thyroid replacement-oral

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GENERIC NAME: THYROID REPLACEMENT - ORAL

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, possibly 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 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.

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, rapid or irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath, trembling, sweating, diarrhea, weight loss. If you experience any of these effects, contact your doctor. Your dose may need to be adjusted. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Need help identifying pills and medications? Use the pill identifier tool on RxList.