Description
Indications
Thyroid medication is utilized to treat underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism). When the thyroid gland is unable to produce sufficient thyroid hormone levels, this medication helps to replace or supplement the necessary hormones. The symptoms of hypothyroidism comprise fatigue, depression, constipation, weight gain, hair loss, dry skin, dry coarse hair, muscle cramps, reduced concentration, aches and pains, leg swelling, and increased sensitivity to cold.
This medication is also utilized to treat other types of thyroid disorders (such as certain types of goiters, thyroid cancer) and to assess thyroid function. It should not be used to treat infertility unless it is caused by low thyroid hormone levels.
Uses and Dosage
Thyroid is administered orally in the form of tablets, typically taken once a day before breakfast at the same time each day. Adhere to the instructions on the prescription label, and if any aspect is unclear, seek clarification from your physician or pharmacist.
To achieve optimal outcomes, follow the prescribed dosage accurately without adjusting the dose, frequency or duration of administration without the guidance of a healthcare professional.
In most cases, thyroid treatment is initiated at a low dose, gradually increasing to the target dose over time.
Although thyroid medication can alleviate the symptoms of hypothyroidism, it does not provide a cure. Improvement in symptoms may not be observed for several weeks, and treatment with thyroid medication may be necessary throughout the patient’s lifetime. Do not discontinue thyroid treatment without consulting your physician.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- change in appetite
- hair loss
- headache
- nausea
- vomiting
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- anxiety, nervousness
- excessive sweating or sensitivity to heat
- fever
- heart palpitations
- fast or irregular heartbeat
- dizziness
- feeling faint or lightheaded
- chest pain
- trouble breathing
- irregular menstrual cycles or spotting
- severe diarrhea
- tremors or shaking
- trouble sleeping
Caution
Prior to initiating thyroid hormone therapy, inform your healthcare provider or pharmacist of any allergies you may have, including hypersensitivity to thyroid hormone, pork products, or any other allergies. The medication may contain inactive constituents capable of inducing allergic reactions or other complications.
Prior to using this medication, provide your doctor or pharmacist with your medical history, notably if you have hyperthyroidism, reduced adrenal gland function, cardiovascular disease (such as coronary artery disease, arrhythmias), hypertension, or diabetes.
Older adults may be more susceptible to the adverse effects of this medication, particularly chest pain and fast, irregular, or pounding heartbeat.
Present information indicates that this drug may be used during pregnancy. Notify your doctor if you are pregnant, as a dose modification may be necessary.
Form and Strength
Thyroid is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
Thyroid tablet:
- 30mg
- 60mg
- 125mg
FAQ
When is the best time to take desiccated thyroid?
It is best to take on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes to one hour before breakfast.
How soon after taking thyroid will I feel better?
You should start to feel better a few days after you begin taking medicine. But it may take a few months for your thyroid hormone levels to get back to normal.
Resources
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/18645-thyroid-capsules-or-tablets#:~:text=It%20is%20best%20to%20take,provider%20tells%20you%20to%20stop
- https://www.webmd.com/women/guide/low-thyroid-treatment#:~:text=You%20should%20start%20to%20feel,need%20to%20change%20your%20treatment
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/18645-thyroid-capsules-or-tablets
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682475.html
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/thyroid-desiccated.html