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Lantern
Member in Phase 2/3
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Posted: Tue May 23rd, 2006 08:20 |
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I have been taking Thyroid tablets (T3 12.5mg & T4 50mg) for about a year now. They definitely made a difference when I first started taking them. However, I was wondering if now, because I am on the MP meds, taking them may be stopping a complete hormonal rebalancing? Would my thyroid be underactive because I'm taking this medication?
What about other hormones that people are taking - could they also prevent the hormonal rebalancing on the MP?
Is there a certain stage where one should try to get off hormones, eg. by the end of Phase 1, so that the MP can be more effective?
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CFS IBS Malabsorption Hypothyroid Rickettsia. Ph1 Apr06, Mod.Ph2 Oct06, Ph2 Feb07, Ph3 Aug07. Endep T3/T4 Panadol. NoIRs, homebound in low lux. Apr07 1,25D=15.4, 25D=13.6
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Alayne
Member in Phase 3
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Posted: Tue May 23rd, 2006 09:22 |
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Hi Shadowzone,
I'm definitely NOT an expert on hormones, so can only speak from my own experiences. I was hypothyroid and took T3 & T4 before starting the MP lifestyle late September. My thyroid already began to alter with the avoidance of sun and D. By the time I started with Benicar in November, I was hyperthyroid and had to stop supplementing. By December, my thyroid was tested in the normal range!
The need for thyroid meds can change pretty quickly on the MP, as the hormones begin to shift - which is why you should check it often. When I started the MP, I was also taking DHEA, Pregnenolone, Progesterone and Testosterone. When I tested them again in December, the DHEA and Prenenolone were back to normal and I had to reduce the Progesterone! I was able to stop Progesterone and Testosterone a few months ago as well!
There's been a good deal of talk about hormones here. In case you haven't seen it, take a look at Why should I avoid hormone replacement medication?
I'm sure others will chime in here and give you more info.
Cheers! Alayne
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ME/CFS/FM 6/05:25D-34 1,25D-69, 11/07:25D-8 1,25-37, Sick 6-11 mos/yr x30+yrs. NoIRs/Avoid Sun/D/Use Zinc oxide. 11/17/05-Ph1, 5/06-MPh2, 12/06-MPh2#2, 6/07-MPh2#3,1/08-Ph2, 4/08-Ph3, NonMP Meds: MThistle/Calc&Mag/Lysine
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Lantern
Member in Phase 2/3
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Posted: Tue May 23rd, 2006 10:41 |
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Thanks Alayne. It's great news that you have been able to stop all the hormones you had been taking! I guess it would have been too much for your body if you had tried to stop them all at once. I hadn't read the page you referred me to as I would not have considered myself to be on "hormone replacement" as it is just some low-dose thyroid and nothing else. But it was interesting to read in any case.
I had blood drawn for a thyroid test 2 weeks ago, which I haven't checked up on yet. But, the doc said he would ring if anything was urgent, so I'm assuming it was in normal range. I'll have to remember (ie write myself a note!) to ring and find out.
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CFS IBS Malabsorption Hypothyroid Rickettsia. Ph1 Apr06, Mod.Ph2 Oct06, Ph2 Feb07, Ph3 Aug07. Endep T3/T4 Panadol. NoIRs, homebound in low lux. Apr07 1,25D=15.4, 25D=13.6
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LH1953
Member in Phase 3
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Posted: Tue May 23rd, 2006 21:13 |
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Hi All, I have been on the MP now for 9 months. I get a blood test every 4 to 6 weeks. I am crazy about this since my drug induce hepatitis from IV treatment for the Lyme. In 4 weeks, my Alk. Phoso. went from normal high of 150 to 1,900. I was quite ill. The MP brought my levels back to normal.
My hypothroid is still requiring 50 of Levothroid. My levels are in the normal range. I have 2 small nodes on my left side. Am I the only one on the MP not to need a reduction , or still in need of my thyroid meds? I feel like everyone else has had the ability to stop. Is this something I should try for a while, I mean to stop, then test? Just wondering? Lori
Last edited on Tue May 23rd, 2006 21:15 by LH1953
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Lyme, MCS, IC, asthma, reflux, UC, osteopenia, hypothy, EBV, 1,25D48, MP 8/05, alupent inhaler, PBX, diazepam, fioricet, Ph3 7/06, NoIRs, limited outings covered up, low lux home, 25D4, 1,25D24
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Aussie Barb
Research Team
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Posted: Tue May 23rd, 2006 21:21 |
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Lori
no you are not the only one who has stayed on your thyroid meds into the MP.. you may wish to check in some signature lines as you read some posts or progress reports..
It is wise to discuss your thoughts of slow reduction of meds with your Dr..
see THYROID DISEASE and Th1 inflammation
all best, Barb ...
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Barb: Dx Inflammatory Disease Endocrine Imbalance 2003| Depression| 24+ years not Dx| MP Aug04| ABC of MP| MP Search|
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Reenie
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Posted: Tue May 23rd, 2006 22:18 |
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I feel like everyone else has had the ability to stop.
Hi Lori,
I am not like "everyone else" either... at least not yet. 
I get my thyroid tests carefully monitored including TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) and have reduced my thyroid meds, but still require supplementation too.
I used to take Cytomel (T3) AND Synthroid (T4) and still had a difficult time keeping my thyroid and TSH within normal ranges and to where I didn't feel too poorly. Now I only take Synthroid (reduced amt) and my levels are MUCH improved with just this lower dose.
Although my endocrinologist doesn't see how I would ever be able to "get by" without supplementation since, as he says, I have a thyroid autoimmune disease, I think he may be surprised. Last edited on Tue May 23rd, 2006 22:24 by Reenie
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arhayw
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Posted: Tue May 23rd, 2006 22:39 |
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Me too, Lori. Thanks for asking this - I had wondered the same thing as well. I have reduced my Synthroid a bit, but that was mostly a "try it and see" decision. Nice to know there are other anomalies out there...
Renee
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CFS FM hypothyroid 125D56 25D99 Ph1Jun04 25D99(June04)25D24(Apr09) Ph2Mar05 Ph3May06 abx brk Sep06 r/t KFTs Ph1Dec06 ModPh2Jul07 Ph1Jan08 abx brk Feb08 r/t >sxs Cytomel Calcium NoIRs occ outings covered
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LH1953
Member in Phase 3
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Posted: Wed May 24th, 2006 00:51 |
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Thanks Ladies. I do not get to read as much as I would like. My eyes get tired very fast. So, this post was helpful.
Does anyone else have nodes too? Lori
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Lyme, MCS, IC, asthma, reflux, UC, osteopenia, hypothy, EBV, 1,25D48, MP 8/05, alupent inhaler, PBX, diazepam, fioricet, Ph3 7/06, NoIRs, limited outings covered up, low lux home, 25D4, 1,25D24
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kathleen
Member in Phase 2/3
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Posted: Wed May 24th, 2006 06:52 |
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Hi,
No nodes.
I've had to reduce my synthroid - which I've depended on for about 18 years - from 110 to now only about 40 mg. since I started then MP about 20 months ago. Whenever I start to not sleep I reduce my dose and have my blood tested. My doctor and I are both pretty amazed. I keep my T4 levels near the high end, which I've always needed just to have enough energy to survive. I'm now maintianing the level a little bit lower.
Some people can stop their synthroid all at once, and after only a few months. Others of us are gradually taking less. Either way it sure seems like a very good sign.
Best luck, no giving up, Kathleen
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CFS '86, LTD '86 (50 yrs old)pacemaker - total heart block '99 fatigue, cognitive, sleep, digestion, dysautonomia, weakness, headache, tinnitus, IC, new anemia 9/9/04 D,25 44 - D,125 76 4/05 D,25 24 4/05 Ben 40mg/6hrs, Mod Ph 2
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LH1953
Member in Phase 3
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Posted: Sat Jul 15th, 2006 14:30 |
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| Hi Renee, When did you "try and see"? How long were you on the MP before you did this? Were you able to keep on the lower dose? Did you FEEL any different? How long did you have to wait till the next blood work before testing again? Sorry for all of the questions, I'm having a good brain moment. Thanks so much for your time! Lori
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Lyme, MCS, IC, asthma, reflux, UC, osteopenia, hypothy, EBV, 1,25D48, MP 8/05, alupent inhaler, PBX, diazepam, fioricet, Ph3 7/06, NoIRs, limited outings covered up, low lux home, 25D4, 1,25D24
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arhayw
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Posted: Sat Jul 15th, 2006 20:18 |
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Hi Lori,
I have learned not to put too much stock in thyroid tests - the normal ranges are so broad and I have been symptomatic while being in range - so I'm afraid I won't have the particulars you are looking for.
I have been on the MP for 2 years and guess that I started experimenting with my Synthroid dosage about a year into it - ?
I do ask for the values to be retested if I feel my dosage might need to be changed: feeling wired (and on the flip side, extra fatigue), heart racing, hair loss, body temp issues are usually what inspire a retesting and trial change. The results-Surprise!-are always within normal range, at which point I adjust the dosage as necessary.  Of course, the symptoms are more largely due to the hypervitaminosis D/Th1 disease but I am trying to make sure that a goiter doesn't redevelop.
Since experimenting, I have now been able to get down to 1/2 of the 75mcg tablet I started with, but there was some moderate seesawing along the way. (I have never exceeded the original starting dose, however.) Overall I don't have the perception of feeling better, but those few marker symptoms I mentioned have, I think, been somewhat manipulated by the med adjustments.
Sorry to be so loosey-goosey about the details. It's really such a subjective thing to gauge. Bother!
About your nodule question...
My father, who is on the MP for arthritis and CFS, has had a mass (nodule[s]?) in his thyroid for over a year. The endocrinologist who initially saw him just brushed his case aside, so he was never started on any meds for it. This mass has now been rediscovered following a trip to the emergency room for what turned out to be a partially collapsed lung. He is now being sent back to the same endo for re-evaluation. Seems to me that as long as the situation is not critical (e.g. cancer) the MP will take care of it eventually.
The idea that one day we can be free of all these fill-in-the-gap pills is just one of the things that makes the MP so appealing. It's so liberating!
Take care and Happy Good Brain Moment,
Renee
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CFS FM hypothyroid 125D56 25D99 Ph1Jun04 25D99(June04)25D24(Apr09) Ph2Mar05 Ph3May06 abx brk Sep06 r/t KFTs Ph1Dec06 ModPh2Jul07 Ph1Jan08 abx brk Feb08 r/t >sxs Cytomel Calcium NoIRs occ outings covered
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LH1953
Member in Phase 3
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Posted: Sat Jul 15th, 2006 21:34 |
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Thanks Renee, I did decide to drop the Levothroid in half today, you inspired me. I was on 50mg. Do you remember how long it takes before I should retest? I assume 2/4 weeks?
I did have an ultra sound done 2 years ago. Have you considered changing DR for Dad. I definate would. If he has something going on, Why no tests for at least a basline reference? Sometimes I think I am getting my MD through my illnesses and experiences. I still would have preferred the good old college way.
As GOOD as my "brain" is today, I am still switching my letters while typing. I am grateful for 1 step at a time. This process is really amazing. Hope you are doing OK. Lori
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Lyme, MCS, IC, asthma, reflux, UC, osteopenia, hypothy, EBV, 1,25D48, MP 8/05, alupent inhaler, PBX, diazepam, fioricet, Ph3 7/06, NoIRs, limited outings covered up, low lux home, 25D4, 1,25D24
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arhayw
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Posted: Sat Jul 15th, 2006 23:05 |
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I have no idea when retesting is appropriate after a dosage change. Your guess sounds good though.
Unfortunately, all the endocrinologists in our area have blockaded themselves in one clinic. Their office politics dictate (operative word here!) that once you see a doctor there he shall forever and ever remain your designated doctor, even if you have absolutely no rapport with him/her, amen. This chaps my hide. Aren't we still in America?
There remains one lonely endo here willing to retain his private practice and we have put my dad on the waiting list for an appointment.
Speaking of the 'good old college way', I have had somewhat of a paradigm shift in regards to medicine. I have started reading a book called "The Great Influenza" by John M. Barry and the historical sketch of medicine, particularly education/research - or lack thereof, is a real eye opener. Due diligence seems to be a relatively recent development (and still leaves a lot to be desired.)
They say ignorance is bliss, but I don't remember being all that blissful while blindly following my doctors - just frustrated and a little victimized. You're right we do have to be partners with our doctors. Sometimes we have to be the sole thinking partner - no small task when working just above empty! 
And in keeping with the climate of the day...would you mind signing a waiver releasing me from all liability relating to your Levothroid? (hehe)
Hope your trial run goes well,
Renee
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CFS FM hypothyroid 125D56 25D99 Ph1Jun04 25D99(June04)25D24(Apr09) Ph2Mar05 Ph3May06 abx brk Sep06 r/t KFTs Ph1Dec06 ModPh2Jul07 Ph1Jan08 abx brk Feb08 r/t >sxs Cytomel Calcium NoIRs occ outings covered
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LH1953
Member in Phase 3
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Posted: Sun Jul 16th, 2006 02:50 |
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You are too funny! Don't get a big head over this, you only inspired me.(LOL) How could I ever hold anyone responsible? I have this way of thinking:
A doctor is his interpretation of the medical book along with his personality. Some are strong, confident, aggressive, etc. as well as those who are conservative, etc. One must remember that doctors are not gods, they are human. I can only hope that when I see a doc, that he is a good technician. I have had way too many procedures over the years to know and recognise the difference.
I also have to truely believe that a doctor (person) would never intensionally cause harm to anyone. The human body is so complex, it is a wonder that WE all on the MP are still here to talk about it!
Remember position and timing, are everything in life. I have had 4 near death experiences in the past 5 years, trying to treat what was wong with me. THEN, I found the MP. Now, take Dr. Marshall, is he a doctor, or a god?
Last edited on Sun Jul 16th, 2006 02:55 by LH1953
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Lyme, MCS, IC, asthma, reflux, UC, osteopenia, hypothy, EBV, 1,25D48, MP 8/05, alupent inhaler, PBX, diazepam, fioricet, Ph3 7/06, NoIRs, limited outings covered up, low lux home, 25D4, 1,25D24
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Lantern
Member in Phase 2/3
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Posted: Sun Jul 16th, 2006 05:13 |
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LH1953 wrote:
Do you remember how long it takes before I should retest? I assume 2/4 weeks?
I was told it takes about 6 weeks to see the difference in a blood test once you have changed your thyroid dose.Last edited on Sun Jul 16th, 2006 05:17 by Lantern
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CFS IBS Malabsorption Hypothyroid Rickettsia. Ph1 Apr06, Mod.Ph2 Oct06, Ph2 Feb07, Ph3 Aug07. Endep T3/T4 Panadol. NoIRs, homebound in low lux. Apr07 1,25D=15.4, 25D=13.6
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jillian
Member in Phase 2
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Posted: Tue Jul 18th, 2006 16:23 |
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I don't think Dr. Marshall's a god; I think Superman would be a better title  . But then, that's probably my awe of a man who's tenacious enough to turn 'modern' medicine upside down.... 
'til later, Jillian
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PrimryDX-PulmoSarc79,FMS,CFIDS,etc,disabled93. AvoidD/Noirs Aug02. Oct02: 1,25D=42 NTfrzen; Apr05:25D=10. P1 Oct05-Feb06; ModP2C Feb-Nov06; P2 Nov14-Dec06; ModP2BSS Jan-Mar07; ModP2CBSS Mar07-. Noirs & total light control in house.
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Lee
Member in Phase 3
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Posted: Tue Jul 18th, 2006 16:30 |
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I am taking half the synthroid (50 now) I was taking just a year ago and still test normal!! This is really great since I have "hashimotos" and a partial thyroidectomy!! Thank you Trevor Marshall and all that make the MP a reality!!!Lee
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2003 SARC w/COPD Hyper-Flex Fibro.
D ratio-2.13 Ph1-2/05 Benicar| 4/05 PH2| 06 Ph3| 2008 D25-9.7 silymarin/sunlight w/noirs
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ShrnHml
Member in Phase 2/3
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Posted: Wed Jul 19th, 2006 22:20 |
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I had hypothyroidism pre-MP and took meds............now I don't need any.
One of these days my PCP will wake up to the fact that the MP is for real. He will see that my thyroid function is normal, that I no longer have osteopenia, that my high triglycerides have gone down, and than I am no longer anemic. The test results will speak volumes. I wonder if he will still call it pseudo-science then. .................Sharon
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Neuroborreliosis, MP 3/05, 1,25D 62; 3/06 25D<4, ModPh2 12/05, Premarin, Effexor, stopped Benicar 1/07....no longer in study
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