine is one of the most prescribed medications in the entire world. And while Synthroid isn't prescribed as often, it is still used frequently by patients with low thyroid conditions like hypothyroidism and Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
Most doctors and patients believe that these medications are interchangeable, but is it true? Not really.
Even though these medications contain the exact same active ingredient they are NOT the same.
Some people react better to levothyroxine and some react better so Synthroid but there's no way to know for sure if you will react well to one or the other without giving it a try.
Find out if you should consider making the switch here.
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): www.restartmed...
Recommended thyroid supplements to enhance thyroid function:
- Supplements that everyone with hypothyroidism needs: bit.ly/3tekPej
- Supplement bundle to help reverse Hashimoto's: bit.ly/3gSY9eJ
- Supplements for those without a thyroid and for those after RAI: bit.ly/3tb36nZ
- Supplements for active hyperthyroidism: bit.ly/3t70yHo
See ALL of my specialized supplements including protein powders, thyroid supplements, and weight loss products here:
www.restartmed...
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:
www.restartmed...
Prefer to listen via podcast? Download all of my podcast episodes here: 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: www.restartmed...
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
Are you taking levothyroxine or Synthroid? Is one working better for you? Let me know below!
Synthroid. Did my research and I switched from levo to synthroid amd feel so much better.
I was hyperthyroid during my teens and had partial thyroid operation
I was normal until I give birth 5 years later and turned to hypothyroid. I was prescribed Synthroid and was fine for years until it was switched levothyroxine and had to experiment with different mg's. I ended up with 112mg for awhile. Then I gained weight and develop diabetes. There were many changes since then. And now I am in 25mg levothyroxine and 5 mg liothyroxine. My provider had me take both but then I felt palpitations and I started alternating them by days which I have not told my health provider yet as I have not had an appointment.
@@carmentaira1148 yes I also take t3 with Synthroid. I also have palpitations but I have realised that they are for me due to underdosing not overdosing. Your t4 dose and t3 dose are very low. This may be the cause of your palpitations not because you take too much t3.
I took Synthroid for 40 years, no problem. Then I retired and went on Medicare. Medicare made it a tier 4 drug and the copay is astronomical. When I was on private employer insurance my copay was free! My doc had to put me on Levothyroxine. 😡
I take Levo. Due to the coating on the syntheoid, it takes longer to absorb versus the tablet powdery texture of Levo. My labs were only good when taking Levo
I was born without a thyroid so I have been on Synthroid my whole life. Recently swapped to Levothyroxine due to insurance not covering Synthroid anymore and the symptoms after taking Levo for 30 days really screwed me up. Insomnia, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, muscle cramps, missed period. I didn't realize how bad the symptoms would be from switching medications! If you do not have a functioning thyroid, please don't randomly switch meds. It WILL affect you and saving money isn't worth how bad you feel by switching. There is a difference, do not let your doctors or pharmacists tell you otherwise. Trust your body.
I had the same experience but thankfully am back on SYNTHROID!!
I break out in hives and am lethargic with the generic. It's poison.
I was born Hypo as well, Dr Started me on Synthroid of course but was switched to levothyroxine many years ago due to “insurance” companies. Well, I’m fifty-two now and have hit menopause, and discovered I’m also on Autism Spectrum. The medication is not working as well anymore! Problem is, I’m on SSDl, so I have Medicare and Medicaid. Is there any chance they’ll allow me to get Synthroid?? They recently changed the medication I took for Tachycardia, and new medication makes me incredibly tired! (More than Hypo Tired) I feel like they’re just giving me medication to “fix” problems caused by the improper thyroid medication! 😡
Levo does not work for me. I wish I could take it. Synthroid is so expensive
This video was exactly what I was looking for. I went through exactly what you mentioned in your video. Pharmacist disregarded Dr's Rx of Synthroid & replaced it with Levo. The side effects were NOT good & it took me awhile to figure out why I felt so horrible. I went to return the Levo & the Pharmacist told me that there was no difference (as you mentioned). I told her to take the Levo back because I was having a terrible reaction to it. She gave me the Synthroid (no charge). The first day I re-started, I felt back to myself again. Phew. 😅 I have had a long & frustrating road the last 30+ yrs with my Thyroid issues & went through many trial & error scenarios. I'm not feeling 100% yet but working on it. Thank you Dr. Childs for all your time & invaluable information. ✌
Thank you ,
1st time at age 58 yrs old and now 3 yrs of being dx
Hypothyroidism, feeling horrible, after having a messed up back fusion and catching Sepsis,
I survived but my thyroid made me worse after 8 weeks of Rocephin 2mg IV .
Ive begged my Dr to change my meds , finally went to a Endocrinologist, ( he wasnt helpful 1st visit )
Went back to primary dr , he switched me to synthoid 88 mcg
Samples .
Now I know why ....
As in 3 months my insurance will say Not paid for !!!
Well paying $712 a month for insurance my Dr will be written despense as written.
Thank you
Im praying this past 18 days of feeling better is the synthroid 88mcg .
New subscriber, truly appreciate your content.
Also changed to eating Keto/carnivore,
Have listened to Dr Ken Barry on utube ....
Mrs j
Montgomery County, Texas 🙏
After 20;years on generic . I am now paying for Synthroid. My generic dose had been .125 . Soon after taking the Synthroid I was reducing the strength, I took that as a sign it's working better . But then Doctor said how do you feel ? Any difference . I said no , so back to generic . Every 3 months blood work was different & dose going back up. Finally my husband suggested maybe the genetic were different manufactures . I checked & they were different manufacturers, yet the same dose . Husband ( retired pharmacist ) who in the past had said , there's no difference in Synthroid & generic , now says the generic has a range they can be in with the active ingredient . So that did it for me , I pay for the Synthroid . If I have to go thru all my savings , so be it . Abbot has a savings for those that can't afford it . I'm not in that income range yet. Everything is slowly improving .
I tried to switch from synthroid to level for 2 months. Immediately started feeling lethargic, foggy, depressed, gained weight rapidly with no diet change etc. Terrible!!!!
Switched back to synthroid and felt drastically better in the first week. Never again. Also now know I need a doc who specializes in this area. My doc said the 2 meds are exactly the same. That is totally incorrect, and had a big impact on my health.
Thanks so much for this terrific explanation.
According to a presentation at the annual meeting of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists in 2017, Synthroid was associated with significantly better thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) lab results than generic levothyroxine.👍
The test was done by Synthroid. I don't trust those results.
tsh is just one piece of information. What is unfortunate is that endocrinologists don't know as much as us thyroid patients who have been studying this for ten, twenty years.
I'll go head to head with any endocrinologist.
Feel much better on synthroid and gladly pay for three months worth . My insurance will only pay for generic.
Is genuine Synthroid available in Australia?
I made de switch from Euthyrox (levo) to Synthroid. I used to live in Kuwait and they didn't have Synthroid. It really made a difference!!! I started feeling better and even though I can't say the switch is the #1 reason why it got better (because I went GF, grains, legumes and refined sugar free, fixed Vitamins and minerals deficiencies, but I'm down 48 lbs and I am feeling energized :-)
I think every ones system is different the only way I can take Levo is in compound for and T3 SR. Levo make me weak, hot, all the time, I tried synthyroid but it was bad on me too, so it’s compound for me 🙏
Thank you so much for posting this. I had my Thyroid removed approximately 2 years ago and have been taking Levothyroxine. I just don't "feel up to par" so I am certainly going to discuss this with my Endocrinologist on my next visit.
I was on synthroid for 7 years the past year the pharmacy started giving me levothyroxine randomly. My t4 free went from being 0.8 for 7 years to 3.5 within that year. I feel horrible all the time. Im going to tell them to change it back. Im honestly mad they did that without asking me, its not the same.
So awful they just override the Doctor's orders?
Insurance coverage. I pay for mine and it's worth it.
I have been taking Levo 112mg for past 2 yrs my results are coming excellent but i know im not feeling good. I asked my dr to change my med from levo to Synthroid. I just got my Synthroid med today and hopping to feel better. My expectations are really high after watching your video..
Are you better?
Dr. Caplan (my former endocrinologist) told me years ago, that the generic, Levothyroxine, is 'just different enough' that it will throw off the labs when you do blood draws so always use the name brand whenever possible & ALWAYS check with your doctor whenever changing ANY thyroid medications. We do have thyroid issues in the family and I had a recurrence of thyroid cancer, resulting in a total thyroidectomy in 1982. I was born with a non-functioning thyroid, 3 surgeries & two bouts of thyroid cancer. It was our family practitioner that told me that prior to the early 70s, it wasn't standard/required to screen newborns for any thyroid issues unless there was a 'red flag' at birth, so there were many who fell through the cracks.
I requested to be placed on Armour Thyroid years ago. Just bc I hear to many issues with the generic. Will try to find the difference in it compared to regular synthroid. Never have looked anything up. Thank you doctor. Great info.
I have used Armour for a long time, my doctor switched me to Synthroid in the early 2000's. I did not like it and asked to switch back. Never have regretted it.
Levothyroxine does good for me. I feel horrible if I take Synthroid
Same here! I like Levothyroxin better
This video was so informative and I can relate to all the points you were discussing! I appreciate the thorough information and the way you broke it down to better understand it.
I’m currently taking 100mcg Synthroid, but it doesn’t seem to be doing anything for me. I was already planning on discussing the issue with my endo; this gave me more to discuss with him. Thank you!
I hope you give it time, at least 6 to 8 weeks to see even a slight improvement. Even before I felt better . My blood work was showing with Synthroid I needed a reduced dose .
Levothroxine is the active ingredient in synthroid. Synthroid is the original brand name. There are a number of different drug companies that make it. Some of them give it their own name like levoxyl. The main difference between the various formulas is the other ingredients. Some have lactose which will inhibit absorption if you have a problem with lactose. I don't know if any have gluten but if you have any trouble with wheat it might help to take one that is made in a gluten free facility. All this effects absorption of the actual thyroid hormone. It is also possible that some levothyroxine is not manufactured with such good quality control depending on where and how it is made. The bottom line is that it is sometimes difficult for some people to find the right one for them. All levothyroxine (generic) is not the same.
Thank you for answering something that has been plaguing me for years. The fillers are the problem!!!! I live in New Zealand and have been taking Eltroxin for years. Some years ago the fillers were changed in Eltroxin and many people got sick including myself. The doctors all said no it’s not your thyroid they only changed the fillers so it can’t be. I had ongoing problems and finally found that Canada had not changed the fillers. So I imported from Canada and all my problems disappeared. I still get Eltroxin from Canada at a cost of $100 for 3 months. I am thinking about trying synthroid (it’s the only other one subsidised in New Zealand $5 for 3 months) purely for cost. So thank you for the statement that the fillers can cause the problem. Are you able to tell me if the fillers in synthroid are similar to Eltroxin Canada. Thank you again for your very informative videos.
I have been taking thyroid meds as of 7years old to present.I am 60years old and have been switch back and forth from Levo to Synthroid all my life. Synthroid works better for me of corse. but still have symptoms of tiredness. I can wake up fine and in 2 hours I feel I haven't slept at all. Brain fog ,constipation, has been a problem all my life .I am back on Synthroid now and feel better but the only thing it helped was the swelling in my feet and ankles.I took cytomel T3 25 m small amount and had to get off it. my face got so thin I looked like the walking Dead. lab tests always come out different even if I don't take vitamins or do. Im a mess.I used to take armor thyroid years ago. which for me was the best of all. Im so tired of being a yo-yo pill taker. I am taking the Synthroid under my tongue in the mornings I feel better when I do.
I'm just so angry with doctors here in UK (well my doctor's) I've been on levo for 27 yrs (on 150mcg for 8/9yrs) as they WILL NOT listen and in my opinion have a closed mindset & won't change mine
Have you ever gone on the website ThyroidUK.com they have some very good information on that site and the site administrators are very very knowledgeable!
I had a thyroidectomy, one side due to cancer. My entire life changed to misery 1 1/2 year ago after putting me on Levothyroxine. After a year, and all my begging, my endo dr added T3. A month later after talking to my PCP, he said. Let's switch you to Armour. For one week thought I was feeling better, and then for the next three weeks, after being up for the day just a few hours, I was totally crashing until I went to bed. I went back to my Levo and T3 misery for three months. Starting tomorrow morning my endo dr is switching me to Synthroid
75 mcg without T3
My previous dosage on Levo was 25mcg.
Do you have any idea why she changed the dosage?
After listening to Dr. Bianco, I was brave enough to ask my endo dr to change my medication. I mentioned dr Bianco to her and she replied that she had just attended one of his seminars and she TOTALLY disagreed with him. HELP 😢
I’m currently thinking of switching from Levothyroxine to Synthyroid because I am not doing well on levothyroxine. I had a total thyroidectomy and I have experienced some of the symptoms you’ve mentioned. I will share how well I do after the switch. Thank you Dr. Childs.
My pharmacy thinks they're the same apparently. My current prescription is for Levothyroxin. I have blood work pending bc of side effects. I will ask my doctor. Thanks. ETA: I was supposed to be on Synthroid. 👍
I have taken both they definitely are not the same!! When I took Levothyroxine I felt horrible and my levels kept changing for over a year we could not figure it out. Then my doctor gave me samples of the Synthroid brand and within a week I felt so much better and after 6 weeks my levels were stable. So now I will only take Synthroid even though it is more expensive it definitely is worth it! Unless they have actually used both I don't feel they really understand the difference.
I’ve been taking synthroid since I was 7. I tried levo temporarily and felt horrible!
Hi! Hope you are doing well, May i ask. I assume you had been taken for 7 years, you must already find your right dose? how was your weight? Do you have issue with them after getting the right dose! Thank you in advance!
I had a new doctor give me Synthroid rather than the Levo I’ve been on for 15 years. I have had a complete 180 turn around in how I feel and function in a daily basis. I don’t need coffee or, on very bad days, 5 hour energy shots. I can just live. I can’t even believe it. Even my husband noticed and he doesn’t notice most. I will never let a doctor give me levo again.
Thank you for making this informative video!
I came here because my homeopathic doctor is trying to switch me from levothyroxine 50mcg to sinthroyd 75mcg but I was too hesitant to try it!!
I'll try to take it tomorrow morning and see what happens.
My body is very sensitive, I react to almost everything! Not a severe reaction that would kill me but maybe rash, irritation, anger, insomnia...
Let’s just start with I’m a pure mess~ no one educates anyone after having a complete thyroidectomy.. I have been juggling docs for years and still feel like I will never get straightened out!!! 🤦🏻♀️
Jana,
I feel for you - it is not a walk in the park! Wishing you the best and some peace and healing.
try going to a functional medicine doctor if you have one near you.
I’m allergic to both of them!!
Levo has three different types of medication. Yes the pharmacy does change the medication.
I take armor Thyroid medication
I take levothyroxine (t4) and cytomel (t3) and it works for me. I used to take just levo and didn’t get good results.
Me too!
What doses?
Just watched your video because my Synthroid prescription hasn’t gotten filled so I used my Levo generic. Day two I started feeling really spacey and forgetful. It’s driving me crazy. I’m thinking of going back to my armor until I can get the real Synthroid. The reason I’m switching away from armor is because I have an existing thyroid, and I tend to feel Palpitations a lot on armor. I have a feeling I make enough T3 without the additional.
Went from Westhroid ( no longer available) which I did fabulous on, to Armour, which I did fabulous on, until we suspect my body mounted attack against the fillers or porcine. Tried Levo and hated it, actually stopped taking it in between office visits and went back on the armour, due to heart palpitations and general unease. Now I am on Synthroid 100 mcg ( too high IMO) and 5 mcg T3 BID. Not happy on this combo either. Through all these changes, the worst symptom I have had is intermittent hair loss - not bad, just more noticeable after showering or brushing.
Reason I am not happy is the bouncing around of my labs. Increased TSH and lower T3 just a few weeks ago. Thankfully RT3 is okay. So something is off. I have faith in my doctor and he is open to making changes and does all the ‘right’ bloodwork. I have more BW in a month.
I supplement a lot - ridiculous amount actually, but I know it helps overall well being.
Next, will look for your video on Tirosint. Thanks for sharing valuable information.
Hi Dr Childs, Thank you for giving us the knowledge, so that we may consider switching. I live in the UK and have only ever been given Levo, even though I have seen doctors and endo over the years, (as still have symptoms, but am “in range”, - I have never been offered any other medication.
I lost my thyroid to cancer in 1991 and have run the gammit of dises of generic and my last dr said she likes tsh at 4. My oncologist said keep it close to 0. The pharmacist said it doesnt even matter what company makes it because its active ingredient is the same. I am still fighting to get a dr to switch. New dr coming in sept and will open the conversation back up. I would gladly pay the extra for brand if it works better.
What you didn't mention was the dose accuracy, I was told by one Dr the generic can vary +/- 20%. So for a 90 day supply you're stuck with whatever it is. Went to new endo and switched back to Synthroid.
Hi Dr. Childs, I've been taking levothyroxine along with armor thyroid for years but continue to have unstable TSH levels. You said there are better hypothyroid medications. Can you give me examples? I'm desperate. Thanks!
Hi. I need advice. I’ve been taking Levothyroxine .25 for 7 years and it works fine. Feel great. Well when I got last refill at Walmart. They gave me Euthyrox instead. They said that’s the generic one they use now. I read some bad reviews on it. And now I’m afraid to take it. Should I be concerned or call dr for new prescription?
Euthyrox is levothyroxine. it's just a brand name. But switching between brands generally isn't a good idea.
Hi.. Walmart did the same with me, gave me Euthyrox instead of Synthroid and my symptoms never improved. I took it for 7 weeks and I felt tired and exhausted the entire time, not any improvement in my symptoms. Euthyrox does not work at. Its probably the worst type of generic ever and now I just made switch to Synthroid, lets see how that goes
@@ramanrandhawa1152 yes exactly!! Dosent work. Terrible
my mom had issues & was on thyroid meds. She had tentacles grow from thyroid to brain. She had operation, to cut them. When I was pregnant first time, I developed a goiter. The doctor said couldn’t test till after baby was born. After the doctor, put me on Synthroid 150 mcg. To bring down the goiter. Later about a year he brought it down to 75mcg. I was on that most of my life. I am now 70. I movies to Mexico. I could not get Synthroid here. I was on lev. For 18 years. Later I didn’t feel good on it. I was tired. So I upped it to 100 mcg. I felt better but had a hard time sleeping. I did fine out that at Costcos I could get Synthroid. I started taking that. My doctor did test, told me that I now have Hashimoto’s disease. So he started doing test. Changing my micrograms of my T4 Synthroid, and he added a T3 pill. It took quite a few months with Tests for him to come out with the right combination of the T4 and the T3. He has me on 10mcg T3, + Synthroid ( 75mcg, 75 mcg, 50mcg.) I am not sure, it was the Doctor choose. I feel there is something wrong with it. I am tired & still have a hard time sleeping sometimes. I feel the t3 is too much. The interesting thing is the technician said to me that I should be ok on just the 75mcg. & not make changes.
tt &rai done for ptc in 2019,was given levothroxin 200,but was experiencing hyper symptoms &now dose reduced to 100&now my TSH level is.09& feeling better too
Is there a difference between Synthroid & Synthroid Sodium? Is it Synthroid Sodium another name for Levothyroxine?
I'm a 66-year-old female taking levothyroxine 50mcg. I really can't tell about how its working for me other than my labs are normal. I also have diabetes, high blood pressure, severe anemia, arthritis and stage 3 chronic kidney disease which make me feel like the symptoms that abnormal thyroid lab values would make you feel.
Thanks for this info. I've been watching your channel for awhile. I'm on my second time of having Graves Disease. My levels are normal on anti-thyroid meds, however, my white blood cell count is so low and after a truck load of tests, my doctors believe the anti-thyroid meds is what's causing it. Since I'm not comfortable with that (especially since I've been sick a lot this year), I'm contemplating surgery. Won't know the final decision until 2 weeks from now (repeat tests). So I've been doing a lot of research of what life will be like without a thyroid. I do believe I have an endocrinologist who will work with me (after cycling through four endocrinologists!). Actually, it's because of this channel that I didn't settle for an endocrinologist who wanted to cart me off right away to RAI or surgery. My current endo. has been very patient and kind with me and believes in using RAI or surgery as a last resort. It seems I'm at the end of my rope though due to the wbc complication, so all the info from this channel has been helpful and jives with the conversations I've had with my endo. Thanks again.
Hi Carolina! I was wondering how you were doing? Did you finally go into remission or did you decide on RAI or surgery? I had Graves disease and they had me on anti thyroid medication for 5 years before my blood work was coming back slightly abnormal, my doctor then decided it was time to make a decision, I chose RAI and have been on synthroid since. I have to be honest, I didn't have any side effects aside from gaining 25 lbs in the last 8 years of being on it. I think I'm having trouble converting T4 to T3 but no doctor will prescribe me T3 and I've been through 4 of them! I'm a bit frustrated... my new endo said that once the slow release T3 is FDA approved he is willing to give it a try. I hope the best for you!!! Natural thyroid function is best but unfortunately some of us don't have that choice.
@@starzthelimit3563 Hi there. Wow, a lot has happened with me since this post. I don't mind giving an update. I was on anti-thyroid meds. for about a year and a half (I think when I posted this, I was already well into this treatment). During that time, I felt pretty miserable. My stomach was in a lot of pain and anything I ate would give me a stomach ache, so my diet was pretty much rice, eggs, almond milk, bananas, and some veggies. My stomach just couldn't tolerate anything. The biggest thing for me was lack of sleep. My nose, eyes, and throat became very dry and because of this, I couldn't breathe at night (it's like I would choke because my throat was so dry), so I went a lot of months barely sleeping. It wasn't a way to live, so I finally decided to get surgery in December of last year. My surgeon was awesome. She was a high-volume surgeon who definitely knew what she was doing. The scar on my neck has been healing nicely and I've been on Synthroid (I couldn't really talk the first month and I had a rare side affect of my sense of taste changing, but thank god that went back to normal. Bananas still taste a bit odd to me though). I haven't gained weight at all, I still have a very low weight: 93 pounds. My WBC is still low. There's also a few other things I'm dealing with physically, but they were pre-existing before I had the surgery (Graves might have made those worse, who knows). Either way, I'm glad I got the surgery cause anti-thyroid meds. for me was no way to live - it wouldn't have been sustainable long term. It hasn't been a year since the surgery, so I'm still getting back on track. I will say, one thing that has shocked me: I had Graves for about 11 years. When I had the surgery, I felt like myself again, like something mentally shifted. I felt like how I was before I was diagnosed 11 years ago. I felt motivated to do things again. So despite some on-going issues, that's a really big win for me. I hope the best for you as well. Graves was a pain in my butt to deal with.
@@greendynasty1 That is great news!!! I'm so glad you've had such a positive experience!! It's always nice to hear other people's experiences since we are all so different.. Graves can be scary, especially if you go through thyroid storm like I did. I sometimes wonder if going with surgery would've been a better option for me. So glad you are feeling yourself again and thank you!!!
Eltroxin works great for me. Synthroid put me right back to low thyroid symptoms. It was an unexpected switch by the pharmacy. Due to their computer system so they said.
The initial picture before I clicked on it..I thought you had really long hair.. it was your chair.
My insurance won't cover synthroid. What works best out of all the generics?
I think you are the only person to answer to this question. Each person is different.
While I was in Romania I took Euthyrox without any problems, here I’ve had a good experience with levothyroxine, until 2 years ago when my labs started to fluctuate like crazy and I started to have all kinds of weird symptoms (bone and joints pain, rapid gain weight , headaches, very low pulse, fatigue). My doc increased my dosage from 88 to 125. In 1 week I was symptom free, my tsh went from 6.9 to 0.25 in 6 weeks ….. and they advised me to reduce my dose to 100/125 alternating them…. In 1 month I got sick again.
I think is worth to mention that levothyroxine 50mcg is white…. In case you have a reaction to coloring additives.
Euthyrox is completely white.
Syntroid is colored too.
I think you have to try for yourself.
Good luck!
I started Synthroid 3 weeks ago, but I gained weight. On levo I gain when a have a hashi flare… and every time is 15-20 lb (8-10kg) in 1-2 weeks. I don’t know what to do.
This video is very misleading. I don't like making a blanket statement of "they're not the same".
They chemically are the same, but there's additives and processes that made generic Levo and Synthroid slightly different, but still the same. He explains that, but with the overall theme of "they're two different, separate things.
It's like me saying "Would you like some water, or would you like some H20?"
I have toxic reaction to synthroid! I go absolutely nuts! I used Armour thyroid but it made me have hyperthyroidism symptoms because it gave me too much t3 and my t3 was fine. So i take levothyroxine and its just t4. I do fantastic on it! Thats just me....❤
I was under the impression that they were one in the same just different names. I take thyroid medication and both names are on the bottle. I am a disabled veteran and I get my thyroid medication from the VA.
My Dr. just switched me from Synthroid to Levo for cost reasons at my request. I’ve only been on it about a week and have noticed joint and muscle pain in my legs and feet. Normally I don’t have that. Could that be related to the switch?
Yes
2 years ago i got off of Levothyroxine for 3 months to see if i would still have side effects to my hashimotos. I did. I became tired and my LDL, nonHDL and my APO B became high. I resumed taking the Levlthyroxine and recently did a blood test to see my cholesterol levels even higher. I did try statins but bad reaction so i decided to switch from levothyroxine and try synthroid 5 days ago. Im getting headaches but my eyes feel better, no other symptoms. I will retest in 6 weeks. I am a 5year WFPB vegan btw. Do you think this move could lower my cholesterol?
What is your opinion on Armour thyroid? I prefer it to Synthroid and have been taking it for almost 40 years and it works well for me.
I got into a heated debate with my pharmacist over the levothrixine, which she said was same as synthroid. She showed me a bottle that said levo was synthroid. I had to get my doctor to write letter to company I have prescription coverage through. They insisted I take cheaper drug and only changed after two letters from doctor. I have been on synthroid for 50 years. It is only med that holds ts levels where they should be.
wow
I am taking synthroid because I reacted so negatively to levothyroxine. The levothyroine made my brain feel like glass and I could hardly speak. They put me on synthroid and it went really well. My tsh level was 100 and went down to normal in 3 months. But at first everytime I got my perscription it would be levothyroxine. It took 6 months for the pharmacy to stop switching it out
Thank you so much! I have Crohns and my T-4 is fine but T-3 too low. Just found out I should take my Levo all by itself. Was taking it with my Omeprazole. But after changing method if it’s still too low I’ll ask dr about going with Synthyroid. Cost seems worth it if I’m less fatigued.
😮oh my Lord I an lactose intolerant n hv been back n forth with these 2 meds 😢
Can levothyroxine cause hives?
Was on Levo and switched to Synthroid, about 2 years ago, Just made switch from Synthroid to levo, don’t know yet if I feel better…I was still tired and gained weight🤷♀️
I developed a goiter after giving birth to my 4th child. This was in 1977. I was put on natural hormone thyroid medication and then later put on synthroid. I was doing so much better. Then when levothyroxine came out I was switched over by my pharmacist. They said it's cheaper and it's just the same as synthroid. I want my doctor to switch my back to Synthroid. I've asked her, she's a different doctor then I started out with. I will pay for it . I don't know where to turn to get the help I need if she won't do it? Can I help?
Hi. Could you please advise:
I’m on 150 mcg Levothyroxine. My current test results are:
TSH 2.31
Free T4 1.29
I take it at night. Feel tired. Would love to lose 20 lbs.
What do you think? My GP would be open to your suggestion.
THANK YOU!
Hi there from NZ.
I was wondering if I would be better on levothyroxine. I am on synthroid and are having bad joint pain. I have had a total thyroidectomy last year .
My medication bottle says levothyroxine generic for. (Synthroid). I was told that there is generic levothyroxine (Synthroid) and tirosint generic for (Synthroid). So what the dickens? It depends on the insurance. Not feeling better
Sleep disturbance despite CPAP
Stuck at obese weight 209- 5’6”
Switched to paleo -two meals and a smoothie with only blueberries, avo, pea protein drink for dinner.
Fatigue
I’ve left a message on another video to provide a checklist. I’m asking my GP to switch me to a t3 and a T4 separate pills at October 18, 2021 office visit.
Lactose in fillers? My doc knows this. I’ve been lactose intolerant since childbirth. Mother opted to feed from a formula instead of breast milk. I screamed for 3 mos. The 5 male siblings were all breast fed. I was in the middle of the mob. Parents ( dead now) loved to tell the story that they wanted to throw me out the window cause they were sleep deprived. Finally sought out a different doc and put me on soy. Immediate cure. I’m 69 in December 2021. Just a bit of venting coming from a male dominated upbringing. Diagnosed with hashimotos in 2006. Repeating myself from other video comment hoping to hear from you. Do you practice in CA?
I'm post TT. I think it's time for me to switch fr Eltroxin to Synthroid. I was on amennoreha for 5mos & has frozen shoulder for 5mos now. Maybe switching can help.
I am 75 yrs old but in my 40’s , I was getting rapid heart beats and was diagnosed with a thyroid problem so had to get I a radio-active ablation and was put on synthyroid. For whatever reason, 20 yrs later they switched me to levothroxine. I have persistently complained of lack of sleep, hair falling out on my head, brain fog, and weight gain yet my Dr refuses to change my thyroid med! What is your advise? Please help!
Get a new doctor. It's your body and there is no reason another human being should deny you something that might make you feel better. Synthroid is the name brand of levo, does the dr think he's going to have to foot the copay or something?
So does levothyroxine 50mg have the same inactive ingredients as levoxyl 50mg?
I had gastric bypass and Graves disease thyroidectomy 2015 dr put me tirosint and I felt horrible like blood sugar problems, racing heart anxiety and anxiety he started me out on 150 from 175 synthroid then he kept dropping medicine because all of these problems but nothing helped I have gained weight being on Levrothyroxine I need help finding the right medicine please help
What if I was having a reaction to levothyroxine and tirosint and just got switched to Levoxl could this switch help if I’m dealing with a reaction to tirosint and levothyroxine?
Why has my PCP put me on levothyroxine because I had my gall bladder removed?
I switched from Levo to Synthroid but I got Exercise triggered utecaria after that. I am not sure if the allergy is because of the change. I am planning to switch back to levo and se
I had gastric bypass 20 yes ago I had a full thyroidectomy and parathyroid 4 weeks ago I dont feel any better, I'm wondering if I'm absorbing the meds, I had blood work yesterday my levels were extremely high 10,7 my t4 was good I dont understand
How do you feel about Tyrosent? What med do you like?
Have hashimoto's. Started on levothyroxine, never felt better, just had more issues. Like anxiety and rapid heartbeat. Switched to Armour thyroid, feel better and no side effects. But I am paying $40 a month more. Worth it for me.
Do you know how much it cost full retail ?
I take synthyroid, I have Hashimoto’s and a gall bladder removed . The only thing this meds has done has done is make feel like I am not choking . My range is 1.7 . I get tired less but still fatigue , hair loss , no weight change . But I recently changed my ratting habits . Can I ask my doctor to switch me to Armour - and will there be a huge adjustment on how I feel ??
@@uoro12 my insurance Humana only covers synthetic. I get a discount with Good RX. My Doctor was supportive of switching. This can vary by Doctors. I only felt better switching, no bad side effects.
Not sure if any of those two are working for me. I keep going from weight gain to weight loss, digestion and other related issues.
I have had a total thyroidectomy 7 years ago and still don't feel well.. 112mg levothyroxine is what I have been taking. I want to take a bioidentical med but I don't want one made with pork since I eat biblically kosher. My endocrinologist switched me to 2, 50mg of synthroid about 10 days ago and I feel terrible. I am at my wit's end..Help!!!
My bottle says synthyroid and levothyroxine
I have Hashimoto's and it only affects me during stress or conflict. Do antibodies decrease through meditation and fasting?
They may, yes.
@@drwestinchilds This may sound strange, but today I had a lot of thyroid pain and while I was preparing lunch for my family, I started snacking on raw spinach. I may have shoveled in a good 2 cups and before I finished cooking, my inflammation was almost completely gone and I was pain free. It has been about 8 hours and the pain/inflammation has not returned. Have you heard of anything similar?
I’m taking 25mcg of the medication. Is that enough or too little?
Thank you Dr. Childs. I've been on Levothyroxine 50 mcg for at least 10 years.. after being on Synthroid the previous 15 years. Was switched involuntarily, I assume for insurance reasons. My main question is..
Do your patients suffer from tinnitus possibly caused by either of these? My tinnitus is extreme and worsening. I've had it at least 5 years. If getting on a different thyroid medication could lessen tinnitus, I would certainly switch, if possible. Thanks again!
I have had tinnitus for years, never associated it with my hypothyroidism. I was on Synthroid for 40 years and now on Levothyroxine. My ears ring with both medications.
I had a pituitary tumor that caused my hypothyroidism. It was removed removed in 2004. Does that change the picture for me compared to people with problems that start in the thyroid itself? I take Levothyroxine. Easy Weight gain is my bigger problem of the ones you mentioned. I’m 67.
You said these are not the BEST 2 medications in the market.
So can you tell me which ONES are the BEST medication?
Please see this video: czcams.com/video/1XLpXLBjI0Y/video.html
I've been on Synthroid for 8 years and my endocrinologist is switching me to Levoxyl. I would love to hear your thoughts on Synthroid vs Levoxyl..
I've gained 25 lbs since having RAI and getting put on synthroid 8 years ago, I believe is trouble converting T4 to T3 and I just bought your T3 conversion booster.. hope it helps me! I've had 4 endocrinologists but all of them have refused to put me on a combination of T4 and T3 or something more natural like Armour. I also have fatigue and low heart rate (58-65) TSH is lower than 1.0 so I'm at a loss!
Levoxyl is slightly better than Synthroid but not as good as Tirosint.
@@drwestinchildsThank you!
Thanks for the great info, I'm taking Synthroid, and always felt better. On the bottle of synthroid it also says levothyroxine, haven't felt good for quite a while. I called the drugstore and asked if it was only Synthroid, he said it was definitely Synthroid...the cost was also a lot cheaper .feeling awful need answer's 😫
@@angelagrosso2162 Synthroid is a brand form of levothyroxine, just like Tylenol is a brand name for acetaminophen. There are many different companies that make levothyroxine but brand them differently, levothyroxine is the key ingredient and the only one we need.. it's the additives that are the problem. Synthroid has lactose, artificial colors and other additives. I am now on Tirosint and I feel better than I have in 8 years! The only additive it has is glycerin
@@starzthelimit3563 hi! How are you doing after the pill? Did your weights come off? I had RAI done 7 years ago too. I had been neglecting my health for the past 7 years (no pills, also no check up🥲) now i gain 12 lbs. i am at loss
Doctor i live in UAE. I wish to consult with you for my thyroid. Do you have any services online Sir? If you take appointments online i want to become your patient with all the charges and payment.
Would you help me with that?
I started having a super itchy scalp around the time I started levothyroxine. I am starting synthroid tomorrow in hopes that goes away 😅
I'm confused. I was told Levothyroxin is the chemical name of synthroid.
No, thyroxine is the active ingredient in both Synthroid and levothyroxine.
@@drwestinchilds You can check Synthroid website; it clearly indicates SYNTHROID® (levothyroxine sodium) tablets. Personally that's what I'm taking here in Canada.
@@AthenaCyclopedia Not sure what else to say! Levothyroxine and Synthroid are not the same thing :)
@@AthenaCyclopedia this is what it says on my prescription as well. I was confused because it says synthroid and right beside it says levothyroxine sodium.
Recently Wal-Mart switched their supplier from Puerto Rico to Germany. It is still levothyroxin but I feel terrible. Almost as if I am on too low or too high dosage. Any ideas? Different inactive ingredients?
From my research, definitely different inactive ingredients! FDA really screwed up when they allowed these generic companies, their demand should of been inactive ingredients including quantity should be the same as Synthroid!!
Just started Levo - after glandular that used to work became too stimulating. So far no effect of all…
Levo will only work if it is dosed correctly: www.restartmed.com/levothyroxine-dosage/
I didn’t know that steroids effected the thyroid, when I go diagnosed with Hashimotos the Levo caused another autoimmune disease lichen planus, on my scalp and on my wrist. The dermatologist gave me steriods to reduce the bumps in my scalp and and my wrist. Although once I stopped Levo the lichen went in to remission and I stopped the steriods.
Topical steroids are typically not absorbed through the skin unless put on the face.
I was just making a statement on what you were saying I use to get steroid shots, I had three spinal fusions. I just got my total T3 it’s 107 it’s certainly not in the 150-180 range. My Tsh has now gone down again from 1.51 to 0.7 and T 4 has gone up from 0.5 to 0.7 I am very confused still waiting for a few other test🙏
I went to the dermatologist and got clobetasol my scalp it clear it up. Thank god! What is T3 Uptake for? I took a Panel of thyroid test on my own. As my dr does basically top four thyroid test you mentioned. Back to today video thank you once again.
@@drwestinchilds thank you!
Synthroid brand name only is the only one that stabilized my condition.
Like the old cigarette commercials said “I’d rather fight than switch.”
Thank you for all your knowledge you share. I am still losing hair, constipated, brain fog, forgetfullness, IBS and losing strength after 10mths on levothyroxine (also take T3, LDN, Zinc, VitD, Mag, VitC) I have an appointment tomorrow to get blood work back and the Dr suggested changing. How long should I try synthroid for before hopefully seeing changes? (Hashimotos Hypothyroidism)
Dr what’s eltroxin
I'm on levothyroxine for the second time the first time I stared on 25 ml and i was gaining so much weight so i stopped taking it.. my doctor convinced me to try it again that there's no way i was gaining weight from this medication.. so i am on it now for 2weeks 50ml ugh can it make you gain weight
Do you accept hypothyroid patients from Canada through virtual appointments?
Not at this time, unfortunately!
Tell my Dr that! She seems to be convinced they are the same.
I have to be on SYNTHROID! My doctor does not want me on Levothyroxin!
so how are you feeling? why does he/she say they do not want you on levo? you are in charge of your health
My 20 yr old had TT and RAI after an initial round of RAI last Spring. Now feeling no better and experiencing both hyper and hypo symptoms simultaneously. Recently bumped up to 137 Levo. TSH still coming down - from 351 to 60 currently. Do you recommend switching to Syn and if so, when? What are the adverse effects of switching?
An elderly co worker advice was to never take a generic for daily consumption. The side effects with levothyroxine is horrible. I pay out of pocket for it also.
Or you can ask for a higher dose of the generic... Just a thought...
Synthroid is the brand name and levothyroxine is the generic name. And as far as I know, they are the same.
Did you listen to this video? they are not
Tirosint!!!
First
I am 92 and diagnosed with low thyroid.
What about Armour replacement with nutritionist.
There both horrible and they don't work