Background Information for Synthroid
Synthroid is typically used as a hormone replacement therapy for a hormone normally produced by the thyroid to control your body’s energy and metabolism. Hypothyroidism occurs when you have an underactive thyroid. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved levothyroxine sodium for treatment of hypothyroidism. Some familiar brand names for levothyroxine sodium are Synthroid, Levoxyl, and Levothroid. Synthroid can also be used for other purposes, including the treatment or prevention of goiter. Synthroid has been manufactured since 1955.
WARNING: Before taking Synthroid, tell your doctor if you have heart disease, coronary artery disease, anemia, diabetes, adrenal or pituitary gland problems, or a history of blood clots. Tell your dentist if you are taking Synthroid before any other medications are administered to you.
The FDA announced in October 2007, that it was requiring tighter potency specifications for levothyroxine sodium to ensure that the medication retains its effectiveness over the shelf-life of the product. This FDA action came after some endocrinologists expressed concern in 2005 about the performance of the levothyroxine sodium products. Many patients who are prescribed Synthroid must take the medication every day for the rest of their lives. Side effects can occur when a patient suddenly stops taking Synthroid or if the medication has lost its potency over time.
WARNING: Different brands of levothyroxine sodium may not work the same. Do not change brands or use the generic version of Synthroid without consulting your doctor. Stop using Synthroid and seek emergency medical attention if you experience allergic reactions including: hives, rash, difficulty breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Things You Should Know About Synthroid
I have been taking Synthroid for about five years, as does four other members of my family. One thing is for sure when you are prescribed Synthroid: try very hard not to miss a dose. Make sure you read the two-page Synthroid advisory message that comes with the prescription. There are things you must do and other medications you must avoid so that you don’t reduce the body’s ability to absorb Synthroid.
Simple things like taking vitamins, minerals, herbal products, antacids containing aluminum, products like Citracal, iron supplements, and cholesterol-lowering drugs can reduce the effectiveness of Synthroid if taken at the same time. Wait 4 hours after taking Synthroid to take other prescription or over-the-counter products that your doctor has approved.
WARNING:Medical problems can occur if you use Synthroid with lithium amiodarone, or antidepressants. Tell your doctor if you have recently received radiation therapy with iodine, such as I-131. There are many other drugs that interact with Synthroid and levothyroxine. Check with your doctor before taking any new medications. Visit the Synthroid website for more information.
Synthroid requires several weeks to actually take effect. Your doctor will need to constantly monitor your progression while using Synthroid. It is common for your doctor to change the doses of Synthroid until the right hormone level is achieved. Even if you feel well, do not suddenly stop taking the medication. Mild side effects you may experience during the use of Synthroid include:
weight change
appetite change
headache
nervousness
sleep problems or insomnia
irritable feeling
fever, hot flashes, sweating
changes in menstrual periods
mild hair loss
WARNING:If you miss a dose – do not take extra medication to make up the missed dose. Most side effects from Synthroid and other levothyroxine sodium drugs result from an overdose of the drug. I borrowed several Synthroid pills from a relative when I forgot mine while traveling. I thought it was better to take a higher dose than to miss a dose. The borrowed pills were 5 times stronger than mine and I had serious side effects from overdosing. Some of the symptoms from overdosing on Synthroid include:
chest pain
pounding heartbeat
tremor
leg cramps
confusion
vomiting
diarrhea
seizures
You should ALWAYS consult your doctor immediately if you are taking Synthroid and experience any side effects or changes in your health.
Sources:
http://www.fda.gov/consumer/features/thyroid010208.html
http://www.synthroid.com/AboutSynthroid.cfm
Pharmacy Advisory Instructions Accompanying Prescription
