NDT brands: what they are and which names you’ll see
If your doctor or online searches brought you to NDT (natural desiccated thyroid), you probably want plain answers: what is it, which brands exist, and how do they differ from synthetic thyroid meds? NDT is made from pig thyroid and contains both T4 and T3 hormones. That combo is why some people say they feel better on NDT than on levothyroxine alone.
Common NDT brand names you’ll run into include Armour Thyroid, Nature‑Throid, NP Thyroid, WP Thyroid, and ERFA. Compounded NDT is another option people mention. Brand formulations can change over time, and availability varies by country, so expect some names to be regional or appear/disappear from pharmacies.
Practical points before you try an NDT brand
Don’t stop or switch meds on your own. Talk with your prescriber and plan lab checks. When changing brands or moving from synthetic T4 to NDT, TSH and clinical symptoms should guide dosing — not just a gut feeling. Labs are usually checked 6–8 weeks after a change because thyroid levels take time to settle.
Start low and monitor. NDT pills contain both T4 and T3; T3 works faster and can cause jitteriness or palpitations if the dose is too high. If that happens, the dose often needs lowering or spacing out. Some people prefer splitting doses or using lower-strength tablets to find the right balance.
Safety, storage and interactions
Be consistent with when and how you take it: take thyroid medication on an empty stomach, ideally 30–60 minutes before breakfast or 3–4 hours after a meal. Avoid calcium, iron, or antacids within four hours of your dose — they block absorption.
Watch for fillers and allergies. Some brands use different inactive ingredients; if you react to a filler, switching brands or a compounded version might help. Store tablets in a dry, cool place away from sunlight.
Ordering online? Be cautious. Only use reputable pharmacies, check for proper regulation and clear contact info, and avoid unusually low prices that seem too good to be true. If you buy from abroad, prepare for different labeling and strengths.
Keep a medication list and symptom log. Note dose changes, side effects, heart rate, sleep, energy, and digestion. That record makes follow-up visits more useful and helps your clinician adjust treatment faster.
Want more background and guides? We have related reads on GlobalCareRx like “Best Supplements for Thyroid Support” and “Exploring the Link Between Hashimoto’s Disease and Thyroid Cancer.” Those pages cover nutrients, autoimmune links, and practical monitoring tips that pair well with any discussion about NDT.
If you’re weighing NDT brands, focus on stable dosing, clear lab follow-up, and working with a clinician who listens. NDT can help some people, but it needs careful monitoring and sensible expectations.
