Name of the Drug
Synthroid (Levothyroxine)
Uses of the Drug
Synthroid helps in treating hypothyroidism (low thyroid hormone). It also treats or prevents goiter (enlarged thyroid gland), that occurs due to radiation treatment, hormone imbalances, cancer, or surgery.
How to Take
Synthroid should be taken as per doctor’s directions:
- Take this drug on empty stomach, half an hour before eating.
- Take Synthroid along with adequate water.
- You should take Synthroid in morning.
You should consult your doctor in case of any query about its usage.
Drug Mechanism and Class
Synthroid is the replacement of thyroxin produced by the thyroid gland for regulating the metabolism and energy of the body. When thyroid gland cannot produce sufficient amount of the hormone, Synthroid is prescribed.
Missed Dose
If you ever miss a dosage of Synthroid and are taking it regularly, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.
Storage
Synthroid should be stored at the room temperature somewhere between 20 to 25 degrees C (68 to 77 degrees F). It should be kept away from children and pets. Synthroid should be stored away from light, moisture and heat.
Warnings Precautions
Synthroid should NOT be taken if:
- you are prone to allergies to a single ingredient present in Synthroid;
- You have any record of chest pain (angina), heart attack, elevated thyroid hormone levels, or adrenal gland problems, which were not treated.
You should get in touch with the doctor very soon if you notice any of the above-mentioned problems.
Important:
- Synthroid might rapidly disintegrate and swell thus causing gagging, choking, therefore, the tablet may get stuck in the throat. Therefore, take it with adequate amount of water.
- Tell your dentist or doctor that you are taking Synthroid prior to receiving any dental or medical care, surgery, or emergency care.
- If you take blood thinners while taking Synthroid, some lab tests would be needed for adjusting your blood thinners.
- Diabetes patients - Synthroid might affect the level of blood sugar. Check levels of blood sugar. The dosage of the diabetic medicine should be taken carefully.
- Lab tests would be done for monitoring therapy.
- Children below 6 years should carefully use this drug. This might affect the height of the children.
- Breast-feeding and Pregnancy: Synthroid can cause harmful effects to your fetus. If you conceive, consult with your medical professional about the risks and benefits of taking this drug during pregnancy. Synthroid may be secreted through the breast milk. Therefore, breast-feeding should be strictly avoided when you are taking Synthroid.
Common Side Effects
All medicines can have side effects. However, there are some people who have either less or no side effects. Check whether you have any of the side effects as mentioned below and in that case consult your doctor as soon as possible:
* anxiety; flushing; diarrhea; muscle weakness; mood swings; sleeplessness; partial, temporary hair loss; tiredness; stomach cramps; vomiting.
You should consult your doctor immediately in case you have the serious side effects as mentioned below:
* Serious allergic reactions (hives; rash; itching; tightness in chest; difficulty in breathing; swelling of face, lips, mouth, or tongue); changes in menstrual periods; changes in appetite; chest pain; excessive sweating; difficulty breathing; fast heartbeat; hives or skin rash; fever; headache; hyperactivity; irregular heartbeat; inability to handle warm or hot room/weather conditions; irritability; nervousness; leg cramps; seizures; pounding in chest; tremors; shortness of breath; weight loss or weight gain.
More Information
You should consult your pharmacist in case of any query. This medicine should be exclusively used by only the patient. Do not share Synthroid with some other people. In case the symptoms persist, consult your doctor immediately.
