Armour Thyroid

Armour Thyroid is a "natural" thyroid replacement medication that is available by prescription. It is made from thyroid glands of pigs and contains two different thyroid hormones. Although the drug is not FDA-approved, it meets certain consistency and potency standards. Armour Thyroid comes in tablet form and is taken once daily. Common side effects include insomnia, hair loss, and hypertension.

What Is Armour Thyroid?

Armour® Thyroid (thyroid USP) is a prescription thyroid medication. It is considered to be a "natural" product, since it is made from thyroid glands of pigs.
 
(Click Armour Thyroid Uses for more information, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Armour Thyroid Shortage

Many people have been frustrated to find that this medication (as well as other similar products) has been very difficult, if not impossible, to obtain lately. Apparently, there is a shortage of raw materials used to make Armour Thyroid. Some people resorted to splitting higher-strength tablets (which were available for a longer period of time than the lower strengths), although the tablets are very difficult to split accurately without crumbling.
 
The manufacturer does not know when this medication will again become available. Until then, discuss your other treatment options with your healthcare provider.
 
**October 2010 Update** After an extended shortage, all strengths of Armour Thyroid are now available.
 

Who Makes It?

The drug is manufactured by Forest Laboratories, Inc.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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