Indications
Levoxyl (active ingredient: levothyroxine sodium) is a prescription medication indicated for the following:
- Hypothyroidism: Levoxyl is used for the treatment of hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid), including congenital hypothyroidism, primary hypothyroidism, and myxedema coma.
- Thyroid Hormone Replacement: It is indicated as replacement therapy in patients with thyroid hormone deficiency of any etiology, except transient hypothyroidism during the recovery phase of subacute thyroiditis.
Levoxyl belongs to a class of drugs known as thyroid hormones, which work by supplementing or replacing the naturally occurring thyroid hormones in the body to achieve normal thyroid function.
Uses and Dosage
Levoxyl is a medication that commonly comes in the form of a tablet, which is taken orally by mouth as directed by your doctor. Typically, it is taken once a day on an empty stomach, usually about 30 minutes to 1 hour before breakfast.
Levoxyl tablets should be swallowed whole with a full glass of water, and should not be chewed, crushed, or split before swallowing. This ensures that the medication is properly released and absorbed by the body and helps to achieve optimal therapeutic effects. If you have difficulty swallowing the tablet whole, talk to your doctor about the possibility of crushing and mixing it with a small amount of water.
The dose of the medication commonly varies based on the patient's age, weight, and medical condition, and it must be taken exactly as prescribed by a healthcare professional.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Levoxyl (Levothyroxine):
- Changes in your menstrual periods
- Chest pain
- Irregular heartbeats
- Diarrhea
- Feeling hot
- Headache
- Leg cramps
- Muscle pain or weakness
- Increased appetite
- Shortness of breath
- Skin rash
- Partial hair loss
- Tremors
- Feeling nervous or irritable
- Trouble sleeping
- Weight loss
Serious Side Effects of Levoxyl (Levothyroxine):
- Chest pain,
- Pain spreading to your jaw or shoulder
- Dryness of your skin or hair
- Hair loss
- Fast or irregular heartbeats
- Feeling nervous or irritable
- Fever, hot flashes, or sweating
- Headache, leg cramps, or muscle aches
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Memory problems
- Feeling depressed or irritable
- Shortness of breath
- Tremors, or if you feel unusually cold
- Vomiting, diarrhea, appetite changes, or weight changes
- Weakness, tiredness, or sleep problems (insomnia)
Allergic Reactions of Levoxyl (Levothyroxine):
- Hives
- Difficult breathing
- Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat
Form and Strength
Levoxyl (Levothyroxine)) is available in the following forms and strengths:
Levoxyl: Tablet
- 0.05 mg
- 0.1 mg
- 0.15 mg
Caution
- The use of LEVOXYL, either alone or with other therapeutic agents, for the treatment of obesity or weight loss is not recommended.
- Larger doses of LEVOXYL may indeed produce serious or even life-threatening manifestations of toxicity, particularly when given in association with sympathomimetic amines such as those used for their anorectic effects.
- Patients with coronary artery disease who are receiving suppressive LEVOXYL therapy should be monitored for cardiac arrhythmias during surgical procedures. Additionally, patients who are receiving both LEVOXYL and sympathomimetic agents should be closely monitored for signs and symptoms of coronary insufficiency/
- If cardiovascular symptoms develop or worsen, the LEVOXYL dose should be reduced or withheld for one week and then restarted at a lower dose.
- In euthyroid patients, doses within the range of daily hormonal requirements are ineffective for weight reduction.
- Inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you may have before taking levothyroxine. This is because the medication may contain inactive ingredients that could cause an allergic reaction or other issues. You can speak to your pharmacist for more information on this matter.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I take levothyroxine?
Levothyroxine is usually taken once a day on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before breakfast. It should be taken at the same time every day.
What should I do if I miss a dose of levothyroxine?
If you miss a dose of levothyroxine, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and take your next dose as scheduled.
Can I take other medications while taking levothyroxine?
Some medications may interact with levothyroxine, including antacids, calcium supplements, and iron supplements. Consult with your doctor before taking any new medications or supplements.
How long does it take for levothyroxine to start working?
It may take several weeks or even months for levothyroxine to reach its full effect in managing hypothyroidism.
Can levothyroxine be taken during pregnancy?
Yes, levothyroxine can be taken during pregnancy to manage hypothyroidism. In fact, it is important for pregnant women to maintain adequate thyroid hormone levels for proper fetal development.
Resources
- https://www.drugs.com/levoxyl.html
- https://www.dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=758588c3-c63e-491b-0aa2-4f50d80cb174
- https://www.goodrx.com/levoxyl
- https://www.dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=758588c3-c63e-491b-0aa2-4f50d80cb174
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/levothyroxine-oral-route/proper-use/drg-20072133
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