- Some thyroid patients do best on levothyroxine products
- Levothyroxine is the synthetic form of T4, one of the two main hormones the thyroid produces
- The most widely prescribed levothyroxine product is the brand name Synthroid
- Synthroid has regularly claimed to be better than its competitors, but research proved them all to be bioequivalent
- All the levothyroxine products have different filters and binders so people may have different allergic responses to different brands
- Some people who are on levothyroxine also need the addition of the second key hormone T3, or Cytomel
What is the "Best" Thyroid Drug?
By Mary Shomon, About.com
Updated: December 15, 2003
About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board
Explore Thyroid Disease
Must Reads
By Category
- Hypothyroidism / Hashimotos
- Symptoms & Risks
- Basic Info /Thyroid 101
- Thyroid Drugs & Treatments
- Lose Weight Successfully
- Hyperthyroidism / Graves
- Get Tested and Diagnosed
- Cancer / Goiter / Nodules
- Alternative / Holistic Info
- Hormone / Fertility / Women
- Endocrine / Autoimmune
- Related Conditions
- News & Controversies
- Find & Learn From Doctors
- Books / Support / Resources
About.com Special Features
Learn how you can reduce your your numbers with these nutrition and exercise tips. More >
Keep yourself, and your family, happy and healthy this fall with these tips. More >
Also from About.com:
©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.
All rights reserved.