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What Causes Excessive Weight Gain, Lethargy And Dizziness Despite Taking Synthroid?

Posted on Wed, 31 May 2017

Question: I had my thyroid removed 18 months ago. No cancer. I am 63 years old. I started out at 88 mg of synthroid then my endocronologist switched me to 100 mg. I called him the other day because I've gained weight, feel tired and lethargic, and have been getting dizzy when I get up to walk. The other day I was so dizzy I fell. What dosage would you give to a patient like me.

Answered by Dr. Mirjeta Guni (11 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
TSH level should be checked;

Detailed Answer:
Hello and thank you for asking!
Levothyroxine is a hormone that is monitored by checking the hormonal level in blood.
The TSH level is a good indicator of the dose. If it is within the normal levels, it means that the dose you have been taking is the right one, otherwise the dose should be adjusted.
The symptoms you reported are suggestive for a low dose, anyway you should confirm it by checking the TSH level with a blood test.
Usually, the common dose after total thyroidectomy is about 150 mcg/ daily, but it should not be increased having into consideration only the symptoms.
Check the TSH level and do not hesitate to report it.
Will be a pleasure to help you further.
Kind regards,
Dr.Mirjeta

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T

Follow up: Dr. Mirjeta Guni (1 hour later)

This is XXXX Woodring who recently asked the question about amount of synthroid I should be taking. I recently had blood work done for the 2nd time in a matter of months. My PCP said that my TSH levels were low and advised me to call my endocrinologist after she faxed my results to him. His nurse said DR. B wanted to put me back to 88 mg. instead of increasing my dosage he lowered the dose.Value 0.36, REF Range 0.47 - 0.66 ulU/ml. Thank you for helping me. XXXX

Answered by Dr. Mirjeta Guni (14 hours later)

Brief Answer:
The thyroid is not the cause of the symptoms:

Detailed Answer:
Hello again,
I would agree with your treating physician regarding the dose of the levothyroxine (88mcg), as the TSH level is lower than the normal ranges (it means that the dose is larger than normal).
The symptoms you describe are not related to levothyroxine dose.
A detailed clinical examination would be of help to try to find another cause for the symptoms.
Wish you good health.
Best wishes,
Dr.Mirjeta

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj