All About Armour Thyroid

Armour Thyroid (desiccated thyroid) is a prescription medication used to treat hypothyroidism and to reduce thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels in certain individuals. It is available as an oral tablet.

For patients comparing treatment options and researching topics such as NP thyroid vs Armour dosage, understanding how these medications work and how they are prescribed can help support informed discussions with a healthcare professional.

Armour Thyroid basics

Armour Thyroid contains the active ingredient desiccated thyroid. (An active ingredient is what makes a drug work.)

Armour Thyroid is a brand-name drug and is not currently offered in a generic form.

Note: Armour Thyroid has been on the market since before the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) established its current drug approval standards. As a result, it has not undergone the FDA approval process. If you’d like more information about this, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

What are some frequently asked questions about Armour Thyroid?

Below are answers to common questions about Armour Thyroid.

How does Armour Thyroid compare with NP Thyroid or levothyroxine?

Armour Thyroid, NP Thyroid, and levothyroxine are all prescribed to manage hypothyroidism (low thyroid hormone levels). They may also be used to suppress thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) in people with thyroid cancer or in those who have thyroid nodules or goiters.

When evaluating NP thyroid vs Armour dosage, it’s helpful to know that Armour Thyroid and NP Thyroid both contain desiccated thyroid derived from pig thyroid glands and provide two thyroid hormones. Levothyroxine, in contrast, contains a synthetic (human-made) form of one thyroid hormone (T4).

Levothyroxine is FDA-approved for these uses. Armour Thyroid and NP Thyroid were introduced before the FDA’s current approval system and therefore have not been FDA-approved. For more details, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

All three medications are available as oral tablets. Levothyroxine is also offered as a liquid solution and as a powder that can be mixed into a liquid and administered as an intravenous (IV) injection.

Because Armour Thyroid and NP Thyroid share the same active ingredient—desiccated thyroid—they are expected to have similar side effects and dosing considerations. If you’re switching between these products, your clinician may reference resources such as an NP Thyroid vs Armour conversion guide or use a Thyroid conversion calculator to help determine equivalent strengths. However, dose adjustments are individualized based on lab values and symptoms.

Armour Thyroid and NP Thyroid are available only as brand-name drugs. Levothyroxine is a generic medication and also comes in brand-name versions such as Levoxyl, Synthroid, and Unithroid. Generic medications often cost less than brand-name products.

If you have additional questions about comparing these therapies, your doctor can help determine which option best suits your medical history and treatment goals.

* An active ingredient is what makes a drug work.

Does Armour Thyroid cause long-term side effects?

Long-term side effects are considered unlikely. However, because Armour Thyroid became available before the FDA’s modern approval requirements, extensive clinical trials evaluating long-term effects were not conducted.

If you’re worried about ongoing risks—especially when considering long-term thyroid hormone replacement—discuss your concerns with your doctor or pharmacist. Regular monitoring of thyroid levels can help reduce the risk of complications.

Similar drugs

There are other medications that may be used to treat your condition. If you’re considering an alternative to Armour Thyroid, talk with your doctor about options that may be appropriate for you.

Drugs similar to Armour Thyroid include:

• desiccated thyroid (NP Thyroid)
• levothyroxine (Synthroid, Unithroid, Levoxyl)
• liothyronine (Cytomel)

What is Armour Thyroid’s dosage?

Your healthcare provider will determine the Armour Thyroid dosage that’s appropriate for you. The information below outlines commonly used doses, but always follow the dosage prescribed by your doctor.

Form and strength

Armour Thyroid is supplied as an oral tablet in the following strengths:

• 15 milligrams (mg)
• 30 mg
• 60 mg
• 90 mg
• 120 mg
• 180 mg
• 240 mg
• 300 mg

Recommended dosages

Before starting treatment, your doctor will recommend a dose tailored to your specific needs, thyroid hormone levels, and overall health status.

Dosage for hypothyroidism

For hypothyroidism, Armour Thyroid is typically taken once daily. Treatment often begins with a lower dose, which may be gradually increased based on lab results and symptom response. Dose adjustments are made carefully to avoid under- or over-replacement.

Dosage for thyroid nodules and goiters

If you have a thyroid nodule or goiter, your doctor will select a dose based on your condition and TSH levels. Over time, the dosage may be modified to achieve optimal suppression of TSH while minimizing side effects.

Dosage for thyroid cancer

In thyroid cancer, Armour Thyroid may be prescribed to suppress TSH. Your doctor will determine the starting dose and adjust it as needed to reach your therapeutic target.

For additional details about dosing, see this article.

Questions about taking Armour Thyroid

• Can Armour Thyroid be chewed, crushed, or split? The manufacturer hasn’t specified whether the tablets may be chewed, crushed, or divided. If you have difficulty swallowing pills, ask your doctor or pharmacist about possible solutions or alternative treatments.
• Should I take Armour Thyroid with food? No. Armour Thyroid should be taken on an empty stomach, at least 30–60 minutes before your first meal of the day. Food can decrease the drug’s absorption and effectiveness.
• Is there a best time of day to take Armour Thyroid? Yes. It should be taken in the morning, 30–60 minutes before breakfast, and ideally at the same time each day. Consistent timing helps maintain stable hormone levels.
• What if I miss a dose of Armour Thyroid? Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it’s nearly time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once.
• Will I need to use Armour Thyroid long term? In most cases, thyroid hormone replacement is a long-term therapy. Your doctor can provide more details about your expected treatment duration.

Overdose

Do not take more Armour Thyroid than prescribed. Exceeding the recommended amount may cause harmful effects.

What to do in case you take too much Armour Thyroid

If you believe you’ve taken too much Armour Thyroid, contact your doctor right away. You can also call 800-222-1222 to reach America’s Poison Centers or use its online resource. If symptoms are severe, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately, or go to the nearest emergency room.

What are Armour Thyroid’s side effects?

Like most medications, Armour Thyroid can cause mild or serious side effects. The lists below highlight some common reactions but do not include every possible side effect.

Side effects may vary depending on:

• your age
• other medical conditions
• other medications you’re taking

Your doctor or pharmacist can provide more detailed information and strategies to minimize side effects.

Mild side effects

Mild side effects are often related to having too much thyroid hormone in your body. Examples include:

• feeling anxious or nervous
• increased sweating
• more frequent bowel movements

A mild allergic reaction is also possible. See the “Allergic reaction” section below for more information.

Many mild side effects resolve within days to weeks. If symptoms persist or become bothersome, contact your doctor. Adjusting your dosage may help.

Serious side effects

Serious side effects are uncommon but can occur. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience serious symptoms. Call 911 or your local emergency number if you believe you’re having a medical emergency.

Serious side effects may include:

• hyperthyroidism
• severe allergic reaction*

* See below for more information.

Allergic reactionSome people may experience an allergic reaction to Armour Thyroid.Symptoms of a mild allergic reaction may include:skin rashitchinessflushing (temporary warmth, redness, or deepening of skin color)A more severe allergic reaction is rare but possible. Symptoms may include swelling beneath the skin, typically in the eyelids, lips, hands, or feet. Swelling of the tongue, mouth, or throat may also occur and can lead to difficulty breathing.Contact your doctor right away if you have signs of an allergic reaction. If symptoms are severe, call 911 or your local emergency number.

What should be considered before taking Armour Thyroid?

Interactions

Drug interactions can influence how Armour Thyroid works. These interactions may occur with medications, supplements, vaccines, or certain foods.

Armour Thyroid can interact with various medications and some foods.

Before starting treatment, inform your doctor and pharmacist about all prescription and over-the-counter medications you take, as well as any vitamins, herbs, and supplements. This helps reduce the risk of unwanted interactions.

For a more detailed overview, see this in-depth article.

Drug interactions

Other interactions

Foods: Armour Thyroid may interact with soy baby formula. A child’s doctor may advise avoiding soy formula during treatment.

Alcohol: Alcohol is not known to interact with Armour Thyroid and is generally considered safe in moderation. If you have concerns, discuss them with your healthcare provider.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Armour Thyroid is typically not the preferred treatment during pregnancy. Doctors often recommend levothyroxine instead because it provides more T4 hormone, which supports fetal brain development.

It’s unclear whether Armour Thyroid is safe during breastfeeding. If you are breastfeeding or planning to, consult your doctor to evaluate your options.

Birth control

Some birth control pills may interact with Armour Thyroid, potentially reducing contraceptive effectiveness. Speak with your doctor about the most suitable birth control method for you.

Boxed warning

Armour Thyroid carries a boxed warning, the most serious warning issued by the FDA.

This medication should not be used for weight loss. In individuals without a thyroid condition, it is unlikely to promote weight loss and may cause dangerous side effects.

Using Armour Thyroid for weight loss can lead to life threatening complications, such as chest pain and heart palpitations.

If you’re seeking weight management strategies, your doctor can help design a safer and more effective plan.

Other warnings

Armour Thyroid may not be suitable for people with certain health conditions. Tell your doctor if you have:

• heart disease
• diabetes
• adrenal insufficiency
• a history of allergic reaction to Armour Thyroid
• pregnancy
• breastfeeding

What does Armour Thyroid cost?

The price of Armour Thyroid can vary depending on factors such as insurance coverage, pharmacy location, and your prescribed dose.

• Cost information and savings coupons: Visit Optum Perks* for price estimates and coupons.
• Savings program: Ask your doctor or pharmacist about ways to reduce prescription costs.

You can also explore additional resources on saving money on medications.

* Optum Perks is a sister site of HealthEH. Coupons cannot be combined with insurance copays or benefits.

Optum Perks is owned by RVO Health. By clicking this link, we may earn a commission. Learn more.

What is Armour Thyroid used for?

Armour Thyroid is prescribed for adults and certain children to:

• treat hypothyroidism, including Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
• lower thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels in people with thyroid goiters, nodules, or thyroid cancer

In hypothyroidism, the body does not produce enough thyroid hormone. Symptoms may include depression, fatigue (low energy), weight gain, and constipation.

Thyroid goiters, nodules, or thyroid cancer may cause symptoms such as a visible lump in the neck, a scratchy sensation in the throat, or trouble swallowing.

Armour Thyroid works by replacing missing thyroid hormones, which helps normalize hormone levels and reduce TSH. Lowering TSH can help slow or stop the growth of nodules, goiters, or thyroid cancer.

Note: Armour Thyroid has been available since before the FDA’s drug approval process was established and has not been FDA-approved. For more information, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

What to ask your doctor

If you’re considering Armour Thyroid or comparing it with alternatives in terms of dosing and effectiveness, speak openly with your healthcare provider. You may want to ask:

• If this medication isn’t effective, can my dose be adjusted?
• Does Armour Thyroid interact with my current medications?
• Am I at increased risk of hyperthyroidism?

For additional reading, see:

• Dosage Details for Armour Thyroid
• Armour Thyroid and Cost: What You Need to Know

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Disclaimer: HealthEH strives to ensure that all information is accurate, thorough, and current. However, this article is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider before starting or changing any medication. Drug information may change and does not cover all possible uses, instructions, precautions, warnings, interactions, allergic reactions, or side effects. The absence of specific warnings does not mean a medication or combination is safe or appropriate for every individual.