Synthroid
Generic name: Levothyroxine
Synthroid capsules
What are Synthroid capsules?
Synthroid acts as a replacement for people whose thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. Synthroid can improve symptoms of thyroid deficiency such as slow speech, lack of energy, weight gain, hair loss, dry thick skin and unusual sensitivity to cold. Synthroid also helps to treat a condition called goiter, which is an enlarged thyroid gland.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take Synthroid?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
- angina
- diabetes
- heart disease
- high blood pressure
- low levels of pituitary hormone
- dieting or on a weight loss program
- previous heart attack
- an unusual or allergic reaction to Synthroid, other thyroid hormones, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
- pregnant or trying to get pregnant
How should I take Synthroid?
Take Synthroid (Levothyroxine) by mouth with a full glass of water. Take it on an empty stomach, 30.60 minutes before a meal. Do not crush or cut open the capsules. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of Synthroid in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
What drug(s) may interact with Synthroid?
- amiodarone
- antacids
- calcium supplements, like Tums® and many others
- carbamazepine
- cholestyramine
- colestipol
- digoxin
- female hormones, including contraceptive or birth control pills
- ketamine
- medicines for colds and breathing difficulties
- medicines for diabetes
- medicines for mental depression
- medicines or herbals used to decrease weight or appetite
- phenobarbital or other barbiturate medications
- phenytoin
- prednisone or other corticosteroids
- rifabutin
- rifampin
- soy isoflavones
- sucralfate
- theophylline
- warfarin
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What side effects may I notice from taking Synthroid?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
- difficulty breathing, wheezing, or shortness of breath
- chest pain
- excessive sweating or intolerance to heat
- fast or irregular heartbeat or pulse rate
- nervousness
- skin rash or hives
- swelling of ankles, feet or legs
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
- changes in appetite
- changes in menstrual periods
- diarrhea
- fever
- hair loss
- headache
- irritability
- nausea, vomiting
- tremors
- trouble sleeping
- weight loss
What should I watch for while taking Synthroid?
If you are taking Synthroid for an underactive thyroid, it may be several weeks before you notice an improvement. Check with your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if you develop any of the above side effects. It may be necessary for you to take Synthroid for the rest of your life; do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice.
Do not switch brands of Synthroid unless your prescriber agrees with the change. Ask your doctor for advice if you are uncertain.
If you are going to have surgery, tell your doctor that you are taking Synthroid.
Where can I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from light and moisture. Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
- Most popular quantity.
