Expert: Dr. Kristina Conner - 10/20/2011

Question
I have tried all the following thyroid medications. Synthroid, Eltroxin, Thyroid, and Nature-Throid. Everyone causes me a very irregular and fast heartbeat. I have been to  three doctors. On research I find that all the above have the side effect of irregular or fast heart beat. Is there a thyroid medication or alternative medication that would not cause this side effect?
Thanks for your help.

Answer
Hello Ursula,
That is a common side effect, for both natural and conventional treatments for low thyroid.  Sometimes the dosage needs to be adjusted, and some people are very sensitive and may react even with natural versions of the thyroid meds.  Even with milder herbals such as bladderwrack or other seaweeds this is possible, less likely to have side effects but these treatments are not as strong, so they may not be suitable for you.  Likewise, many people find just increasing certain nutrients such as iodine, tyrosine, selenium, zinc (which are used to create and convert thryoid hormone) is enough to make a difference, but again that might not be suitable for your situation.  If you are looking for an alternative, you may wish to consult a naturopathic (www.cand.ca) or holistic doctor near you, because they would be able to give you more specific recommendations including dietary and lifestyle suggestions after an assessment.  
In health,
Dr Conner