What is Levothyroxine?
Levothyroxine is a synthetic version of the thyroid hormone thyroxine (T4). It is used to treat hypothyroidism, an endocrine disorder where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. Levothyroxine supplements the body's natural thyroxine, restoring normal bodily functions that are regulated by thyroid hormone levels.
Medical Uses of Levothyroxine
The main medical uses of levothyroxine pills include:
- Hypothyroidism treatment - Most common use to replace missing hormones
- Goiter prevention - Can stop thyroid enlargement
- Thyroid cancer - Suppresses TSH to discourage tumor recurrence
- Diagnostic testing aid - Helps assess thyroid function
How Levothyroxine Pills Work
Oral levothyroxine tablets are rapidly absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract. Peak levels occur in around 5-6 hours. The synthroid hormone then binds to plasma proteins to be transported throughout the body to regulate metabolism.
It ultimately converts to the active T3 thyroid hormone. This is what actually binds to cell receptors to influence protein production and energy use. Patients are monitored to ensure optimal dosing through ongoing blood tests and clinical evaluations.
Brand Names of Levothyroxine
There are several brand name versions of levothyroxine manufactured by different pharmaceutical companies:
- Synthroid - Most famously prescribed levothyroxine brand
- Levoxyl - Common alternative to Synthroid
- Tirosint - Levothyroxine gel caps for improved absorption
- Unithroid - Known for dosage consistency between refills
- Euthroid - Another well-established brand option
Generic Levothyroxine
Generic levothyroxine contains the same full strength T4 synthetic hormone as all brand versions. The FDA ensures bioequivalence. But inactive ingredients differ between brand and generics. This rarely causes issues, but some patients report better results on brand name tablets.
What Levothyroxine Pills Look Like (Appearance)
Levothyroxine pills come in various shapes, sizes and color patterns depending on preparation. But they normally conform to standard oral tablet dimensions easy to swallow with water.
Synthroid Tablet Appearance
The Synthroid brand features color-coded tablets in different shades and shapes based on dosage amount:
- 25 mcg - Round white tablet
- 50 mcg - Round white tablet embossed with "50"
- 75 mcg - Round white tablet embossed with "75"
- 88 mcg - Oval orange tablet embossed with "88"
- 100 mcg - Round yellow tablet embossed with "100"
- 112 mcg - Round yellow tablet embossed with "112"
- 125 mcg - Round yellow tablet embossed with "125"
- 137 mcg - Rectangle blue tablet embossed with "137"
- 150 mcg - Rectangle blue tablet embossed "150"
- 175 mcg - Rectangle lilac tablet embossed "175"
- 200 mcg - Round pink tablet embossed with "200"
- 300 mcg - Rectangle green tablet embossed with "300"
Levoxyl Tablet Appearance
Levoxyl levothyroxine tablets appear as standard round convex shape in white color. The tablets are engraved on one side in black ink with "T4" above the dosage amount. For example, "T4" over "50" for a 50 mcg tablet.
Tirosint Capsule Appearance
Unlike tablet forms, Tirosint doses levothyroxine in a liquid gel capsule format. The capsules feature a bright yellowish to pale orange hue and opaque to translucent clarity depending on dosage. An identifying icon on the capsule cap marks the microgram amount.
Proper Use of Levothyroxine Pills
Following doctor's orders for using levothyroxine is essential to gain symptom relief and avoid side effects. Recommended administration practices include:
- Taking first thing in morning before food and beverages
- Swallowing whole tablets without chewing or crushing
- Being consistent day-to-day with timing
- Not stopping medication abruptly without medical supervision
Levothyroxine works best on an empty stomach with water only. Wait at least 30-60 minutes after your dose before eating or drinking anything besides water. Inconsistent dosing times or food interactions can impair absorption.
Starting Levothyroxine Treatment
Doctors typically start levothyroxine at lower doses like 25-50 mcg. The dose then gradually increases based on symptoms and blood work until thyroid hormone levels normalize. It often takes several months to optimize an individual's dosage.
Long-Term Use Considerations
Once the ideal maintenance dose is determined through testing, patients remain on that consistent daily levothyroxine regimen long-term in most cases. Thyroid function can fluctuate over time, so ongoing medical oversight ensures dosage adjustments as needed to prevent recurrence of hypothyroidism.
Side Effects of Levothyroxine
When properly prescribed and monitored, levothyroxine side effects are uncommon. But some patients experience reactions like:
- Heart palpitations or irregular beats
- Bone loss over the long run
- Heat sensitivity or sweating
- Muscle weakness, cramps or aches
- Mood changes like nervousness or irritability
Rarer side effects can include serious symptoms like chest pain, severe headache, vision changes or swelling. Alert your doctor promptly about any unusual or bothersome effects from this medication.
Interactions
Other prescription drugs, supplements, foods enriched with iron, calcium or magnesium, and even certain medical tests using contrast dye can potentially impair oral levothyroxine absorption. Discuss all medications and procedures with your healthcare provider.
Getting Support for Thyroid Problems
Living with hypothyroidism involves challenges from symptoms, medication use, frequent doctor visits and lab testing. Connecting with others facing the same diagnosis can provide helpful perspectives and advice.
Online Communities
Many thyroid patient support groups and forums for discussing hypothyroidism treatment exist on popular social platforms. These online communities let you exchange insights on optimizing levothyroxine therapy.
In-Person Support Groups
Local support groups also convene in some areas for those struggling with thyroid dysfunction. Check listings in your city or nearby locations for availability. In-person meetings offer a way to make connections beyond online-only interactions.
Whether online or in-person, support groups help provide extra resources and understanding from others in a similar situation with hypothyroidism. The shared experience can make coping with such a common but still disruptive disorder less stressful.
FAQs
What colors and shapes are Synthroid tablets?
Synthroid tablets come in various color-coded shapes and imprinted tablet markings to differentiate dosages. For example, 25 mcg are round white tablets, 50 mcg are also white but with "50" imprinted, etc. Refer to packaging guides to identify a specific Synthroid dose.
Should I take generic levothyroxine or brand name?
The FDA ensures generics contain the same full strengths of levothyroxine. But some patients report better symptom control on brand name versions. Check with your doctor whether to use Synthroid, Levoxyl or other brands versus generic preparations.
Can I cut or crush my levothyroxine tablet?
No, levothyroxine tablets should be swallowed whole without manipulating their intended time-release mechanism. Damaging tablets through cutting, crushing, chewing or even excessive handling can cause dose dumping or absorption issues.
How soon after taking levothyroxine can I eat breakfast?
It's best to wait at least 30 minutes, but ideally 60 minutes, before consuming food or drinks besides water after your levothyroxine dose. Taking levothyroxine first thing in morning on an empty stomach optimizes absorption to regulate metabolism properly throughout the day.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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