Euthyroid

October 2002:
I was finally excused from regular thyroid function tests to only one every six months, on a dosage of 175mg of levothyroxine, 25mg Rocaltrol and 10mg of tri-iodothyronine daily. I've slowly been able to work off the weight I gained when hypothyroid, and although I'm on the high range of the norm, my endocrinologist agrees with me that certain people can't feel okay while being in the middle of the normal range. I'm grateful that I've been able to work with him in obtaining my health back to what I consider normal.

I'll never be completely 'normal' with my thyroid.

I've learnt to except that; it has taken time.
I never wanted to be dependent on medications for the rest of my life, and to be honest the idea really upset me. I find that when I have someone there popping pills with me, it isn't so bad anymore. If you live with a flatmate/family member that doesn't take medication, ask them to take daily vitamins together with you. It really makes a great deal of difference.

I also understand that the more you handle your thyroid medication, the more likely it will lose it's potency. I think this is because the pills are not coated, and with friction of handling, they can lose bits that were originally part of the whole pill. So, if you're transferring your medication from one bottle to another or counting them by hand, it's probably a good idea to not touch them at all. Use a plate and a knife to move them on a clean surface, and they should not be damaged. When you remove your pills from a blister pack, as mine do, push the pills out into another cup, like the ones that come with a bottle of cough syrup, and then use the cup to put the pills directly in your mouth and swallow with water; this method should also help prevent pill deterioration.

I also recommend taking your thyroxine in the morning, approximately one hour before you plan on eating anything. This tactic allows your medication to be completely absorbed by your body.

All in all, I'm glad I made the decisions I have. I hope that everyone out there suffering from thyroid malfunctions finds 'their way'. There is no right or wrong way, as there wouldn't be 3 options to correction of hyperthyroiditis if there was a magical cure. I wish those that are still trying to find the 'right dose' patience and hope. I wish those who are suffering from side-effects the will to continue to fight. And I wish for those about to endure surgery or RIA the best of luck.

All the best--