Armour Thyroid (Thyroid tablets) Patient Information: How Should I Take the Drug at RxList

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May 24, 2012

Armour Thyroid

Hypothyroidism »

What is hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism is a condition characterized by abnormally low thyroid hormone production. There are many disorders that result in hypothyroidism. These disorders may directly or indirectly involve the thyroid gland. Because thyroid hormone affects growth, development, and many cellular processes, inadequate thyroid hormone has widespread consequences for the body.

This article will focus specifically on hypothyroidism in adults.

What are thyroid hormones?

Thyroid hormones are produced by the thyroid gland. This gland is located in the lower part of the neck, below the Adam's apple. The gland wraps around the windpipe (trachea) and has a shape that is similar to a butterfly - formed by two wings (lobes) and attached by a middle part (isthmus).

The thyroid gland uses iodine (mostly available from the diet in foods such as seafood, bread, and salt) to produce thyroid hormones....

Read the Hypothyroidism article »

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Armour Thyroid Patient Information including How Should I Take

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking desiccated thyroid (Armour Thyroid)?

Since thyroid hormone occurs naturally in the body, almost anyone can take desiccated thyroid. You should not use this medication if you have a thyroid disorder called thyrotoxicosis, or an adrenal gland problem that is not controlled by treatment.

If you have any of these other conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use this medication:

heart disease, angina (chest pain);
coronary artery disease;
congestive heart failure;
diabetes; or
problems with your adrenal gland.

FDA pregnancy category A. Desiccated thyroid is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. However, tell your doctor if you become pregnant, since your dose needs may change.

Small amounts of desiccated thyroid can pass into breast milk, but this is not expected to harm a nursing baby. However, do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take desiccated thyroid (Armour Thyroid)?

Take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results from this medication.

To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your blood may need to be tested on a regular basis. Do not miss any follow-up visits to your doctor.

Keep using this medicine as directed, even if you feel well. You may need to use this medication for the rest of your life.

Call your doctor if you notice any signs of thyroid toxicity, such as chest pain, fast or pounding heartbeats, feeling hot or nervous, or sweating more than usual.

If you need to have any type of surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time that you are using desiccated thyroid.

Store desiccated thyroid at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

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