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Side Effects of Armour Thyroid Medication

Armour is a prescription medication derived from the thyroid hormones of pigs. Despite its effectiveness at increasing levels of thyroid levels in patients with hypothyroidism, Armour poses a risk for side effects in some patients.

  1. Significance

    • Side effects from Armour normally occur only when your dosage needs adjusting.

    Types of Side Effects

    • The possible side effects of Armour thyroid medication mimic those of hyperthryroidism and include rapid weight loss, despite an increased appetite, rapid heartbeat, nervousness, tremors, sweating and insomnia.

    Solutions

    • If you experience side effects while taking Armour, talk to your doctor. Lowering your dose is likely to alleviate your symptoms.

    Drug Interactions

    • When combined with blood thinners like Warfarin, Armour increases your risk of developing uncontrollable bleeding following an injury. Cholesterol medications and estrogen birth control pills decrease the effectiveness of Armour.

    Warning

    • Armour medication is not safe for use as a treatment for obesity by patients who do not suffer from hypothyroidism. Using Armour without an underlying thyroid condition has the potential to cause toxic effects to the body.

    Considerations

    • While Armour is safe to use during pregnancy, nursing mothers should avoid using the medication if possible.

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