Drug  title

Levothroid (Levothyroxine)

Usage indications

Levothroid is used for the treatment of hypothyroidism ( low level of thyroid gland hormones). It is also used for the treatment and prevention of bronchocele (thyroid gland increase), which can be caused by hormonal imbalance, radiation therapy, surgery, or cancer.

Application mode

Use  Levothroid in accordance with doctor’s indications.

• take Levothroid by washing it down with a full glass of water (8 oz).
• take this drug 30 minutes before meal.
• Levothroid is usually taken in the morning.

Mechanism of action

Levothroid  replaces hormone which is normally produced by thyroid gland to regulate body energy and metabolism. Levothroid is prescribed when thyroid gland doesn’t produce sufficient amount of this hormone.

Missed doses

If you miss Levothroid during its regular intake take missed doze as soon as possible. If it has happened during   the time for next doze intake avoid missed doze and follow usual schedule. Double dosage intake is prohibited.

Storage

Store Levothroid at the temperature of 68 - 77 F degrees (20- 25  С) in a tightly closed containers, protected from light, heat and humidity. Do not store at bathroom. Do not take these pills after their expiration date is expired. Keep Levothroid away from children and home pets.

Precautions

Do not use Levothroid,  if

• you are allergic to any Levothroid component;
• you have heart attacks history, chest pain (stenocardia), adrenal (gland) diseases or increased level of tireoid hormones.

Important

• Levothroid in pills can distend quickly and cause asthma, nausea as the pill can stuck in the throat or can cause difficulties with swallowing. So it is important to wash the pill out with the full glass of water.
• Inform your doctor or dentist on Levothroid intake before getting any medical or dental assistance, urgent assistance or surgery.
• you need to pass laboratory tests  in case of the intake of the drugs used for the blood dilution simultaneously with Levothroid.
• diabetes. – Levothroid can influence sugar level in the blood. Consult with your doctor and check sugar level in blood.
• laboratory  tests might be necessary for the treatment control. Mind saving the prescriptions.
• children should be extremely cautious with Levothroid intake;
• pregnancy and breast  feeding. Consult your doctor if you are pregnant to discuss advantages and risks of Levothroid intake. Levothroid is absorbed by breast milk so be sure to consult your doctor on  Levothroid influence during breast feeding.

Side Effects

Consult your doctor if any of the most widespread side effects persist or irritate

• agitation, diarrhea, mood changes, muscle weakness, partial temporary loss of hair, insomnia, stomach spasms, tiredness, vomiting.

Be sure to contact your doctor immediately if any of the following serious side effects arise

• heavy allergic reactions (rash, nettle rash, breathing difficulties, chest constraints, mouth, face, lips or tongue edema), appetite changes, changes in periods, chest pain, quick heart beat, breathing difficulties,  increased hyperhidrosis, fever, head ache, nettle rash or rush, hyper activity, irregular heartbeat, irritation, legs spasms, nervousness, spasms, short  breath, weight increase or decrease.

Additional information

Use Levothroid on doctor’s prescription only.
Consult your doctor in case of symptoms non -improvement or getting worse.