Description
Indications
Tirosint is an exceptional thyroid medication as this is free from filler ingredients that may potentially cause issues or have an adverse impact on your treatment.
Levothyroxine is a medication that is prescribed to treat hypothyroidism, a condition characterized by an underactive thyroid gland. It works by replacing or supplementing the thyroid hormone that is typically produced by the gland. Low levels of thyroid hormone can occur naturally or due to factors such as radiation exposure, certain medications, or surgical removal of the gland. Sufficient levels of thyroid hormone are essential for maintaining normal mental and physical activity in adults and normal physical and mental development in children.
This medication can be used to treat other types of thyroid disorders, including thyroid cancer. However, it should not be used to treat infertility unless this drug is caused by low levels of thyroid hormone.
Uses and Dosage
Follow your doctor’s instructions and take this medication orally once a day on an empty stomach, typically 30 minutes to an hour before breakfast. Take this medication with a full glass of water unless your doctor advises otherwise.
If you are prescribed the capsule form of this medication, take it as a whole without crushing, splitting, or chewing it. In case you have difficulty swallowing capsules, use the tablet form instead.
For infants or children who are unable to swallow whole tablets, crush the tablet and mix it with 1 to 2 teaspoons (5 to 10 milliliters) of water, and administer it using a spoon or dropper immediately. Avoid preparing the mixture beforehand or mixing the tablet in soy infant formula. Contact your pharmacist for further guidance.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
Hair loss may occur during the initial few months of treatment with this medication. This side effect is usually temporary and resolves as the body adjusts to the medication. However, if the hair loss persists or worsens, inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.
Remember that your physician prescribed this medication after assessing that its benefits outweigh the potential risks of side effects. In most cases, many individuals taking this medication do not experience any significant side effects.
If you experience any severe symptoms related to high thyroid hormone levels, seek medical attention right away. These symptoms may include:
- Increased sweating
- Sensitivity to heat
- Mental or mood changes, such as nervousness or mood swings
- Fatigue
- Diarrhea
- Tremors or shaking
- Headache
- Shortness of breath
- Bone pain or frequent fractures.
Severe Side Effects
In case of any very severe effects related to high thyroid hormone levels, seek immediate medical help. These symptoms may include:
- Chest pain
- Rapid, pounding, or irregular heartbeat
- Swelling in hands, ankles, or feet
- Seizures
Cautions
Levothyroxine is a medication with a narrow therapeutic index, requiring careful dosage titration to prevent over- or undertreatment, regardless of the indication for use.
Failure to properly manage dosage can lead to several adverse effects, including, but not limited to effects on:
- Growth and development
- Cardiovascular function
- Bone metabolism
- Reproductive function
- Cognitive function
- The emotional state
- Gastrointestinal function
- Glucose and lipid metabolism
Several drugs interact with levothyroxine sodium, which may necessitate adjustments in dosing to maintain the desired therapeutic response.