Why Is TSH Level High When T3 And T4 Levels Are Normal While Taking Levothyroxine?

Posted on Tue, 6 Mar 2018

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Tue, 6 Mar 2018 Answered on

Fri, 25 Jan 2019 Last reviewed on

Question : I had my thyroid tested recently and I been on Levothyroxine for 10- 15 years and my TSH was 14.85 but my T3 and T4 levels were normal? When I called my doctor he scheduled me an apt for 2 weeks out and said he will discuss it with me then but I would like an explanation now if you could?

Answered by Dr. Mirjeta Guni (36 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
About Levothyroxine dose.

Detailed Answer:

Hello,

The TSH result you reported is high suggesting of a low dose of Levothyroxine even though the dose you are taking is relatively high.

Before increasing the dose you must be sure that you have taken the tablet regularly, with an empty stomach and have not eaten breakfast for at least another 30 minutes.

Perhaps your treating physician will suggest how to increase the dose after a detailed clinical examination and if there is any cause that interferes with Levothyroxine absorption.

Hope the information will help.

Regards,
Dr. Mirjeta Guni
Endocrinologist

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee