Levothroid (Levothyroxine sodium) is used as a thyroid medication. It is generally prescribed for treating an underactive thyroid and is also used in the treatment of few other thyroid problems. Levothroid (Levothyroxine sodium) is a synthetic thyroid hormone which is utilized as a thyroid hormone replacement drug. Levothroid (Levothyroxine sodium) is a man made version of the principle thyroid hormone, thyroxine which is released by the thyroid gland. The active ingredient of this drug is levothyroxine sodium.
Levothroid (Levothyroxine sodium) is available in two forms – tablet and injection. Generic and branded tablets of Levothroid (Levothyroxine sodium) can differ. They can differ in the amount of the content of levothyroxine, absorption and distribution of levothyroxine. The aim of administrating Levothroid (Levothyroxine sodium) is to preserve a normal blood thyroxine level. Replacement therapy is generally taken for life. For any improvement to occur, several weeks may take place. The medicine should not be stopped without the consulting of your doctor.
Regular laboratory and/or medical tests should be performed so that the effectiveness of Levothroid (Levothyroxine sodium) can be assessed. In case of a missed dose, the dose should be taken immediately when one remembers. But if the time of the next dose is approaching then the missed dose can be skipped and the usual dosing schedule should be continued. Avoid doubling of doses to compensate for the missed dose. In case of overdosing with Levothroid (Levothyroxine sodium), immediate medical attention should be taken. Profuse sweating, nervousness, pain in the chest, irregular heart beat and seizures are some of the symptoms of overdose of Levothroid (Levothyroxine sodium).

Levothroid (Levothyroxine sodium) is to be administered orally. The dose may vary from person to person and it is based on age, presence of cardiovascular disease, production of tolerance, side effects of the medicine and blood levels of thyroid hormone. The medication is to be taken on empty stomach with water. Generally one dose is taken daily before breakfast.

The side effects experienced by Levothroid (Levothyroxine sodium) are pain in the chest, elevated heart rate or pulse rate, profuse sweating, headache, heat intolerance, loss of sleep, diarrhea, vomiting, nervousness, loss of weight, fever, irregular menses, etc.

There are certain drugs that interfere with the action of Levothroid (Levothyroxine sodium). They are as follows:- antidiabetic drugs, warfarin, epinephrine, beta blocking drugs, drugs used in heart failure, theophylline, cholesterol lowering agents, lithium, anti thyroid drugs, calcium supplements and iron supplements.

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However,if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Levothroid (Levothyroxine sodium) is indicated in the treatment of hypothyroidism and is used to suppress the release of thyroid hormones in the treatment of cancerous thyroid nodules and growth of goiters.

Levothroid (Levothyroxine sodium) is to be stored at room temperature 15-30°C. It should be stored in a light-resistant, tight container and should be stored far from light and moisture.

• Levothroid (Levothyroxine sodium) can be prescribed in pregnancy and in nursing mothers but should be taken under the supervision of a doctor.
• Inform your physician before taking Levothroid (Levothyroxine sodium), in case you suffer from overactive thyroid conditions, heart attack, congestive heart failure, diabetes, bone loss disease, adrenal gland complaints, etc.
• Care is to be taken while administrating Levothroid (Levothyroxine sodium) in children.
• Avoid using Levothroid (Levothyroxine sodium) either alone or in combination with diet pills.