Generic Synthroid (Levothyroxine)

Common Use
Synthroid contains levothyroxine sodium, a synthetic form of the thyroid hormone identical to that produced by the thyroid gland. It is used alone or with diet pills to treat primary (thyroidal), secondary (pituitary), tertiary (hypothalamic) hypothyroidism, subclinical hypothyroidism, and obesity.

Dosage and Direction
Dosage is individualized. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and do not exceed the recommended dose.

Take Synthroid once daily, 0.5 to 1 hour before breakfast with a full glass of water.

Separate Synthroid intake from medications that interfere with its absorption by at least 4 hours.

Do not stop treatment without your doctor’s permission, even if you do not feel immediate effects. It may take several weeks to see the medication’s full effects.

You may require Synthroid treatment for life to replace thyroid hormone deficiency.

Precautions
Use caution when treating patients with cardiovascular disease, elderly patients, and individuals with concomitant adrenal insufficiency.

Contraindications
Do not use Synthroid if you have:

Untreated subclinical or overt thyrotoxicosis

Acute myocardial infarction

Uncorrected adrenal insufficiency

Possible Side Effects
Common side effects may include:

Headache, insomnia, nervousness, irritability

Hyperactivity, anxiety, emotional lability

Fever, tachycardia, arrhythmias

Hot flashes, sweating

Menstrual period changes, appetite changes

Diarrhea, vomiting, weight changes

Hair loss, flushing

Drug Interactions
Inform your doctor about all medications, herbal products, and supplements you use, especially:

Calcium carbonate (Oystercal, Caltrate, Citracal)

Sodium polystyrene sulfonate (Kayexalate, Kionex)

Ferrous sulfate (iron supplements)

Sucralfate (Carafate)

Aluminum-containing antacids (Rulox, Tums, Maalox, Mylanta, Riopan, Amphojel, Gaviscon)

Cholesterol-lowering drugs colestipol (Colestid) and cholestyramine (Questran)

Warfarin, digoxin, estrogen products

Diabetes medicines, amiodarone, iodide, lithium

Anti-thyroid agents, phenobarbital, rifamycins

Beta blockers, antidepressants, growth hormones

Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take an extra dose to make up for a missed one.

Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include pounding heartbeat, chest pain, tremors, leg cramps, confusion, disorientation, shortness of breath, vomiting, diarrhea, or seizures. Seek emergency medical help if you experience these symptoms.

Storage
Store Synthroid at room temperature between 59–77°F (15–25°C), away from light, moisture, children, and pets. Do not use after the expiration date.

Disclaimer
This information provides general guidance and does not cover all directions, possible drug interactions, or precautions. It should not be used for self-treatment or diagnosis. Always follow your healthcare provider’s specific instructions. We disclaim responsibility for any damages resulting from use of this information or self-treatment.