Quote: Because your body produces more T4 than T3, and your body naturally converts T4 to T3, many doctors do not provide T3 directly. This is a mistake because although T4 naturally converts to T3, replacement T4 does not convert to T3.
PIB - actually, this is not completely correct. Your body DOES convert replacement T4 to T3. However, in many people on replacement, the RATIO of T4 to T3 never quite gets to what it is in healthy people without thyroid disease. Most people convert Synthroid to T3 well enough, and they do fine on Synthroid, But some people don't convert it as well (certain supplements like selenium may theoretically help this process).Those who don't convert T4 to T3 that well may experience symptoms.
However, T3 supplements are not without problems. T3 is unstable and is metabolized quickly, so it is not as suited to a once daily dose as Synthroid is. And Dr. Arem feels that the amount of T3 in Armour thyroid is too high. (Also, you get a big "peak and trough" effect with the T3 going high and then low over 24 hours).(Although I certainly used to have patients who did well on it.) He uses cytomel, a purified (and therefore more standardized) dose of T3, and gives it in a small dose two to three times a day. Of course, this is hard to do, to be consistent about taking something 3 times a day.
I was scared because I thought if I worked out in the morning that I'd be absolutely drained and wouldn't have enough energy to get through the day.
But, instead, I find that I'm feeling relaxed and alert.
I don't feel like running laps, but I am feeling content.
Husband was great. He didn't yell at me when I woke him up. Course, last night before bed, I made him promise to be nice when I tried to wake him up...he said he'd do his best!
Bets 
Course, last night before bed, I made him promise to be nice when I tried to wake him up...he said he'd do his best!