General Information on Euthyrox
Euthyrox is used to treat hypothyroidism in adults (underactive thyroid). It is also used to treat specific types of goiters, thyroid disorders, including thyroid cancer. Euthyrox should not be used in infertility treatment unless a low thyroid hormone level is one of the reasons for it. The generic name of this drug is Levothyroxine.
Levothyroxine, the main active ingredient in the medication is actually a synthetic form of principle thyroid hormone, T4 (Thyroxine hormone). Thyroid hormone plays an important role in the development and growth of all tissues in the human body, including tissues in the brain and bones. It also helps in food metabolism and maintaining brain functions and body temperature.
Euthyrox works to restore normal levels of thyroid hormone which is important to maintain normal physical and mental activity. In children, adequate levels of thyroid hormone are essential for normal physical and mental development.
Euthyrox is available in the form of a tablet in strengths, Euthyrox 25 mcg, 50 mcg, 75 mcg, 100 mcg, 125 mcg, and 150 mcg. It is a prescription medicine, so consult your doctor before you buy Euthyrox, as using it for unintended purposes can cause serious health complications.
Side effects of Euthyrox
All medicines have certain side effects. Euthyrox may also cause mild to severe side effects in some people. Hair loss is one of the side effects associated with the drug. This side effect is temporary and experienced during first few months of therapy. It generally disappears on its own with time, as your body gets used to the drug. However, if the side effect persists or becomes bothersome, you should immediately consult your doctor.
Euthyrox may also cause severe side effects in some people. Increased sweating, mental/mood changes (such as mood swings, nervousness), diarrhea, shortness of breath, tiredness, headaches, and sensitivity to heat are some of the severe side effects associated with the drug.
In rare cases, patients may also experience rare but severe side effects such as swelling of the ankles, hands or feet, chest pain, seizures, irregular/fast/pounding heartbeat. Consult your doctor immediately if you experience or notice any severe side effects after taking a dosage of Euthyrox.
Some people may also experience an allergic reaction after using the drug. Trouble breathing, rashes, swelling of the tongue, throat or face, itching, and severe dizziness are common symptoms associated with allergic reaction.
Pregnant women may buy Euthyrox and use it after consulting their doctor. Women who get pregnant during treatment should tell their doctor about it, as the doctor may adjust the dosage to ensure that the drug is absolutely safe for the developing fetus.
Dosage of Euthyrox
Your doctor will give specific instructions regarding the dosage. Doctors generally recommend a single daily dose on an empty stomach. Take the medication 30 minutes prior to breakfast. The dosage depends on the medical condition that is being treated. The recommended dosages to treat different medical conditions are:
- Benign euthyroid goiter and prophylaxis of relapse after surgery in adults – Initial dosage of Euthyrox 25-50mcg once daily and maintenance dose of Euthyrox 100-200mcg once daily
- Thyroid cancer – Euthyrox 150-300mcg once daily
Interactions
Euthyrox may interact with other medicines that you are using. It may interact with medicines such as Warfarin, medicines/products containing estrogen, diabetes medicines (such as Sulfonylureas, insulin) and Theophylline.
Before starting the treatment, tell doctor about every medication that you are using, including all prescription drugs, over the counter medicines, and herbal supplements.
