Synthroid

Common Name: levothyroxine

How does Synthroid work?

Levothyroxine is a thyroid hormone supplement used to treat people who do not produce enough thyroid hormone on their own. Levothyroxine helps to reduce the symptoms of low thyroid hormone such as weight gain, sensitivity to cold, lack of energy, and dry skin. It may take several weeks for this medication to have a noticeable effect on your condition. Your doctor may choose to use a medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you're unsure why you are taking this medication, contact your doctor.

How should I use Synthroid?

You should take this medication once a day, at the same time every day to ensure a consistent effect. The dose of levothyroxine depends on how much of the hormone is needed to bring blood levels back to the normal range. This is determined by blood tests that are done in a laboratory. The starting dose will depend on the general physical condition of the person taking the medication and the severity and duration of time that symptoms of low thyroid hormone levels have been present. Signs that you may be getting too much thyroid hormone may include chest pain, increased heart rate, palpitations, excessive sweating, heat intolerance, and nervousness. If you think your dose of thyroid hormone may be too high, consult your doctor as soon as possible. Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones given here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor. It is important that this medication be taken regularly and exactly as prescribed by the doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without talking with your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue on with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue on with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

What form(s) does Synthroid come in?

Tablet

What should I NOT take with Synthroid?

Levothyroxine should not be taken by anyone who: is allergic to levothyroxine or to any of the ingredients of the medication has acute thyrotoxicosis (too much thyroid hormone in their system) is having a heart attack has uncorrected adrenal insufficiency

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Synthroid?

Diabetes: Levothyroxine raises blood sugar levels. For people with diabetes, this may result in an increase in the requirements for insulin or anti-diabetes medications. Monitor your blood glucose more closely when starting or changing doses of this medication. Heart disease: When starting levothyroxine, people with heart disease should use caution, as it may cause the heart to work harder than it has been used to. Breast-feeding: The use of appropriate amounts of this medication by breast-feeding women has not been shown to cause harm for nursing babies. Pregnancy: When this medication is used to regulate the levels of thyroid hormone, treatment is considered necessary for pregnant women. Seniors: Seniors may be more sensitive to the effects of levothyroxine and should use this medication with caution.