Levothyroxine FAQ
What is Levothyroxine used for?
Levothyroxine is used to treat an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism). It is a replacement for a hormone that is normally produced by your thyroid gland.
What are the common side effects of Levothyroxine?
Common side effects may include temporary hair loss, changes in your menstrual periods, and sweating more than usual.
How do I take Levothyroxine?
Take Levothyroxine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets.
Can Levothyroxine be used for weight loss?
Levothyroxine should not be used to treat obesity or weight problems. Dangerous side effects or death can occur from the misuse of this medicine, especially if you are taking any other weight-loss medications or appetite suppressants.
What should I avoid while taking Levothyroxine?
Avoid use of soy products, coffee, tea, or other products within 3 hours of taking Levothyroxine. These can make Levothyroxine less effective if taken at the same time.
What happens if I overdose on Levothyroxine?
Overdose symptoms may include headache, leg cramps, tremors, feeling nervous or irritable, chest pain, shortness of breath, and fast or pounding heartbeats.
Can I use Levothyroxine during pregnancy?
Yes, it is important to continue taking Levothyroxine to keep your thyroid hormone at the right level. Your dose needs may change if you are pregnant.
How long does it take for Levothyroxine to work?
It may take several weeks before your body starts to respond to Levothyroxine. Keep using this medicine even if you feel well. You may need to use this medicine for the rest of your life.
Can I stop taking Levothyroxine once I feel better?
Even if you feel well, you may still need to take Levothyroxine every day for the rest of your life to replace the thyroid hormone your body cannot produce.
Is Levothyroxine safe for children?
Yes, Levothyroxine is safe for children as long as it is used exactly as prescribed. Children may need regular growth checks while using this medication.
Can I take Levothyroxine with other medications?
Be sure your doctor knows if you also take birth control pills, hormone replacement therapy, amiodarone, or other medications to treat high blood pressure or heart disease. These can affect the way Levothyroxine works.
Can Levothyroxine cause allergic reactions?
Seek medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to Levothyroxine, such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Can Levothyroxine be used to treat depression?
Levothyroxine should not be used to treat depression or any other mood disorder. It is important to use this medication only as prescribed by your doctor.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Levothyroxine?
Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.
Can Levothyroxine cause heart problems?
Levothyroxine can increase the risk of heart problems, especially if you are taking certain medications. It is important to discuss your medical history with your doctor before using this medication.
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Information provided by Dr. Nithya Priya Raju. Reviewed by Dr. Mohamed El Khouly