Thyroid hormone is utilized to treat underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone.
It is a natural product derived from animal thyroid glands, typically sourced from pigs. This hormone replaces or supplements the thyroid hormone normally produced by the thyroid gland.
Low levels of thyroid hormone can occur naturally or due to thyroid gland injury caused by radiation, medications, or surgical removal.
Adequate thyroid hormone levels are essential for maintaining normal mental and physical activity. In children, sufficient thyroid hormone is crucial for normal mental and physical development.
This medication is also used to treat other types of thyroid disorders, such as certain types of goitres and thyroid cancer, and for testing thyroid function.
It should not be used to treat infertility unless low thyroid hormone levels are the cause.
Older adults should discuss the risks and benefits of this medication with their doctor or pharmacist before use.
Dosage and administration
Take this medication orally as directed by your doctor, usually once daily on an empty stomach, 30 minutes to 1 hour before breakfast.
The dosage is determined based on your medical condition, laboratory tests, and response to treatment. For children, the dosage is also influenced by age and weight.
Use this medication regularly to derive the most benefit. To aid in remembering, take it at the same time each day.
Do not discontinue this medication without consulting your doctor first. Thyroid replacement treatment is typically lifelong.
Certain medications (such as cholestyramine, colestipol, colesevelam, antacids, sucralfate, simethicone, iron, sodium polystyrene sulfonate, calcium carbonate, orlistat) can reduce the body’s absorption of thyroid hormone. If you are taking any of these drugs, separate them from this medication by at least 4 hours.
There are various brands of thyroid hormone available. Do not switch brands without consulting your doctor or pharmacist.
Symptoms of low thyroid hormone levels may include tiredness, muscle aches, constipation, dry skin, weight gain, slow heartbeat, or sensitivity to cold. Inform your doctor if your condition worsens or persists after several weeks of taking this medication.
Side effects
Hair loss may occur during the initial months of treatment with this medication. This side effect is typically temporary as your body adjusts to the medication. If hair loss persists or worsens, inform your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that you have been prescribed this medication because your doctor has determined that the benefits outweigh the risks of side effects. Many individuals using this medication do not experience serious side effects.
Notify your doctor immediately if you experience any serious side effects associated with high thyroid hormone levels, including increased sweating, sensitivity to heat, mental or mood changes (such as nervousness or mood swings), tiredness, diarrhea, shaking (tremor), headache, or shortness of breath.
Seek medical assistance promptly if you encounter any very serious effects of high thyroid hormone levels, such as chest pain, fast or irregular heartbeat, swelling of the hands, ankles, or feet, or seizures.
While a severe allergic reaction to this medication is rare, seek medical help immediately if you notice symptoms such as rash, itching or swelling (especially of the face, tongue, or throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
This list does not encompass all possible side effects. If you notice any other effects not mentioned above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
Before taking thyroid hormone, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it or pork products or if you have any other allergies. This medication may contain inactive ingredients that could trigger allergic reactions or other issues. Discuss this with your pharmacist for more details.
Prior to using this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have conditions such as increased thyroid hormones (thyrotoxicosis), decreased adrenal gland function, heart disease (such as coronary artery disease or irregular heartbeat), high blood pressure, or diabetes.
Before undergoing surgery, ensure your doctor or dentist is aware of all the products you use, including prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal supplements.
Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, particularly chest pain, and fast or irregular heartbeat.
Current information suggests that this drug may be used during pregnancy. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, as your dose may need to be adjusted.
Thyroid hormone passes into breast milk but is unlikely to harm a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Additional information
Brand Name:
NP Thyroid
Scientific Name:
Natural Thyroid
Other Names:
NP Thyroid
Strength(s):
15mg, 30mg, 90mg
Quantities Available:
60, 90
Formulation:
Tablet
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Natural Thyroid
