Levothyroxine is a medication used to treat an underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism).
It replaces the missing thyroid hormone your body needs to function normally.
Low thyroid hormone can happen naturally or due to injury, radiation, medication or surgery on the thyroid gland.
This medication is important for normal mental and physical health in adults and children.
Levothyroxine can also be used to treat other thyroid disorders, but not infertility unless caused by low thyroid hormone.
Dosage and administration
Read the information leaflet before you start taking levothyroxine and each time you get a refill. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
Take levothyroxine by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually once daily on an empty stomach, 30 minutes to 1 hour before breakfast.
Swallow the capsule whole. Do not split, crush, or chew it.
For infants or children who cannot swallow whole tablets, crush the tablet and mix it in water. Give it using a spoon or dropper right away. Don’t prepare a supply in advance or mix it in soy infant formula.
The dosage is based on your age, weight, medical condition, test results, and other medications you take. Tell your doctor about all your medications including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products.
Take this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. Take it at the same time each day.
Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor first. Thyroid replacement treatment is usually taken for life.
Tell your doctor if you experience symptoms of low thyroid hormone levels such as tiredness, muscle aches, constipation, dry skin, weight gain, slow heartbeat, or sensitivity to cold.
Side effects
Hair loss may occur in the first few months but is usually temporary. Tell your doctor if it lasts or gets worse.
Serious side effects are rare, but tell your doctor right away about increased sweating, heat sensitivity, mood changes, tiredness, diarrhea, shaking, headache, shortness of breath, bone pain, or easily broken bones.
Get medical help right away for chest pain, fast/irregular heartbeat, swelling, or seizures.
Allergic reactions are also rare, but seek medical help immediately if you experience rash, itching/swelling, dizziness, or trouble breathing.
Precautions
Tell your doctor about any allergies you have before taking levothyroxine.
Talk to your doctor if you have a history of high thyroid hormones, decreased adrenal function, heart disease, high blood pressure, or diabetes.
If you have diabetes, monitor your blood sugar regularly and tell your doctor about any changes. Your diabetes medication, exercise program, or diet may need to be adjusted.
Before having surgery or dental work, tell your doctor or dentist about all medications you take.
Children may be more sensitive to side effects like headache, vision changes, and hip/leg pain.
Older adults may be more sensitive to side effects like fast/irregular heartbeat.
This medication is generally safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding but talk to your doctor first.
Additional information
Brand Name:
Levoxyl
Scientific Name:
Levothyroxine
Other Names:
Eltroxin
Strength(s):
0.05mg, 0.100mg, 0.150mg
Quantities Available:
100
Formulation:
Tablet
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Levoxyl
