tneah, I take both Synthroid and Cytomel. Yes, most tests only look at the T4 (which you take the Synthroid for). The Cytomel is for the T3. I think (it's been a while) that first of all, they found out my T4 was off, so they then tested further for T3 as well as the TSH levels, which is another test for T4, if I remember correctly. It will take a few weeks to notice a change, but you also have to be on the correct levels for that change to really take effect. It took a while for mine to get right, and then boom, I felt great. Now I think they are off again - for some reason, my doctor lowered the T3 and that has made me sluggish, but I've increased the Synthroid so hoping that helps. As for side effects, do not expect any. I am a person who cannot even take the smallest infant dose of infant Benadryl, hallucinate on some cold medications, was one of 1200 people who had a brain side effect from Doxycycline (not serious, but scary), Singulair gives me freaky dreams, I had panic attacks and very high pulse rate on a birth control pill, decongestants put me in la la land, the list goes on. I basically take Advil and that's it, in addition to the thyroid meds. Since your body is supposed to be making this stuff anyway, it needs it. I have heard people either love or hate the Armour - it is a natural thyroid medication but it is made from pig something or another. I do fine on Synthroid and stick to that. Good luck getting it regulated - don't give up. It can take little while but little by little, you will be feeling better.
