Uses

Synthroid (Levothyroxine) fulfills the same functions as natural thyroid hormone. These effects involve the breakdown and metabolism of sugar, and the production of essential proteins. Synthroid (Levothyroxine) is used to treat hypothyroidism, myxedema coma, goiter, and thyroid cancer.

How to Use

Take this medication by mouth with water. Take it on an empty stomach 30 minutes before food, or 2 hours after food. Take it at the same time every day.

Take it exactly as directed, do not take it more than directed.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is already almost time for your next dose, take only that next dose. Do not double up on any dose.

Important Information

Be sure to take this medication with plenty of fluid in order to avoid the pill sticking to your mouth or throat which can lead to choking.

Inform your healthcare provider if symptoms do not improve.

It may take a few weeks before this medication begins to work. Do not stop taking it unless directed by your doctor. Notify your doctor if symptoms do not improve.

Check with your doctor before switching brands of this medication.

If you are getting surgery, inform your doctor or surgeon that you have been taking this medicine.

If you are diabetic, monitor your blood sugar closely while on this medicine because it can affect your blood sugar levels.

Upon initiation of the medicine you may lose some of your hair, this corrects itself over time in most cases.

Be sure that your prescribing doctor is aware if you have any of the the following conditions before taking this medication

History of heart attacks, angina, pituitary gland conditions, high thyroid hormone, heart conditions, fertility problems, currently dieting or trying to lose weight, diabetes, blood clot conditions.

Side effects that should be immediately reported to your healthcare provider

Allergic reactions(hives, itching, rashes, swelling of the face or mouth), trouble breathing, chest pain, fast or irregular heartbeat, nervousness, skin rash, hives, swelling of the feet or ankles, tremors.

Other Side Effects

Appetite changes, menstrual cycle changes, diarrhea, hair loss, headache, trouble sleeping, weight loss, fatigue.

Adult Dose

Primary Hypothyroidism(Under 50 years old)

1.7 mcg/kg by mouth once daily. For patients with cardiac disease the dose should be started at 25-50mcg by mouth once daily and gradually increased by between 12.5 and 25 mcg’s at 6-8 week intervals to the usual maintenance dose of 100 -150mcg/day.

Over 50 years old with no other health conditions

25-50mcg by mouth once daily. The dose is then gradually increased by between 12.5 and 25 mcg at 6-8 week intervals. For patients with cardiac disease the dose is started at between 12.5 and 25mcg  once daily and gradually increased every 4-6 weeks.

Sources

1. Tirosint oral capsules, levothyroxine sodium oral capsules[package insert]. Cranford, NJ: Akrimax Pharmaceuticals,(Per FDA); 2012.

2. Synthroid ® oral tablets, levothyroxine sodium oral tablets. North Chicago, IL: Abbott Laboratories; 2008.