ORIGINAL USES (ON-LABEL)
Hypothyroidism, myxedema coma, thyroid hormone replacement, congenital hypothyroidism, thyrotoxicosis, congenital hypothyroidism, some types of thyroid cancer
BRAND NAME Synthroid, Levoxyl, Levothroid, Eltroxin
DRUG CLASS
Thyroid hormone
DESCRIPTION
Synthroid is used to treat hypothyroidism (low thyroid function). Hypothyroidism is characterized by lethargy, weight gain, and drowsiness. Synthroid acts by providing one of the thyroid gland products which is used by the body to control basic metabolism.
POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS
Muscle cramps, diarrhoea, vomiting, chest pain (angina), awareness of your heart beat (heart palpitations), abnormal heart beats (arrhythmias), difficulty in sleeping (insomnia), headache, flushing, faster than normal heart beat (tachycardia), shaking, usually of the hands (tremor), restlessness, excitability, sweating, fever, intolerance to heat, muscle weakness, weight loss
PREGNANCY AND BREAST-FEEDING CAUTIONS
Pregnancy category A
SPECIAL INFORMATION
Do not confuse: Synthroid / Symmetrel
Transient, partial hair loss may be experienced by children in the 1st few mo of therapy
Take as a single daily dose, preferably before breakfast.
This drug replaces an important hormone and will need to be taken for life. Do not discontinue without consulting your health care provider; serious problems can occur.
Wear a medical ID tag to alert emergency medical personnel that you are on this drug.