| Medication Name | Armour Thyroid |
| Generic Name | Thyroid, desiccated |
| Boxed/Label Warning | Drugs with thyroid hormone, alone or together with other therapeutic agents, should not be used for the treatment of obesity or for weight loss. In euthyroid patients, doses within the range of daily hormonal requirements are ineffective for weight reduction. Larger doses may produce serious or even life-threatening manifestations of toxicity, particularly when given in association with sympathomimetic amines such as those used for their anorectic effects. |
| Purpose | Thyroid hormone replacement for hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) |
| Mechanism of Action | Provides exogenous thyroid hormones (T4 and T3) to supplement or replace endogenous production, regulating metabolism, growth, and development. |
| Dosage Forms | Oral tablets |
| Available Strengths | 15 mg, 30 mg, 60 mg, 90 mg, 120 mg, 180 mg, 240 mg, 300 mg |
| Dosage Frequency | Typically once daily, in the morning, or as directed by a healthcare provider |
| Common Side Effects | Nervousness, insomnia, tremor, headache, palpitations, sweating, weight loss, increased appetite. |
| Serious Side Effects | Chest pain, irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath, seizures, confusion, severe mood changes, heat intolerance, excessive sweating, unexplained weight loss. |
| Drug Interactions | Warfarin (Coumadin), digoxin, insulin or oral diabetes medications, estrogen, birth control pills, certain antidepressants, cholestyramine, iron supplements. |
| Important Notes | Take on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before food. Consistent timing is important. Do not switch brands without consulting your doctor. Monitor thyroid levels regularly. |
| Storage | Store at room temperature away from moisture and light. |
| Missed Dose | Take as soon as you remember; skip if it’s almost time for your next dose. Do not double the dose. |
| Alternatives | Levothyroxine (Synthroid, Unithroid), Liothyronine (Cytomel), Thyroid USP |