NP Thyroid Dosage Chart: How to Choose the Right Dose
If you’ve been prescribed NP Thyroid, the first thing you’ll wonder about is “how much should I take?” The answer lives in a simple dosage chart, but the chart only makes sense if you know a few basics first. Below we break down what NP Thyroid is, why the dosage varies, and how to read the chart without guessing.
What’s in NP Thyroid?
NP Thyroid is a natural desiccated thyroid (NDT) made from dried porcine thyroid tissue. Each tablet contains a mix of levothyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) in a fixed ratio – about 4 µg T3 for every 60 µg T4. Because the body gets both hormones at once, many patients notice steadier energy levels compared with synthetic T4‑only pills.
However, that same blend means the dose isn’t a one‑size‑fits‑all number. Factors like age, weight, symptom severity, and other meds all shift the sweet spot. That’s why the dosage chart starts with a range rather than a single figure.
Reading the NP Thyroid Dosage Chart
Most charts list starting doses in milligrams (mg) or tablets per day. A typical layout looks like this:
- Adults new to thyroid replacement – 30 mg (½ tablet) to 60 mg (1 tablet) daily.
- Patients already on synthetic T4 – 60 mg (1 tablet) to 90 mg (1½ tablets) daily.
- Older adults or those with heart disease – start at 30 mg and increase very slowly.
Here’s how to use those numbers:
- Identify your starting point. If you’ve never taken thyroid medication, begin at the lowest recommended dose (usually 30 mg). If you’re switching from levothyroxine, your doctor may suggest a dose closer to 60 mg.
- Track symptoms. Keep a simple log of energy, mood, weight, and any side effects like palpitations or insomnia. Record the dose you’re on and how you feel after a week.
- Adjust in small steps. If you’re still sluggish after two weeks, increase by 15 mg (¼ tablet). If you feel jittery, drop back down.
- Check blood work. A TSH test every 6‑8 weeks tells you if the dose is on target. Aim for the range your doctor set – usually 0.5‑2.0 mIU/L for most adults.
Don’t try to guess the perfect dose on your own. The chart is a guide, not a rule. Your doctor’s input and lab results keep the process safe.
When you finally land on a stable dose, most people stay on it for months or years. The key is consistency – take your tablet at the same time each day, preferably on an empty stomach, and avoid calcium or iron supplements within four hours.
Remember, the dosage chart is only a starting point. Your body will tell you if it needs more or less, and your doctor will confirm with labs. Follow the chart, listen to your body, and you’ll find the dose that keeps you feeling steady.
