Levothyroxine

Pronunciation

Brand Names

Canadian/Mexican Brand Names

Therapeutic Categories

What is this medicine used for?

• This medicine is used as a replacement or supplement for people whose thyroid gland does not work well.

How does it work?

• Levothyroxine works to fuel some metabolic processes. This includes growth and development, and glucose, protein, and fat production in the body.

How is it best taken?

• Take on an empty stomach before breakfast.
• Do not take iron products, antacids, sucralfate, or cholestyramine within 4 hours of this medicine.

What do I do if I miss a dose?

• Take a missed dose as soon as possible.
• If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one. Return to your regular schedule.
• Do not take a double dose or extra doses.
• Do not change brand, dose, or stop medicine without talking with healthcare provider.

What are the precautions when taking this medicine?

• Use caution if you have heart disease. Talk with healthcare provider.
• If you are 65 or older, you may have more side effects.
• This medicine is ineffective and dangerous if used for weight loss.
• Be cautious if you are allergic to tartrazine dye (some tablets contain). Talk to your pharmacist.
• Tell healthcare provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Make sure to tell about the allergy and how it affected you. This includes telling about rash; hives; itching; shortness of breath; wheezing; cough; swelling of face, lips, tongue, throat; or any other symptoms involved.

What are the common side effects of this medicine?

• Chest pain, rapid heartbeat, racing heart, shortness of breath, decreased ability to exercise, increased nervousness or agitation.

What should I monitor?

• Check blood tests for thyroid activity. Talk with healthcare provider.

Reasons to call healthcare provider immediately

• Signs of a life-threatening reaction. These include wheezing; tightness in the chest; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; fits; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Chest pains, fast heartbeats, shortness of breath, or decreased ability to walk.
• No improvement in condition or feeling worse. It may take 1-2 months to feel better.

How should I store this medicine?

• Store in a tight, light-resistant container at room temperature. Protect from moisture.

General statements

• Do not share your medicine with others and do not take anyone else's medicine.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and pets.
• Keep a list of all your medicines (prescription, herbal/supplements, vitamins, over-the-counter) with you. Give this list to healthcare provider (doctor, nurse, pharmacist, physician assistant).
• Talk with healthcare provider before starting any new medicine, including over-the-counter or natural products (herbs, vitamins).

Copyright © 1978-2000 Lexi-Comp Inc. All Rights Reserved