Uses:
To treat hypothyroidism, a condition where
the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone
To treat enlarged thyroid glands, also called goiter
To treat thyroid cancer
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How it works
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Levothyroxine increases the body's metabolic rate,
which increases:
oxygen consumption
respiratory rate
heart rate
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*Absorption of the drug varies from 48-79% after taking
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Therapeutic Effects
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When evaluating for therapeutic effects, conditions that should be
considered are:
increased energy
level of alertness and interest in surroundings
increased blood pressure and pulse rate
bowel movement regularity/reduced constipation
healthy skin and hair
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Side Effects
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Most Common:
decreased bone density
fatigue
weight loss
hair loss
insomnia
joint pain
skin rash
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vomiting or diarrhea
headache
fever
leg cramps
changes in appetite
heat sensitivity
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Most Severe:
atrial fibrillation
fast or weak pulse
disorientation
sudden headache
loss of coordination
loss of consciousness
heart attack
heart failure
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Dosage Range
(adults and children 12 yrs and older)
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Oral capsules: 1.7mcg/kg
Oral solution: starting dose is 1.7mcg/kg, adjusted as needed
Oral tablet: 1.6mcg/kg
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*Dosage varies by form and use, these dosage
ranges focus on treatment of hypothyroidism
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Drug Interactions
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Medications that interfere with the absorption of Levothyroxine:
antacids
ferrous sulfate (iron supplement)
calcium carbonate
Lanthanum
Cholestyramine
Colesevelam
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*These medications can still be used while taking
levothyroxine, just separate administration times
by 4-6 hours
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Patient Teaching
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Thyroid hormone is required for normal body function. When the thyroid
gland is unable to produce enough thyroid hormone, levothyroxine is a
synthetic substitute.
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Dosage adjustments may occur over time based on clinical response and
results of thyroid function tests.
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For best results, Levothyroxine should be taken first thing in the morning,
30 minutes before breakfast.
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Take Levothyroxine at the same time every day for more consistent
body metabolism.