Armour Thyroid: What It Is, How It Works, and What You Need to Know

When your thyroid doesn’t make enough hormones, your body slows down—fatigue, weight gain, cold hands, brain fog. That’s where Armour Thyroid, a natural desiccated thyroid extract made from pig thyroid glands. Also known as natural thyroid medication, it provides both T4 and T3 hormones, unlike most synthetic options that only contain T4. This matters because your body needs both to feel right. Many people switch to Armour Thyroid after years on levothyroxine and finally start sleeping better, losing weight, or thinking clearly again.

It’s not for everyone. Some folks do great on levothyroxine alone. But if you’ve tried it and still feel off, Armour Thyroid might be worth discussing with your doctor. It’s often chosen by people who struggle with converting T4 to T3, or those who want a more "natural" approach. The dose isn’t one-size-fits-all—you might need 30mg, 60mg, or even 120mg, depending on your lab results and symptoms. And unlike synthetic pills, Armour Thyroid can vary slightly between batches, which is why sticking with the same pharmacy matters.

Side effects? Yes, if you take too much. Heart palpitations, anxiety, insomnia—signs you’re over-replaced. Too little, and you’re back to feeling tired and sluggish. That’s why regular blood tests (TSH, free T3, free T4) are non-negotiable. It’s also not safe if you have adrenal problems or a history of heart disease without careful monitoring. And while it’s natural, it’s still a powerful medicine. Don’t switch on your own.

People often ask how it compares to Synthroid or Levoxyl. Those are pure T4. Armour Thyroid includes T3, which some bodies use more directly. That’s why it’s popular among those who don’t respond well to T4-only meds. It’s also cheaper than some newer brand-name options, though prices vary by pharmacy. You’ll find it in many online pharmacies, but make sure you’re buying from a verified source—counterfeits are out there.

There’s a lot of noise online about thyroid health. Supplements, detoxes, keto diets. But if your thyroid isn’t working, no amount of turmeric will fix it. Armour Thyroid doesn’t cure hypothyroidism—it replaces what your body can’t make. And for thousands of people, that’s enough to get their life back.

Below, you’ll find real, practical guides on how Armour Thyroid interacts with other meds, what to expect when switching from levothyroxine, how to read your labs, and what to do if you’re still not feeling right—even after adjusting your dose. No fluff. Just what works.