Why is my dog panting and lethargic after starting thyroid medication?

Question

Hi, My Silky, 13 years young, 10 lbs- during routine vet visit. vet says dental cleaning (he's had 2 or 3 times) takes a blood test. Blood work comes back thyroid hormone very low - vet said it was below .5 Tells me he needs to take meds I rush there next get throxine... .02 - 1 time a day. 2 weeks later dog is panting even at rest - sometimes looks like labored breathing - while sleeping! Very lethargic. I started to give him only 1/2 of the pill. I think he was misdiagnosed - how can i know? Pet's info: Dog | Silky Terrier | Male | neutered | 11 years old | 10 lbs

Dr. Elizabeth · Accepted Answer

The only way to know if this is related is to have the thyroid level checked again. I recommend to call your veterinarian and let them know what you are seeing. They will advise on how much medication to give and when to test. The only way to know if Glanni truly has thyroid disease is to stop all medication for at least 2 weeks. Then test a thyroid panel that includes the Total T4, the Free T4 by equilibrium dialysis and the Thyroid stimulating Hormone. This will give you a complete and accurate idea of his thyroid function. I do not advise to make any changes to the medication with out first speaking with your regular veterinarian. Also keep in mind that the behavior could be coincidental and related to something else entirely. Best of luck.

Why is my dog panting and lethargic after starting thyroid medication?

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