Synthroid
Synthroid is a hormone replacement medication that helps people that have certain thyroid conditions. Normally the thyroid is responsible for creating and releasing certain hormones into the body. When it fails to do so, your metabolism and energy are greatly affected. To help replace the hormone, Synthroid, also known as levothyroxine is prescribed.
Synthroid is the Most Commonly Prescribed Drug! (3)
Why Synthroid Is Prescribed
Synthroid can be used to treat conditions of low thyroid hormone, also called hypothyroidism or to prevent an enlarged thyroid gland, also called goiter. These conditions can be caused by quite a few conditions including hormonal imbalances, radiation treatment, cancer, or surgery. A doctor can use their discretion and prescribe this medication for reasons that are not listed here as well.
Risks of taking Synthroid
When prescribed Synthroid, it’s important that you tell your doctor of any and all allergies you might have. Just because you aren’t allergic to the active ingredients doesn’t mean that one of the seemingly harmless inactive ingredients doesn’t affect you.
In addition to alerting your doctor about your allergies, you also need to tell him/her if you have certain medical conditions that could affect the efficacy of the medication. If you have an adrenal gland disorder, thyrotoxicosis, or any recent symptoms of a heart attack, you have to alert your doctor before taking Synthroid.
While Synthroid does aid in the proper function of the body’s metabolism, it should not be used as a weight loss supplement. You can experience very dangerous side effects, including death if you combine levothyroxine with other weight loss supplements.
How to take Synthroid
Your doctor will provide you with details directions on how to take Synthroid. While you might be prescribed a specific dosage in the beginning, it may change as time passes to ensure that you are getting the right results. Throughout the time that you take Synthroid, your doctor will likely order routine blood testing. Do not increase or decrease your dosage without the okay from your doctor.
You absolutely must take your levothyroxine with an 8 oz glass of water as the medication dissolves and swells very quickly and there is a serious risk of choking.
If you see other doctors or dentists, make sure to let them know that you are on Synthoid.
You might not see the results from Synthroid right away. It can take up to 30 days to see an effect. Once you feel better, don’t take that as a sign to stop taking your medication. It’s quite possible that you have to take this medication for a long period of time to promote the proper amount of hormones being released into your body.
What do I need to avoid while taking Synthoid?
Your doctor should give you a complete list of what to avoid. They are likely to include:
• Calcium Carbonate: Often used as antacids. Tums, Rolaids, Oyster Shell, etc.
• Antacids with Aluminum or Magnesium: Maalox, Milk of Magnesia, Mylanta, Pepcid, etc.
• Sulfate Iron Supplements
• Sodium polystyrene sulfonate: (Kalexate, Klonex)
Be sure to discuss all your concerns or questions with your medical professional about taking Synthroid.
References:
2. http://www.drugs.com/
3. IMS Health Report Data May 2014
