This medication should not be used for weight loss. Normal doses of this medication will not work for weight loss, and large doses of this medication may cause serious, possibly fatal side effects, especially when taken with diet pills.
This medication should not be used for weight loss. Normal doses of this medication will not work for weight loss, and large doses of this medication may cause serious, possibly fatal side effects, especially when taken with diet pills.
Uses
Levothyroxine is used to treat an underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism). It replaces or provides more thyroid hormone, which is normally produced by the thyroid gland. Low thyroid hormone levels can occur naturally or when the thyroid gland is injured by radiation/medications or removed by surgery. Having enough thyroid hormone is important for normal mental and physical activity. In children, having enough thyroid hormone is important for normal mental and physical development.This medication is also used to treat other types of thyroid disorders (such as thyroid cancer).This medication should not be used to treat infertility unless it is caused by low thyroid hormone levels.
How to use
Read the Patient Information Leaflet and Instructions for Use if available from your pharmacist before you start taking levothyroxine and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually once daily on an empty stomach, 30 minutes to 1 hour before breakfast.
If you are using the medication that comes in a bottle, carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose. Take the medication directly from the measuring device. Do not mix with any other liquid.
If you are using the medication that comes in an ampule, the medication may be taken by first mixing it in water, or it may be taken directly (without water). To take it by mixing in water, open the ampule as directed. Then turn the ampule upside down and slowly squeeze the soft (middle) part of the ampule to empty the contents into a glass or cup of water. Release pressure and wait a few seconds. Repeat squeezing and releasing the ampule at least 5 times, until no more liquid comes out of the ampule. Stir the solution and drink all of the liquid right away. Rinse the glass or cup with more water and drink to make sure you have taken all the medicine. Do not prepare a supply ahead of time. To take this medication directly, slowly squeeze the soft (middle) part of the open ampule to empty the contents into the mouth or onto a spoon. Release pressure and wait a few seconds. Repeat squeezing and releasing the ampule at least 5 times, until no more liquid comes out of the ampule. Take all of the liquid right away.
The dosage is based on your age, weight, medical condition, and response to treatment.
Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day.
Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Thyroid replacement treatment is usually taken for life.
There are different brands of levothyroxine available. Do not change brands without first consulting your doctor or pharmacist.
Certain medications (such as cholestyramine, colestipol, colesevelam, antacids, sucralfate, simethicone, iron, sodium polystyrene sulfonate, calcium supplements, orlistat, lanthanum, sevelamer, among others) can decrease the amount of thyroid hormone that is absorbed by your body. If you are taking any of these drugs, separate them from this medication by at least 4 hours.
Symptoms of low thyroid hormone levels include tiredness, muscle aches, constipation, dry skin, weight gain, slow heartbeat, or sensitivity to cold. Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it gets worse after several weeks of taking this medication.
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Selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First Databank, Inc. This copyrighted material has been downloaded from a licensed data provider and is not for distribution, except as may be authorized by the applicable terms of use.
CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.