Eltroxin (Levothyroxine) FAQs: Navigating Thyroid Hormone Replacement

It's used to treat hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid), which means your thyroid does not produce enough thyroid hormones.

It replaces or provides more thyroid hormone, which is normally produced by the thyroid gland, helping to normalize body energy, metabolism, and growth and development.

Take it on an empty stomach, at least 30 to 60 minutes before breakfast. Consistency in timing maximizes absorption.

Correcting hypothyroidism with Levothyroxine can help to normalize weight if it had been affected by the condition, primarily through water retention and slowed metabolism.

When dosed correctly, side effects are rare but can include symptoms of hyperthyroidism like sweating, sensitivity to heat, nervousness, and insomnia.

Some symptoms improve within a few weeks, but it can take several months for your metabolism to stabilize fully.

Some medications can interfere with its absorption. Discuss all medications you're taking with your healthcare provider.

Yes, taking it at the same time each day helps maintain steady hormone levels in your body.

Yes, and it's crucial to do so if you have hypothyroidism. Your dosage may need adjustment during pregnancy.

Take it as soon as you remember if it's the same day. If you remember the next day, take only your daily dose.

Dosage is based on your weight, age, medical condition, laboratory tests, and response to treatment.

Yes, children with hypothyroidism need to take Levothyroxine to support normal growth and development.

Temporary hair loss may occur during the first few months of treatment. This effect is usually temporary.

It's best to wait at least 30 minutes to an hour after taking Levothyroxine before drinking coffee to ensure optimal absorption.

People with certain thyroid disorders like untreated subclinical or overt thyrotoxicosis and individuals with acute myocardial infarction should not take it.

Yes, but it should be done consistently and on an empty stomach, several hours after your last meal.

In most cases, hypothyroidism is a lifelong condition requiring ongoing treatment.

Yes, dietary fiber, soy, and grapefruit juice can affect its absorption. Separate ingestion times for optimal effectiveness.

No, stopping your medication can cause your symptoms to return. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes.

Proper thyroid hormone levels are essential for fertility. Treating hypothyroidism with Levothyroxine can improve fertility.

In excessive doses, it can lead to increased heart rate, blood pressure, and risk of heart arrhythmia.

It's best to stay with the same brand or generic version to ensure consistent thyroid hormone levels, as there can be variations between different brands.

Initially, every 6 to 8 weeks after starting treatment or changing a dose. Once stabilized, thyroid function tests can be done less frequently.

Over-treatment with Levothyroxine can lead to bone density loss, particularly in postmenopausal women.

Contact your healthcare provider. You may need a dosage adjustment or a different treatment approach.

Calcium and iron can interfere with its absorption. Take Levothyroxine at least 4 hours before or after these supplements.

It can raise blood sugar levels. Diabetic patients should monitor their blood sugar closely and adjust their diabetes medication if necessary.

Incorrect dosages can affect mood. If you experience mood swings, consult your healthcare provider for a possible dosage adjustment.

No, store it at room temperature away from light and moisture.

Smoking can affect your thyroid hormone levels and may necessitate adjustments in your Levothyroxine dosage.

Levothyroxine is synthetic T4, while Armour Thyroid is made from dried animal thyroid glands and contains a mix of T4 and T3 hormones.

Regular exercise doesn't directly affect your Levothyroxine dosage, but a healthy lifestyle can improve overall thyroid health and treatment efficacy.