Thyroid

Pronunciation

Brand Names

Therapeutic Categories

What is this medicine used for?

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

How does it work?

• Thyroid works to fuel some of the metabolic processes (eg, growth, development, and glucose/protein/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?

• Ineffective or dangerous when used for weight loss.
• If you are 65 or older you will be started on a very small dose.
• Use caution if you have heart disease. Talk with healthcare provider.
• If you are allergic to tartrazine dye, be cautious (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?

• Thyroid function tests (blood test) need monitoring. 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).

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