Nicole asked
Can I take Armour Thyroid and Lexapro together?
Answer
Lexapro (escitalopram) and Armour Thyroid (desiccated thyroid) can safely be taken together. There is no interaction between them.
However, as with most thyroid replacement medications, Armour Thyroid is recommended to be taken by itself, first thing in the morning on an empty stomach with at least 8 ounces of water for optimal absorption and consistent effects.
Lexapro (escitalopram) is not known to affect thyroid hormone levels and thus should not pose a problem for individuals diagnosed with either hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.
Armour Thyroid Information
Armour thyroid, also known as desiccated thyroid, is naturally occurring thyroid hormone derived from the thyroid glands of pigs. As Armour Thyroid is a desiccated thyroid product, it contains both levothyroxine (T4) and liothyronine (T3). One 64.8mg (1 grain) tablet of Armour Thyroid provides 38 mcg levothyroxine (T4) and 9 mcg liothyronine (T3).
Armour Thyroid also contains other molecules the thyroid gland secretes such as diiodothyronine, monoiodothyronine, and calcitonin.
Historically, due to large variations in levothyroxine (T4) and liothyronine (T3) in desiccated thyroid products such as Armour Thyroid, they have not been used or prescribed as often as synthetic levothyroxine (brand name Synthroid), which can have more reliable and consistent hormonal content.
In fact, Armour Thyroid is not a FDA approved medication and was "grandfathered" in due to its clinical use prior to the FDA approval process. Nevertheless, Armour Thyroid certainly has a place in therapy for certain individuals.
While levothyroxine (brand name Synthroid) is more commonly used, Armour thyroid may be a good option for individuals whose bodies cannot convert T4 to T3, the active form of thyroid or have other problems such as defective thyroid hormone transporters.
To ensure optimal and consistent absorption of Armour Thyroid, it is important to take on an empty stomach with at least 8 ounces of water. It should be taken at least 30 to 60 minutes before breakfast or other food.
It is important to note that Armour Thyroid generally has a strong odor and is animal derived.
Lexapro (Escitalopram) Information
Lexapro (escitalopram) is a SSRI (selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitor) used in the treatment of depression and generalized anxiety disorder. As the generic name suggests, Lexapro (escitalopram) is similar to citalopram but only contains the active enantiomer of the drug.
Data is mixed regarding whether or not Lexapro is more effective than citalopram but it is known to have less drug interactions.
SSRI medications, like Lexapro, work by increasing the amount of the neurotransmitter serotonin available in the brain. Lexapro typically needs to be dosed consistently for 2-4 weeks for clinically significant effects.
Lexapro, like all SSRIs, are associated with potential side effects such as weight fluctuations (gain and loss), headache, dizziness, QT prolongation and sexual dysfunction.
Summary
- There is no interaction between Armour Thyroid and Lexapro.
- However, Armour Thyroid is generally recommended to be taken by itself on an empty stomach for optimal and consistent absorption.
