Armour Thyroid is a prescribed medication used to treat hormonal imbalances of the thyroid, according to Drugs.com. Armour Thyroid consists of hormones naturally produced by the thyroid gland. These hormones are responsible for controlling the body's metabolism and energy. Side effects associated with Armour Thyroid are usually due to large dosages, reports eMedTV.com.
Weight Gain
The main function of the thyroid hormone is to regulate metabolism. An underactive thyroid often creates slow metabolism within the body and subsequent weight gain, notes MayoClinic.com. Armour Thyroid is used to treat hypothyoidism which aims to eliminate or reduce hypothyroid symptoms such as weight gain. Hypothyroidism, a thyroid hormonal imbalance, increases appetite, aches, pains, high cholesterol and muscle weakness. An inadequate dosage of Armour Thyroid may allow weight gain and other symptoms to continue or worsen, reports Drugs.com.
Cardiovascular Effects
Excessive amounts of Armour Thyroid can contribute to several cardiovascular side effects including increased heart rate, chest pain, heart failure, heart palpitations, increased blood pressure, heart attack, trouble breathing or pained breathing, reports Drugs.com. This occurs because the heart must work harder as the body's metabolism increases in order to meet oxygen demands. These side effects can signal serious conditions or complications and should be evaluated by a medical professional.
Hyperthyroidism
The most common side effect of Armour Thyroid medication is hyperthyroidism symptoms. According to MayoClinic.com, hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid produces excessive hormones. Hyperthyroidism can significantly accelerate the body's metabolism and create side effects including irregular heartbeat, sweating, weight loss, irritability, nervousness, chest pain or heart palpitations. Patients who experience any of these symptoms should contact a physician for medication adjustment or further evaluation.
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