Levothyroxine is the active ingredient in Levothroid tablets. The element belongs to the thyroid hormones and works to improve or replace low levels of thyroxine in the body. Reduced thyroid hormone production can occur on its own or following radiation, medication, or surgical removal of the thyroid gland. Sufficient levels of thyroid hormone are necessary for regular physical and mental functions.
Where to Buy Levothroid
Levothroid tablets are available in strengths that range between 50 mg and 300 mg. You purchase these https://dentistnorthraleigh.com/wp-includes/xenical.html tablets based on your prescribed dosage. If you want to buy the medicine in America, you can do so through a reputable online pharmacy.
Description
The medicine has been circulating in the United States since at least the 1950s. However, it wasn’t until 2000 that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved this use. Levo-T, Levoxyl, Tirosint, and Unithroid are other brand names for this medication.
This artificial thyroid hormone medication effectively treats congenital and age-related hypothyroidism. The latter is more common in women over the age of 60.
Hypothyroidism is when the thyroid doesn’t generate enough hormones for the body to stay at a healthy weight and height. As a result, the person cannot handle as much physical activity as they should. A slow heart rate, cramps, and increased temperature sensitivity are other symptoms of hypothyroidism.
How to Take Levothroid
Before starting treatment with levothyroxine, read the leaflet for instructions on how to take it. You can also consult your healthcare provider (a doctor or a pharmacist) if you have any concerns. Keep in mind that dosage varies from one person to another.
You are to take the medication orally once a day. Unless your doctor specifically instructs you otherwise, take it 30 to 60 minutes before breakfast with a full glass of water.
If you’re taking the capsule, swallow it whole; avoid crushing or chewing it. The tablet version of the medication is recommended for anyone who has difficulty swallowing the capsule whole. In this case, you can grind it and make it into a suspension.
For a baby or toddler who cannot take full tablets, crush the pill and mix it with 1–2 teaspoons of water. Then give the mixture with a spoon or dropper. Don’t dissolve these doses ahead of time, and avoid dissolving the tablet in soy baby food.
It could take 4–8 weeks of treatment with this medication before you notice its effects. Keep in mind that consuming cottonseed meals, dietary fiber, or walnuts will lessen the body’s ability to absorb this medication. You may need to schedule your medication intake so it doesn’t coincide with when you plan on eating these meals.
Furthermore, don’t take this medication immediately after taking grapefruit or grapefruit juice. Do not alter your dose or stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. If you’re worried about side effects, discussing them with your doctor is best.
Dosage for Adults
Your doctor will tell you the exact amount of Levothroid you should take each day. This is because the medication works differently for various people. Your doctor might prescribe the medication based on your weight and condition.
The typical adult dosage ranges from 50 micrograms to 100 micrograms daily, with increases every 4 to 6 weeks. It’s important to do regular check-ins with our healthcare provider to learn how well the medication works for you. If your doctor suspects that Levothroid isn’t helping, they will order periodic blood tests to check your hormone levels.
Dosage for Children
Doctors prescribe these medications for children based on their body weight. However, there’s a general dose range for kids within different age gaps. These are as follows:
- 0-3 months: The dose ranges from 10 to 15 mcg per day for 1kg of body weight.
- 3-6 months: The dose ranges from 8 to 10 mcg daily for 1kg of body weight.
- 6-12 months: This dose ranges from 6 to 8 mcg daily for 1kg of body weight.
- 1-5 years: The dose ranges from 5 ro 6 mcg daily for 1kg of body weight.
- 6-12 years: The dose range from 2 to 3 mcg daily for 1kg of body weight.
What Happens to Missed Doses?
Without skipping a dose, taking the medication exactly as your doctor has instructed is crucial. However, if you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. If it’s already time for your next dosage, then skip the one you missed. It’s not recommended to take double doses.
Side Effects of Levothroid
Like many medications, there are a few side effects you might notice when taking the medication. Symptoms vary from one person to another. In fact, some patients might not experience any side effects.
Some effects this medication might cause are:
- Fever
- Low tolerance of heat
- Extreme fatigue
- Menstrual changes
- Sweating
- Tremors
The list contains only a few of the side effects this medication might cause. If you have any weird feelings, notify your health care provider immediately. Also alert your doctor if you’re pregnant or diabetic, as this will determine what dosage they prescribe.
Levothroid and Other Medications
There are circumstances in which you can’t use Levothroid with other medications. That’s because if they are given at the same time, they may interact and cause bad side effects. So, if you want to take Levothroid with other medications, notify your doctor.
With this, you get a proper prescription for other medications you’ll be taking alongside Levothroid. Also, ensure your doctor knows about any other medications you are taking before starting a new combination.
Storage
Do not remove the tablets from their blister packs until it is time to take them. Tablets may not be well stored when removed from their blister packs.
Keep Levothroid in a cool, dark place with a temperature below 25 degrees Celsius. Heat and humidity destroy these tablets. Avoid keeping these pills in the bathroom or near a sink. Also, store your tablets in a secure location out of the reach of children. Your best option is to stash it away in a cupboard above the floor.
FAQ
- Does Levothroid cause weight gain or loss?
Most times, the medication causes weight loss. You will notice up to a 10% drop in your weight when using it.
- Can I take my thyroid medication at night?
Yes, you can take the medication at night. Just ensure to take it on an empty stomach.