Drug Name: Levothroid
Brand Names: Eltroxin, Euthyrox, Levo-T, Levotabs, Levothroid, Levoxyl, Synthroid, Unithroid
Generic Name: levothyroxine
Uses: Levothroid is used for the treatment of hypothyroidism and goiter. Hypothyroidism is a condition in which there is a low level of thyroid function and goiter is a growth or enlargement of the thyroid gland. Sometimes the thyroid gland may not be producing enough hormones and this is where the drug works. Levothroid, a synthetic product containing the hormone levothyroxine, replaces the natural thyroid hormone of the body to maintain a balance in the system.
How to use: Levothroid should be taken at the same time each day to get the best results. It is usually taken in the morning to prevent insomnia. This happens if it is taken in the evening. Each dose is taken with a full glass of water. You should not stop taking it unless directed by your doctor. Even if you feel that the symptoms have been treated, this does not mean that your thyroid imbalance has been restored. You may still need to take it everyday even if you already feel well.
Side Effects: Some mild side effects that may occur in taking Levothroid are tremor, nervousness, irritability, headache, insomnia, diarrhea, changes in appetite, weight loss, leg cramps, menstrual irregularities, fever, sweating and heat sensitivity. These do not require immediate medical attention but you still need to inform your doctor about this. More serious side effects that require immediate attention are allergic reactions which include difficulty breathing, closing of the throat, hives and swelling of the lips, tongue or face, vomiting, chest pain, irregular heartbeat and shortness of breath.
Precautions: It is necessary to inform your doctor about any other conditions that you may be having aside from the ones to be treated by Levothroid. This especially includes heart disease such as coronary heart disease, hypertension and angina, diabetes and other hormonal problems. Heart diseases may be affected by the treatment and there may be changes in your blood sugar as you take Levotrhroid. Monitoring would be essential in these conditions.
Drug Interaction: Other drugs may interact with Levothroid and affect its effectiveness. These drugs include antacids containing aluminum, sucralfate, cholestyramine, colestipol and ferrous sulfate.
Overdose: Chest pain, nervousness, difficulty sleeping, tremor, rapid heartbeat, nausea, headache, fever, sweating, shortness of breath, heat intolerance, irregular menses, increased appetite, decreased weight, diarrhea and abdominal pain may be some of the symptoms experienced in case of an overdose. Medical attention should be sought immediately if overdose is suspected.
Notes: Thyroid hormones, like Levothroid, should not be used for the treatment of obesity.
Missed Dose: Take the missed dose as soon as you have remembered. Skip it though if it is nearly time for the next one and just proceed to your regular schedule. Never double up your dosage.
Important Note: You should not change brands without first consulting your doctor. Levothroid products may not be interchangeable.
Storage: Levothroid should be kept away from moisture and heat. It should be stored at room temperature.
Additional Levothroid informatiion:
Medical information about Levothroid
Drug details and Doctor's prescription
