Description:
This medication is a drug prescribed to treat an underactive thyroid. This condition is known as hypothyroidism, wherein the thyroid gland fails to produce enough of certain critical hormones. This is a synthetic hormone that replaces the ones typically produced by the thyroid gland to control energy and metabolism.
What is Synthroid used for?
- It prevents or cures goiter, an enlargement of the thyroid gland if the cause of goiter is hypothyroidism. It also prevents or treats goiter resulting from radiation treatment, surgery, cancer, or hormonal imbalance.
- It is used for thyroid hormone replacement therapy to restore the level of thyroid hormone to an ideal range.
Treatment with this prescription drug is usually safe and effective if prescribed in the right dose.
Synthroid Dosing Information:
Synthroid dosage is generally based on the patient’s condition, age, weight, laboratory test results, and response to therapy.
The strength intervals for dosage are usually available in 25-microgram (mcg) as follows: 25 mcg, 50 mcg, 75 mcg, 100 mcg, 125 mcg, 150 mcg, 175 mcg; and 200 mcg.
Dosage is also available for the following strength: 88 mcg, 112 mcg, 137 mcg; and 300 mcg
Your doctor will normally start on a modest dose, then adjust by 12.5 mcg to 25 mcg. as needed. The smallest dose that produces the desired effect is normally prescribed.
Direction:
- It is available as a tablet and should be taken orally.
- Take the tablet daily in the morning, on an empty stomach. Take it every day at the same time, with a full glass of water.
- For children with trouble swallowing tablets, mix the crushed tablet with 1-2 teaspoons of water and immediately give it without food or formula.
- Store at temperatures between 59-86 degrees Fahrenheit, away from light and dampness.
Synthroid Side Effects:
Any of the following short term side effects may possibly manifest during treatment with this Synthroid:
- chest pain
- nervousness
- excessive perspiration
- hives
- difficulty breathing
- swelling of ankles, feet, or legs
- anxiety
- diarrhea
- rapid heartbeat
- sweating
- increased body temperature
Possible side effects of those who take too much Synthroid:
- change in consciousness.
- Clammy skin.
- irregular pulse or heart rate
- lightheadedness.
- sudden headache
- loss of coordination
- slurred speech
Caution when taking Synthroid:
- Drinking Synthroid and coffee reduces absorption by speeding up the drug’s passage through the intestines.
- Avoid using this drug if you have untreated adrenal problems.
- Dietary fiber may reduce the absorption of this medication by your body.
- Excessive use has been linked to increased bone loss, particularly in women following menopause.
- This drug should not be used for weight loss treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How to take Synthroid?
-Take it on an empty stomach at least 30 minutes before a meal for maximum absorption.
What is the relation between Synthroid and coffee?
-When taken with coffee, the medicine may not be adequately digested, resulting in less levothyroxine being absorbed into the system.
When is the best time to take this drug?
-This is best taken at the same time daily, before breakfast.
