WARNING

Armour Thyroid (generic name: thyroid) is a medication used to treat hypothyroidism. While effective, it carries some risks and potential side effects, including:

• Cardiovascular Effects: May cause rapid heart rate, palpitations, and increased risk of heart disease or angina.
• Nervous System Effects: Can lead to anxiety, tremors, and difficulty sleeping.
• Bone Health: Long-term use might affect bone density, increasing the risk of osteoporosis.
• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions like rash, itching, or swelling.
• Hyperthyroidism Symptoms: Overuse or incorrect dosing can lead to symptoms of hyperthyroidism, such as weight loss, heat intolerance, and sweating.

It’s important to have regular check-ups and blood tests to monitor thyroid levels and adjust the dosage as needed. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions closely.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Armour Thyroid is prescribed primarily to treat hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. It can also be used in certain cases of thyroid cancer or other thyroid-related issues.

How should this medicine be used?

Armour Thyroid should be used as follows:

• Dosage and Timing: Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding dosage. It is typically taken once daily in the morning, on an empty stomach, 30 to 60 minutes before breakfast. This helps with optimal absorption.
• Administration: Take the medication orally with a full glass of water. Do not crush or chew the tablets.
• Consistency: Take Armour Thyroid at the same time each day to maintain consistent levels in your body.
• Avoid Interactions: Certain foods and supplements can affect absorption. It’s usually recommended to avoid taking calcium or iron supplements within 4 hours of taking Armour Thyroid.
• Monitoring: Regular blood tests are necessary to monitor thyroid hormone levels and adjust dosage as needed.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s almost time for your next dose. Do not double up to make up for a missed dose.

Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and instructions.

Other uses for this medicine

• Thyroid Cancer: Armour Thyroid may be used as part of the treatment regimen for certain types of thyroid cancer.
• Thyroid Hormone Replacement Therapy: It can be used for thyroid hormone replacement in individuals who have had their thyroid gland removed or who have certain types of thyroid disorders.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions to Follow:

• Medical History: Inform your healthcare provider if you have a history of heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, adrenal or pituitary gland disorders, or any other health conditions.
• Dosage Adjustment: Regular monitoring of thyroid hormone levels is essential. Your dosage may need to be adjusted based on these levels to avoid over- or under-treatment.
• Interactions: Be cautious with medications and supplements that can interfere with thyroid hormone absorption, such as calcium, iron, or antacids. Maintain a gap of at least 4 hours between these and Armour Thyroid.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. Thyroid hormone needs can change during pregnancy and lactation.
• Symptoms of Overdose: Watch for symptoms of overdose, which may include rapid heart rate, chest pain, tremors, sweating, or severe headache. Seek medical attention if you experience these symptoms.
• Bone Health: Long-term use may affect bone density. Discuss bone health and preventive measures with your healthcare provider, especially if you are at risk for osteoporosis.

Always adhere to your healthcare provider’s guidance and consult them if you have any concerns or experience unusual symptoms.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

• Timing of Intake: Take Armour Thyroid on an empty stomach, ideally 30 to 60 minutes before breakfast. This helps with optimal absorption.
• Avoid Certain Foods: While no specific foods are strictly prohibited, some people find that foods high in soy, fiber, or iron can affect absorption. Maintaining a balanced diet and discussing dietary concerns with your healthcare provider can help.
• Consistent Eating Patterns: Maintain a consistent eating pattern to help manage thyroid hormone levels effectively.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Timing: If you remember within a few hours of the missed dose, take it as soon as you remember.
• Next Dose: If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed dose.
• Routine: Try to take your medication at the same time each day to help remember.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Armour Thyroid, like other thyroid hormone medications, can cause side effects. Common side effects include:

Common Side Effects:

• Increased Appetite: You may experience a boost in appetite.
• Weight Loss: Weight loss can occur, particularly if the dosage is too high.
• Nervousness or Irritability: You might feel unusually nervous or irritable.
• Insomnia: Difficulty sleeping or insomnia is possible.
• Sweating: Increased sweating may occur.
• Tremors: You might experience shaking or tremors in your hands or other parts of the body.

Serious Side Effects:

• Chest Pain: Severe chest pain or discomfort can be a sign of a more serious problem.
• Rapid or Irregular Heartbeat: Palpitations or a racing heart are significant and should be addressed immediately.
• Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath is concerning.
• Severe Headache: Intense or persistent headaches may occur.
• Excessive Sweating: Extreme sweating can be problematic.
• Leg Swelling: Swelling in the legs or ankles can indicate a serious issue.
• Rashes: Skin rashes or hives can occur.
• Itching: Itching of the skin might be experienced.
• Swelling: Swelling of the face, lips, or tongue can be a sign of an allergic reaction and requires immediate medical attention.

If you experience any of these side effects, especially the serious or allergic ones, contact your healthcare provider right away. Regular monitoring and communication with your healthcare provider can help manage and mitigate potential side effects.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Armour Thyroid:

Storage:

• Store Armour Thyroid at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. The ideal temperature is between 59°F and 86°F (15°C and 30°C).
• Keep the medication in its original container, tightly closed, and away from direct sunlight.

Disposal:

• Dispose of unused or expired Armour Thyroid through a drug take-back program or by following specific local regulations. Do not flush it down the toilet or pour it down the drain unless instructed to do so.
• Many pharmacies and local government programs offer disposal services for unused medications.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Symptoms of Overdose: Symptoms of an overdose may include fever, sweating, rapid or irregular heartbeat, nervousness, restlessness, tremors, and weight loss.
• Action: If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical help immediately or contact Poison Control. Provide details about the medication and the amount taken.

What other information should I know?

• Monitoring: Regular blood tests may be required to monitor thyroid hormone levels and adjust dosage as needed.
• Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all other medications, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and supplements, as they may interact with Armour Thyroid.
• Consistency: Take Armour Thyroid exactly as prescribed. Consistency in dosing and timing is important for effective management of thyroid hormone levels.
• Symptoms: Report any unusual symptoms or side effects to your healthcare provider, especially if they suggest too much or too little thyroid hormone in your system.

If you have any specific concerns or questions, consulting with your healthcare provider is always a good approach.