About Synthroid
Synthroid is used as a replacement for those whose thyroid glands do not produce enough of the thyroid hormone. Synthroid can also be used to improve the symptoms of a thyroid deficiency such as lack of energy, slow speech, weigh gain, hair loss, an unusual sensitivity to the cold, and dry thick skin. Synthroid has also helped to treat an enlarged thyroid gland which is sometimes called a goiter.
Your Prescribing Doctor Must Know
Tell your physician if you have experienced any of these conditions for Synthroid:
- Diabetes mellitus
- Low levels of pituitary hormone
- Heart disease
- Angina
- Previous heart attack
- An unusual or abnormal reaction to levothyroxine, other thyroid hormones, medications, foods, dyes or preservatives
- High blood pressure
- Dieting or on a weight loss program
If you are pregnant, breast feeding or currently trying to become pregnant, make sure your doctor is aware of your maternal condition; as Synthroid may not be recommended for certain situations.
Administering Synthroid
It is important that you leave regular intervals between every dose of medication. Doing so will help the efficiency of this drug. Every prescription comes with instructions on the reverse side of each bottle or packaging. It is important that you follow the written instructions carefully as not all of them are identical.
Synthroid tablets should be taken orally on an empty stomach 30 to 60 minutes before a meal with a glass of water. Remember, when taking Synthroid or any prescription drug to always follow the label closely. Be sure to place doses evenly and do not take more than directed.
Synthroid should only be taken as instructed by a professional physician. Be sure to remember not to stop taking this medicine without consulting your physician first about how to stop safely. If you are researching this medication for your child, keep in mind that children often have special dosage instructions. Ask your physician about these differences prior to starting this medication if this is the case.
What if I Miss a Dose of Synthroid
In the event that a dose of Synthroid was missed, take one as soon as you can. But if your next scheduled dose is near, wait until that next dose is due and just skip the one you’ve already missed.
Caution: You should NEVER take double or extra doses of Synthroid. Always ask your physician further about missed doses, as he may have special instructions.
Conflicting Medications
Always consult the doctor who prescribed Synthroid to you; as this is only a partial interacting medicines list:
- Warfarin
- Rifampin
- Amiodarone
- Sucralfate
- Rifabutin
- Digoxin
- Colestipol
- Soy isoflavones
- Antacids
- Ketamine
- Phenytoin
- Theophylline
- Carbamazepine
- Calcium supplements such as Tums
- Female hormones including contraceptive or birth control pills
- Cholestyramine
- Medications for colds and breathing difficulties
- Prednisone or other corticosteroids
- Medications for mental depression
- Medications or herbals used to decrease weight or appetite
- Phenobarbital or other barbiturate medications
It is important that your physician knows if you are currently taking any medications along with Synthroid; as there may be conflicting interaction. Let your physician know if you:
- Are a smoker
- Use any other legal or illegal drugs or substances
- Consume alcohol or caffeine on a regular basis
All of the activities listed above could affect the results you see from taking Synthroid.
Synthroid Common side effects
The following are side effects known to be common of Synthroid and they are experienced by users. These are common, side effects but if you feel uneasy or they persist do not hesitate to contact your physician.
- Hair loss
- Changes in menstrual periods
- Fever
- Irritability
- Changes in appetite
- Headache
- Diarrhea
- Leg cramps
- Nausea or vomiting
- Weight loss
- Tremors
- Trouble sleeping
None of the above listed side effects require immediate medical attention. If you continue to experience these Common side effects for a few days, consult your prescribing physician for more advice. It is very important that you do not try to treat these symptoms on your own. Note: that elderly patients have a higher likelihood of experiencing side effects.
Synthroid Least Common side effects
The following side effects are rare and should not be taken lightly. If you experience any of these less common side effects from taking Synthroid consult your healthcare professional immediately. The following are less common side effects associated with Synthroid:
- Chest pain
- Nervousness
- Fast or irregular heartbeat or pulse rate
- Excessive sweating or intolerance to heat
- Skin rash or hives
- Difficulty breathing, wheezing or shortness of breath
- Swelling of ankles, feet or legs
It is important that you contact your physician right away if you've experienced any of the Less Common side effects listed above.
Synthroid Precautions
You should receive physical checkups on a regular basis; especially while taking prescription medicines. This is an easy way to monitor your progress and ensure your physical health as well. Your body may build up a dependency on Synthroid and you may experience dizziness or drowsiness up to a few days after you stop taking this medication.
Patients are advised not to operate heavy machinery or automobiles until the full effect of Synthroid is known. Do not consume alcohol while taking Synthroid. Make sure your doctor is aware of upcoming surgeries you may have scheduled; or will be scheduling while taking this medication.
Contact your doctor for professional advice if you experience a cold, coughs or allergies. You should not try to treat yourself for such symptoms. Some ingredients found in other medications may have conflicting affects while taking Synthroid and may affect desired results. Synthroid cannot be given to any person without a prescription. Sharing Synthroid is against the law.
How To Store Synthroid
The following is general storage information for Synthroid:
- It is important that you store Synthroid at temperatures between 59 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Make sure Synthroid is kept away from direct sunlight and moisture.
- Be sure to store Synthroid out of reach of any pets or small children; in a small childproof container.
- Dispose of any expired or unused Synthroid properly.
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Your article states not to take this medication and alcohol...first time I have seen this comment. Why do you so state?
so i can not take isoflavones capsules at all because i am on synthroid not even 2 hours after i take my meds
Conditions of USE: The prescription drug information on this database is to be used for instructional purposes only; it is not intended to substitute for the knowledge of a healthcare professional. Please consult a physician before and while you are taking Synthroid. If you experience any other side effects while taking Synthroid please consult an experienced professional. This database does not contain all the information regarding Synthroid nor is it intended to cover all possible directions, side effects, and uses. If you need more information regarding Synthroid, contact your physician or any other healthcare provider.
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