LEVOTHYROXIN

Levothyroxine replaces the thyroid hormone that the body is missing when the thyroid is underactive. It is taken once a day, usually long term.

What Levothyroxine Is Used For

• Underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism)
• After thyroid surgery or radioactive iodine treatment

Common Side Effects

• Usually none when the dose is right
• Signs of too high a dose: palpitations, tremor, weight loss

Precautions

Take levothyroxine on an empty stomach, usually first thing in the morning, and wait before eating or taking other medicines, as food, calcium and iron reduce its absorption. Do not stop or change the dose on your own. Your doctor will check your thyroid levels with blood tests.

This page is general information only. It is not a substitute for advice from your doctor or pharmacist, and it does not include dosage. Always follow the directions given to you and read the leaflet inside the pack.