Thyroxine
Information about Thyroxine
Thyroxine uses
Thyroxine is used in the treatment of hypothyroidism.
How thyroxine works
Thyroxine is a synthetic version of a hormone produced by the thyroid gland. It works by replacing the thyroid hormones that your thyroid gland cannot produce and relieves the symptoms of hypothyroidism (tiredness, weight gain, and depression).
Common side effects of thyroxine
Vomiting, Diarrhea, Palpitations, Nervousness, Weight loss, Flushing (sense of warmth in the face, ears, neck and trunk), Tremors, Irregular menstrual cycle, Sweating, Headache, Increased appetite, Increased sweating, Hair loss, Abdominal pain, Muscle weakness, Fever, Hyperactivity, Chest pain, Fatigue, Heat intolerance, Irritability, Decreased fertility, Reduction in bone density, Electrolyte imbalance, Dizziness, Muscle cramp, Hearing impairment, Weakness, Hypotension (low blood pressure), Renal failure, Urticaria
Available Medicine for Thyroxine
Expert advice for Thyroxine
- Thyroxine should be taken on an empty stomach (ideally, first thing in the morning). No food, milk, or tea should be taken 1 hour before and 2 hours after taking this medicine.
- It may take 6 to 8 weeks to get the full effect.
- For most people, Thyroxine can be a lifelong medication. Do not discontinue it without discussing your doctor.
- Inform your doctor if you have diarrhea, nervousness, irritability, sleep disturbances, shaking hands, or chest pain. Your doctor may adjust your dose.
- Leave a gap of at least 4 hours before taking any antacids, calcium or iron supplements, and multivitamins, as these may interfere with the effect of the medicine.
- Get your hormone levels checked regularly and inform your doctor if you notice a significant change in your body weight. The dose may need to be adjusted.
- Inform your doctor before changing the brand of Thyroxine as all brands may not have the same effect.
Frequently asked questions for Thyroxine
Thyroxine
Q. What should I do if I accidentally take more than the dose required?
An overdose of this medicine may cause nervousness, anxiety, rapid heartbeat, hand tremors, excessive sweating, weight loss, and sleep problems. You should immediately consult your doctor in case of an overdose.
Q. How long do I need to take Thyroxine?
You should take Thyroxine as long as your doctor has recommended. Usually, it is prescribed for the long term and you may have to take it lifelong. Do not stop taking the medicine, as your symptoms of low levels of thyroid hormone may reoccur.
Q. How should Thyroxine be taken?
Take Thyroxine exactly as advised by your doctor. Thyroxine should be taken orally preferably before breakfast or as a first meal of the day. It should be swallowed whole with plenty of water.