GENERIC NAME: LIOTRIX - ORAL (LYE-oh-tricks)

BRAND NAME(S): Thyrolar

Warning | Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

WARNING: This medication must not be used to treat obesity because serious, even life-threatening, effects could occur. Excessive levels of thyroid hormone can cause irregular heartbeats, nervousness, weight loss, and insomnia.

USES: Thyroid replacement therapy is prescribed when not enough thyroid hormone is being secreted from the thyroid gland.

HOW TO USE: Take this medication on an empty stomach. It is usually taken as a single daily dose before breakfast. Do not stop taking this medication unless consulting with your doctor. Replacement therapy is usually taken for life. Lab tests may be done periodically to monitor the effectiveness of this medication.

SIDE EFFECTS: Symptoms of low thyroid levels include fatigue, muscle aches, constipation, dry skin, weight gain, slow heart rate, sensitivity to cold or dry, brittle hair that tends to fall out easily. These symptoms should disappear as your body adjusts to the medication. If they persist or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Symptoms of high thyroid levels include headache, chest pain, fast/irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath, trembling, sweating, diarrhea or weight loss. The dose of the medication may need to be reduced. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Before using this drug, tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: heart problems, diabetes, adrenal gland problems, allergies (including drug allergies). Avoid using thyroid drugs for weight control. Current information shows that this drug may be used during pregnancy. Small amounts of this drug are excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

From the Doctors at MedicineNet.com

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