Synthroid

Generic Name: Levothyroxine Sodium

US Brand Name: Synthroid

Other Brand/Trade Names: Levothyroxine Sodium is marketed under many trade names around the world, including: Berlthyrox; Dexnon; Eferox; Lévothyrox; Levothyroxine

Uses

Levothyroxine Sodium is a naturally occurring hormone produced by the thyroid. It is important for normal energy and metabolism. For a variety of reasons, the body may not produce enough of this hormone on its own. In these cases, Levothyroxine Sodium is taken to replace the body's natural thyroid hormone. It is also given to people who have goiter.

Active Ingredients: Levothyroxine Sodium

Inactive Ingredients: Acacia, confectioner's sugar (contains corn starch), lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate, povidone, and talc.

Dosage and Forms

Levothyroxine Sodium comes as tablets and injection powder for reconstitution.

Dosages vary according the age groups and the individual condition of the patient, body weight and compliance to the medication and diet. Maximum dosage may reach 300 mcg per day but that is rare. Take this medication on an empty stomach with a full glass of water. It is usually taken as a single daily dose before breakfast. For children who cannot swallow whole tablets, crush the tablet and mix in 1 or 2 teaspoons of water.

Symptoms of overdose may include: chest pain, nervousness, trouble sleeping, rapid heartbeat, nausea, headache and fever, shortness of breath, heat intolerance, increased appetite, decreased weight and diarrhea.

Contraindications and Precautions

Hypersensitivity to Levothyroxine Sodium or any component of the formulation; recent MI or thyrotoxicosis; uncorrected adrenal insufficiency. Before using this medication, tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: heart problems, diabetes, male or female infertility problems, bone loss disease, other hormone disorders, other thyroid problems, blood clotting disorders, any allergies.

Side Effects

This drug may cause following serious side effects: an allergic reaction, vomiting or chest pain, irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath. Talk to your doctor or try another similar medication if you experience tremor, nervousness, or irritability, headache, insomnia, diarrhea, changes in appetite or weight loss, leg cramps, menstrual irregularities or fever, sweating or heat sensitivity.

Interactions

Before using this medication, tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription drugs you may use, especially of: warfarin, digoxin, estrogen products, diabetes medicines, amiodarone, iodide, lithium, anti-thyroid agents, androgens/anabolic steroids, glucocorticoids, high dose salicylates, phenobarbital, rifamycins, beta blockers, antidepressants, cytokines, growth hormones, ketamine, theophylline. Certain foods may decrease absorption of this medication when taken at the same time. Take Levothyroxine Sodium separately from: soybean flour, walnuts, dietary fiber. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor approval.