Armour Thyroid 90 mg: A Comprehensive Guide to Usage, Side Effects, and Cost Savings
Armour Thyroid 90 mg is a natural desiccated thyroid (NDT) medication derived from porcine thyroid glands, commonly prescribed to treat hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid). Unlike synthetic thyroid hormones like levothyroxine, Armour Thyroid contains both thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), the two primary hormones produced by the thyroid gland. This combination aims to more closely mimic the body’s natural hormone production.Verywell Health+1GoodRx+1
🧬 What Is Armour Thyroid 90 mg?
Armour Thyroid 90 mg is a tablet containing 90 mg of desiccated thyroid tissue, equivalent to 1.5 grains. Each tablet provides approximately 67 mcg of levothyroxine (T4) and 13.5 mcg of liothyronine (T3). The 90 mg dosage is typically used for patients requiring higher thyroid hormone replacement due to their specific health needs. The medication is taken orally, usually once daily, and is available by prescription only.
💊 Uses of Armour Thyroid 90 mg
Armour Thyroid 90 mg is primarily prescribed to:
- Treat Hypothyroidism: To replace deficient thyroid hormones in individuals with an underactive thyroid.
- Manage Goiter: To reduce the size of an enlarged thyroid gland.
- Support Thyroid Cancer Treatment: To suppress the growth of thyroid cancer cells.
The 90 mg dosage is often used when lower doses do not adequately address the patient’s thyroid hormone requirements. It’s essential to have regular monitoring of thyroid function tests to ensure the dosage remains appropriate.
⚠️ Potential Side Effects
While Armour Thyroid is generally well-tolerated, some individuals may experience side effects, particularly if the dosage is too high. Common side effects include:
- Nervousness or irritabilityGoodRx
- Increased heart rate or palpitationsVerywell Health+4GoodRx+4Kaiser Permanente+4
- Weight lossDrugs.com+1GoodRx+1
- Heat intolerance or sweatingMayo Clinic+1GoodRx+1
- Tremors
- Sleep disturbances
These symptoms may indicate an overactive thyroid and should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
Less common but more serious side effects can include:
- Chest pain or anginaVerywell Health+10Drugs.com+10DailyMed+10
- Shortness of breathGoodRx+2Drugs.com+2DailyMed+2
- Swelling of the ankles or feet
- Severe headache
If any of these occur, immediate medical attention is necessary.
💰 Cost of Armour Thyroid 90 mg
The cost of Armour Thyroid 90 mg can vary based on factors like pharmacy pricing and insurance coverage. Without insurance, the average retail price for a 30-day supply of Armour Thyroid 90 mg is approximately $118.73. However, prices can be significantly lower with the use of discount programs.
For instance, GoodRx offers coupons that can reduce the price to as low as $47.40 at participating pharmacies. Additionally, AbbVie, the manufacturer of Armour Thyroid, provides a Patient Assistance Program that may offer the medication at no cost for eligible individuals. To access these savings, patients can visit the Armour Thyroid Copay Savings Program or use the GoodRx website to compare prices at local pharmacies.GoodRxGoodRx+1GoodRx+1
📝 Tips for Taking Armour Thyroid 90 mg
To ensure the effectiveness of Armour Thyroid 90 mg:
- Take it on an empty stomach: Consume the tablet at least 30 minutes before eating or drinking anything other than water.
- Consistency is key: Take the medication at the same time each day to help remember.
- Avoid certain substances: Do not take calcium or iron supplements within four hours of taking Armour Thyroid, as they can interfere with absorption.
- Regular monitoring: Have your thyroid function levels checked regularly to ensure the dosage remains appropriate.
- Consult your healthcare provider: Before starting or stopping any medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, discuss them with your healthcare provider to avoid potential interactions.
📌 Conclusion
Armour Thyroid 90 mg is a natural thyroid hormone replacement option for individuals with hypothyroidism or other thyroid-related conditions. While it offers certain benefits, such as containing both T4 and T3 hormones, it’s essential to use it under the guidance of a healthcare provider due to potential side effects and the need for regular monitoring. Utilizing discount programs like GoodRx and the Armour Thyroid Copay Savings Program can make the medication more affordable. Always consult with your healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment for your specific needs.GoodRx
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for medical guidance tailored to your health situation.
