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| Levothyroxine |
What is Levothyroxine? Levothyroxine is a medication used
to treat
hypothyroidism. More commonly known as an underactive
thyroid. In this condition, individuals
produce adequate amounts of the hormone thyroxine.
Levothyroxine, therefore, acts to replace the missing
hormone, thyroxine. Levothyroxine is not available over the counter
and can only be obtained via a prescription from your
doctor.
A variety of medicinal preparations such as tablets and
liquids. This medication is safe
to use in pregnancy and in breastfeeding mothers. Amongst
hypothyroid children, smaller doses
guided by a paediatrician can be used.
Who should not take levothyroxine? You should avoid
taking this medication if:
• You have had a previous allergic reaction
to this type of medication.
• You have an overactive thyroid, where
your thyroid already produces too much thyroid
hormone
• Patients with conditions of the adrenal
glands.
Importantly, levothyroxine is not a suitable
weight-loss treatment. If abused this medication have
serious and even life-threatening consequences. If you are seeking support with
weight loss, please consult with your regular family doctor. Is it safe to take
omeprazole with my current
medications? Certain medications should not be taken at
the same time as your levothyroxine.
• You should take the following medications
at least 4 hours after taking your levothyroxine:
o calcium salts or iron supplements
o Cholesterol-lowering medications such as:
Cholestyramine
Colestipol
Colesevelam
• Sucralfate
• Antacids
• And … Orlistat
Additionally, some prescribed medications
may influence the effectiveness of your levothyroxine.
In some cases, increased doses of levothyroxine
are required. These medications include:
• Antiepileptic Medication
• Oestrogen supplements
• Rifampicin
• Amiodarone
Levothyroxine itself can influence how the
effectiveness of other drugs. Therefore, you may require
dose adjustments if you are taking:
• Medications to control your diabetes
• Blood-thinning medications including;
Warfarin This is not an exhaustive list. For further
info please see the drug information leaflet that comes
with your medication.
What is the correct dose of levothyroxine? Newly
diagnosed patients start with a small
dose of levothyroxine, which increased slowly, to achieve
the desired effect. This dose is determined by your doctor, most commonly
between 50-100 micrograms once daily.
Usually, 3 months after starting your medications, you
will require a repeat blood test to assess
your hormone levels. Based on this your doctor may make
dose adjustments. You may require
several blood tests and dose adjustments to get to the
correct dosage.
Once your thyroid hormone levels are stable, you will
only need monitoring on an annual
basis.
How long does Levothyroxine take to work? Your medication
will start working straight
away, however, it may take time for you to notice an
improvement in your symptoms.
How to take Levothyroxine Take your Levothyroxine once
daily, normally
in the morning, on an empty stomach. Aim to take your
medication on its own, with a full
glass of water, 1 hour before food or other morning
medications.
Capsules should be taken whole; it is not advisable to
crush them. If you have trouble
swallowing your tablets, consult your prescribing doctor
or pharmacist about liquid preparations.
Are there any foods I should avoid? Some foods and drinks
can influence how well
your levothyroxine works particularly:
• grapefruit juice
• calcium-rich foods, such as milk, cheese,yoghurt
• soy, walnuts, and cottonseed meal
Additionally, Kelp contains the chemical iodine,
which may worsen your symptoms of hypothyroidism.
Can I Drink Alcohol with this medication? It is safe to
take Alcohol with Levothyroxine.
I have missed my dose what should I do? If you forget to
take your medication, please
take it as soon as you remember.
However, if it is near the time of the next
dose, skip the missed dose. You should be ok to take your
next dose at the regular time.
Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
I have accidentally taken too much medication.
If you have taken too much of this medication
you should speak with an emergency doctor. Overdose of
this Levothyroxine can cause symptoms
of:
• Chest pain, palpitations, or shortness
of breath
• Agitation, confusion, Shaking, and excessive
sweating
• loss of consciousness and even seizures.
How long will I need to take my medication?
Hypothyroidism is a lifelong condition. Therefore,
individuals with this condition will need to take
levothyroxine for life. Stopping your
medication will mean the return of your hypothyroid
symptoms.
Are there any side effects?
The vast majority of those taking Levothyroxine
will not experience any side effects. The more frequently
reported side effects
are:
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea
• Headaches, flushing, agitation and insomnia
• Muscle cramps, tremors, and increased
sweating
Rare but concerning side effects can occur.
If they do, please seek immediate medical
assessment.
• Chest pains
• Palpitations
• Allergic reactions – particularly anaphylaxis
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Please do not ignore professional medical advice in
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you have heard here.
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service.
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