Armour Thyroid stands as a natural desiccated thyroid medication derived from porcine glands, containing both T4 and T3 hormones to treat hypothyroidism. It helps restore normal thyroid function when the body produces too little hormone, easing symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, and cold sensitivity.
Doctors prescribe it when synthetic options like levothyroxine don’t fully address needs, often due to its bioidentical hormone ratio mirroring human thyroid output. Available in tablet form with grain-based strengths, it requires careful dosing to avoid under- or over-treatment.
Dosing follows guidelines from sources like the American Thyroid Association and FDA, starting low and titrating based on lab tests and symptoms. Initial amounts consider age, weight, heart health, and severity of hypothyroidism. Regular TSH, free T4, and T3 monitoring ensures safety and efficacy. Unlike synthetics, Armour Thyroid’s natural composition may suit some patients better, but it demands precise adjustments.
This article details Armour Thyroid dosages with a clear chart, covering adult and pediatric use. It explores administration, benefits, side effects, and monitoring, drawing from expert recommendations. By understanding these aspects, patients can discuss options effectively with their providers for tailored care.
What Is Armour Thyroid?
Armour Thyroid provides a blend of thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) from dried pig thyroid glands, offering a more complete hormone replacement than T4-only drugs. Approved for hypothyroidism since the 1930s, it treats conditions like Hashimoto’s disease or post-thyroidectomy hormone loss. Its grain measurements equate to specific mg strengths, like 1 grain at 60 mg, containing about 38 mcg T4 and 9 mcg T3.
Patients choose it for potential better symptom relief, especially if they convert T4 to T3 poorly. However, variability in batches and T3 potency requires close oversight. Generic desiccated thyroid options exist, but brand Armour ensures consistent quality.
Always obtain from reputable pharmacies. Discuss allergies or pork sensitivities with your doctor before starting.
How Armour Thyroid Dosing Works
Dosing begins conservatively to mimic natural thyroid output without overwhelming the body. Providers calculate based on body weight in mg/kg, aiming for euthyroid state through gradual increases. Labs every 4-6 weeks guide tweaks, targeting TSH 0.4-4.0 mIU/L typically.
Heart conditions or elderly status lowers starting points to prevent palpitations or strain. Pregnancy may require higher doses due to increased demands. Absorption improves with empty stomach intake, but food interactions stay minimal.
Individual responses vary—some stabilize quickly, others need months of fine-tuning. Patience during titration prevents complications.
Adult Dosing Guidelines
Healthy adults under 65 often start at 30 mg daily, increasing by 15 mg every 2-3 weeks. Maintenance ranges 60-120 mg, or about 1-2 grains, based on weight and labs. Those with longstanding hypothyroidism or myxedema begin at 15 mg to safeguard cardiovascular health.
Obese patients use ideal body weight for calculations to avoid excess. Suppressive doses for thyroid cancer reach 2-3 mg/kg, but standard hypothyroidism stays lower. Always split higher doses if stomach upset occurs.
Follow-up includes symptom checks like energy levels or hair health. Adjustments stop once labs normalize.
Pediatric Dosing Guidelines
Children receive weight-based doses, higher per kg due to growth needs. Infants 0-6 months start 15-30 mg daily, or 4.8-6 mg/kg. Older kids titrate down as metabolism slows. Congenital hypothyroidism demands prompt full dosing to support development.
School-age children 6-12 years use 60-90 mg, or 2.4-3 mg/kg. Adolescents over 12 align closer to adults at over 90 mg, or 1.2-1.8 mg/kg. Liquid compounding aids precise administration for young ones.
Growth monitoring ensures no stunting from undertreatment. Labs every 3 months initially track progress.
Armour Thyroid Dosage Chart
| Age Group | Recommended Starting Dose | Dose per kg Body Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Adults (healthy, <65) | 30 mg daily | 1.2-1.8 mg/kg |
| Adults (elderly/cardiac) | 15 mg daily | 0.5-1 mg/kg |
| 0-6 months | 15-30 mg daily | 4.8-6 mg/kg |
| 6-12 months | 30-45 mg daily | 3.6-4.8 mg/kg |
| 1-5 years | 45-60 mg daily | 3-3.6 mg/kg |
| 6-12 years | 60-90 mg daily | 2.4-3 mg/kg |
| >12 years | >90 mg daily | 1.2-1.8 mg/kg |
This table summarizes consensus from FDA and clinical sources. Use actual or ideal weight as appropriate. Titrate every 2-3 weeks with lab guidance.
Administration and Practical Advice
Take Armour Thyroid once daily on an empty stomach, 30-60 minutes before breakfast, for best absorption. Swallow tablets whole with water—avoid crushing unless compounded. Consistency in timing maintains steady hormone levels.
If doses exceed 120 mg, split into morning and afternoon to mimic natural rhythms. Store in a cool, dry place away from light. Missed doses take as soon as remembered, unless near the next—then skip.
Inform your pharmacist of any switches to generics for potency checks. Pair with healthy diet to support thyroid function.
Benefits of Using Armour Thyroid
Armour Thyroid often relieves persistent symptoms like brain fog or joint pain better than synthetics for some. Its T3 component provides quicker energy boosts and mood stability. Natural sourcing appeals to those preferring bioidentical options.
Long-term use supports bone density and heart health when dosed correctly. Many report improved quality of life, with easier weight management and warmer extremities. Pediatric benefits include normal growth and cognitive development.
Evidence shows comparable efficacy to levothyroxine in trials, with patient preference driving choice.
Potential Side Effects of Armour Thyroid
Side effects mimic hyperthyroidism if overdosed, or persist hypothyroidism if underdosed. Common issues resolve with adjustments.
- Heart Palpitations: Reduce dose if rapid heartbeat occurs.
- Insomnia or Anxiety: Take earlier in day to avoid.
- Weight Loss or Gain: Monitor intake and activity.
- Hair Loss: Temporary at start; stabilizes over time.
- GI Upset: Split doses or take with small snack.
- Allergic Reactions: Rare rash from porcine source; switch if needed.
Report severe symptoms like chest pain immediately. Regular labs prevent most issues.
Monitoring and Dose Adjustments
TSH tests every 4-6 weeks during titration confirm progress. Free T4 and T3 checks provide full picture, especially with T3 inclusion. Aim for mid-range normals based on lab references.
Symptom journals help correlate changes with doses. Pregnancy requires monthly monitoring with increases. Elderly patients check more often for cardiac effects.
Downward adjustments occur if TSH drops too low. Stability allows 6-12 month intervals.
Switching from Other Thyroid Medications
Transition from levothyroxine uses conversion ratios—about 60 mg Armour equals 100 mcg levothyroxine, but individualize. Start at 75% equivalent and titrate up. From synthetics, expect initial T3 surge effects like mild energy boost.
Lab tests 6 weeks post-switch guide fine-tuning. Some need hybrid regimens for optimal relief. Discuss history with your endocrinologist for smooth change.
Patience during transition prevents gaps in control.
Lifestyle Support for Thyroid Health
Healthy habits enhance Armour Thyroid’s effects. Nutrient-rich foods like Brazil nuts provide selenium for hormone conversion. Regular exercise boosts metabolism without overtaxing.
Stress management through yoga aids adrenal support. Adequate sleep regulates circadian rhythms tied to thyroid function. Avoid goitrogens like raw cruciferous veggies in excess.
These complements reduce dose needs over time for some.
Tips for Managing Armour Thyroid Therapy
Optimize your routine with these practical steps.
- Track Labs and Symptoms: Keep a journal for provider reviews.
- Stay Consistent: Same time daily prevents fluctuations.
- Avoid Interfering Meds: Separate from calcium or iron by 4 hours.
- Hydrate Well: Supports overall hormone balance.
- Eat Balanced Meals: Include iodine sources like seafood.
- Schedule Check-Ups: Every 3-6 months once stable.
Following these builds better outcomes.
Conclusion
Armour Thyroid offers a natural approach to hypothyroidism management through careful, weight-based dosing. The chart and guidelines provide a foundation for starting and adjusting therapy across ages. With monitoring, lifestyle integration, and provider collaboration, most achieve symptom relief and hormonal balance. Embrace informed discussions for personalized success in thyroid health.
FAQ
What Is the Starting Dose for Adults on Armour Thyroid?
Healthy adults begin at 30 mg daily, increasing by 15 mg every 2-3 weeks. Those with heart issues start at 15 mg to minimize risks. Maintenance typically reaches 60-120 mg based on labs. Always titrate under doctor supervision.
How Does Pediatric Dosing Differ?
Infants 0-6 months use 15-30 mg or 4.8-6 mg/kg daily. Doses decrease with age: 30-45 mg for 6-12 months, up to over 90 mg for teens. Weight-based calculations ensure growth support. Frequent labs guide adjustments.
What Strengths Are Available for Armour Thyroid?
Tablets come in 15 mg (1/4 grain), 30 mg (1/2 grain), 60 mg (1 grain), 90 mg (1.5 grains), 120 mg (2 grains), up to 300 mg (5 grains). Grains reflect historical measures. Choose based on prescribed dose.
Can I Switch from Levothyroxine to Armour Thyroid?
Yes, using conversions like 100 mcg levothyroxine equals about 60 mg Armour. Start at 75% equivalent and titrate. Expect temporary T3 effects. Labs after 6 weeks confirm stability. Discuss with your endocrinologist.
What Side Effects Should I Watch For?
Overdosing may cause palpitations, anxiety, or insomnia. Underdosing leaves fatigue or coldness. Mild GI upset or hair changes occur initially. Report severe issues like chest pain promptly. Labs prevent most problems.
How Often Should I Get Labs Checked?
Every 4-6 weeks during titration. Once stable, every 6-12 months suffices. Pregnancy needs monthly tests. Include TSH, free T4, and T3 for full assessment. Symptom changes prompt earlier checks.
Is Armour Thyroid Safe During Pregnancy?
Yes, with dose increases often needed. Start or adjust based on pre-pregnancy levels. Monitor monthly to protect fetal development. Safe for breastfeeding too. Work closely with your OB-GYN.
What If I Miss a Dose of Armour Thyroid?
Take it as soon as remembered unless near the next dose—then skip. Never double up. Resume schedule. Consistent intake prevents symptom flares. Contact your doctor for frequent misses.
Dr. Usman is a medical content reviewer with 12+ years of experience in healthcare research and patient education. He specializes in evidence-based health information, medications, and chronic health topics. His work is based on trusted medical sources and current clinical guidelines to ensure accuracy, transparency, and reliability. Content reviewed by Dr. Usman is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice.