From the Research
The recommended starting dose of Armor Thyroid for a 143-pound female patient with hypothyroidism is approximately 30-60 mg daily, considering the patient's weight and the general guideline of 1.5-1.8 mcg/kg/day of levothyroxine equivalent 1. To determine the optimal starting dose, we can estimate the patient's lean body mass (LBM) and use it as a reference, as suggested by a study published in the Journal of Clinical & Translational Endocrinology 2. However, since the exact LBM calculation is not provided, we will rely on the general guidelines for levothyroxine replacement therapy. Some studies suggest that desiccated thyroid extract (DTE) can be used as an alternative to levothyroxine, with a mean daily dose of DTE needed to normalize serum TSH containing approximately 11 mcg of T3 3. However, the optimal dose of Armor Thyroid may vary depending on individual factors, such as the patient's age, cardiovascular status, and symptom severity. Key considerations for initiating Armor Thyroid therapy include:
- Starting at a lower dose (30 mg daily) and gradually increasing every 2-4 weeks based on clinical response and thyroid function tests
- Taking the medication in the morning on an empty stomach, 30-60 minutes before eating, to ensure optimal absorption
- Monitoring thyroid function tests regularly, particularly during the initial adjustment period
- Adjusting the dose until the patient achieves clinical euthyroidism and normal TSH levels, with most patients requiring between 60-120 mg daily for maintenance therapy 3. It is essential to note that the use of desiccated thyroid extract, such as Armor Thyroid, is not universally accepted as a first-line treatment for hypothyroidism, and some guidelines recommend levothyroxine as the primary treatment option 1, 4. Nevertheless, for patients who require or prefer desiccated thyroid extract, the recommended starting dose and titration strategy should be individualized and guided by clinical experience and patient response.