What is Levothyroxine Levothyroxine is a naturally occurring hormone produced
by your thyroid. It is important for normal energy and metabolism.
For a variety of reasons, your body may not produce
enough of this hormone on its own. In these cases, Levothyroxine
is taken to replace your body's natural thyroid hormone.
Levothyroxine is also used to prevent and treat goiter (growth
or enlargement of the thyroid gland). Causes of goiter include
hormonal imbalances, radiation, surgery, and cancer.
Levothyroxine may also be used for purposes other than those
listed in this medication guide.
Who should not take Levothyroxine Since thyroid hormone occurs naturally in your body,
almost anyone can take this drug. In general, Levothyroxine
should not be taken if you have other hormonal problems
that are not being adequately treated.
Before taking
this medication, tell your doctor if you have a heart disease
such as coronary artery disease, hypertension, or angina.
These conditions may be affected by thyroid therapy, and
closer monitoring may be necessary at the start of therapy.
Changes in blood sugar may occur if you have diabetes,
and special monitoring may be necessary.
Levothyroxine
is in the FDA pregnancy category A. This means that Levothyroxine
is safe for use during pregnancy. It is also safe to take
thyroid hormones if you are breast-feeding a baby. This
drug does pass into breast milk, but it will not harm a
nursing infant.
How should take Levothyroxine Take this medication exactly as directed by your
doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your
doctor, nurse, or pharmacist to explain them to you.
Take each dose with a full glass (8 ounces) of water.
Take this medication at the same time each day whenever
possible. Thyroid hormone is usually taken in the morning
to prevent insomnia at night. Follow your doctor's instructions.
Do not stop taking this medication for any reason
without talking to your doctor first. It may take several
weeks for you to start feeling better. Once you start feeling
all right, do not stop taking Levothyroxine. You will probably
need to take this medicine for the rest of your life.
Do not change brands of Levothyroxine or change to a generic
drug without first talking to your doctor.
Store
Levothyroxine at room temperature away from moisture and
heat.
If you miss a dose: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However,
if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed
dose and take only your next regularly scheduled dose. Do
not take a double dose of this medication.
What happens if you overdose: Seek emergency medical treatment.
Symptoms
of a Levothyroxine overdose include chest pain, nervousness,
trouble sleeping, tremor, rapid heartbeat, nausea, headache,
fever, sweating, shortness of breath, heat intolerance,
irregular menses, increased appetite, decreased weight,
diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
Avoid while taking Levothyroxine Do not stop taking this medication suddenly.
Do not change brands of Levothyroxine or change to a generic
drug without first talking to your doctor.
Possible side effects of Levothyroxine If you experience any of the following serious side
effects, stop taking Levothyroxine and seek emergency medical
attention:
- an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing;
closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or
face; or hives);
- vomiting; or
- chest pain,
irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath.
Other,
less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue
to take Levothyroxine and 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.
Side effects
other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your
doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that
is especially bothersome.
What other drugs will affect Levothyroxine Other drugs may bind to Levothyroxine and reduce
the amount that is available in your body, making it less
effective. Separate Levothyroxine doses from the following
medicines:
- antacids that contain aluminum;
-
the prescription ulcer medicine sucralfate (Carafate);
-
the cholesterol-lowering drugs cholestyramine (Questran)
and colestipol (Colestid); and
- ferrous sulfate
(a type of iron supplement).
Drugs
other than those listed here may also interact with Levothyroxine
or affect your condition. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist
before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.
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