Thyroid medication such as Levothroid is prescribed to restore the thyroid gland to its normal function. An underactive thyroid, known as hypothyroidism, robs the body of hormones necessary for metabolism that affects areas throughout the body.
Levothroid, a brand name for levothyroxine sodium, helps to produce more thyroid hormone due to low levels caused by an underactive thyroid. Having proper amounts of the hormone maintains the normal mental and physical activity people need,
WebMD explains.
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Symptoms of an underactive thyroid include fatigue, muscle aches, sensitivity to cold, slow heartbeat, weight gain, constipation, and dry skin.
Levothroid thyroid medication also treats other conditions associated with hypothyroidism, including goiter, an enlarged thyroid gland at the front of the neck, and thyroid cancer.
Levothroid may not be used by people with certain medical conditions, so it is important to discuss your medical history with a doctor. Some of these conditions may include heart disease, diabetes, anemia, osteoporosis, or other disorders,
according to Drugs.com.
Although weight gain may occur with hypothyroidism, thyroid medication should not be used to treat weight problems.
Levothroid is safe to take during pregnancy, but a doctor might have to adjust the dosage during pregnancy or while breastfeeding,
Everyday Health reports.
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As with many thyroid or other medications, Levothroid may cause side effects. Common reactions from the drug include:
• Headache
• Nervousness or irritability
• Insomnia
• Excessive sweating
• Weight loss
• Nausea or vomiting
• Stomach cramps
• Diarrhea
• Increased appetite
• Changes in menstrual cycle
• Fever
• Sensitivity to heat
• Temporary hair loss
A doctor can adjust the dosage or switch patients to another medication if the effects become bothersome.
More serious side effects include rapid or irregular heartbeat and chest pain, according to Everyday Health. Patients are advised to stop taking the thyroid medication and seek immediate medical attention if these symptoms occur.
Levothroid may also interact with heart and diabetes medications, estrogens and oral contraceptives, antidepressants, blood thinners, amphetamines, aspirin, or other medications. Patients can consult with their doctor about taking this thyroid medication with other prescribed or over-the-counter drugs.
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