Thyroxine sodium (levothyroxine) is a man-made version of the thyroid hormone. It replaces the hormone when the thyroid gland does not make enough.

What Thyroxine Sodium Is Used For

Underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism)
Thyroid hormone replacement after thyroid surgery or radioiodine treatment
Goitre and some thyroid cancers, as advised by a specialist

Common Side Effects

Side effects are uncommon at the right dose
Fast heartbeat, sweating or shakiness if the dose is too high
Headache
Difficulty sleeping

Precautions

Take thyroxine on an empty stomach at the same time each day, and keep calcium, iron and antacids a few hours apart from it. Your doctor will check blood tests to adjust treatment. Tell your doctor if you have heart disease, and do not stop treatment without advice.

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.