What is Levothyroxine?

Synthroid, the brand name of levothyroxine, is a thyroid medication which replaces or provides thyroid hormone usually produced by your thyroid gland. Levothyroxine is prescribed when your body does not naturally produce enough of this hormone on its own (hypothyroidism). Low thyroid hormone levels may occur naturally or when the thyroid gland is injured or removed. Synthroid also be prescribed to treat other thyroid disorders such as goiters and thyroid cancer. You can buy Synthroid online with Canada Drugs in a wide range of strengths.

Always read the patient information and instructions carefully before using this medication.

• Synthroid is typically taken once daily. It should be taken on an empty stomach between 30 minutes and one hour before breakfast and should be taken with a full glass of water.
• Swallow Levothyroxine capsules whole. Do not chew, crush or split the capsules.
• This medication comes in many strengths and your Synthroid dosage is based on your medical condition, age, weight, response to treatment and lab results. Do not increase or change your levothyroxine dosage unless advised by a doctor.
• Synthroid is most effective when taken regularly and is usually taken for life.

Make sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• If you have any drug allergies.
• Which other prescription and non-prescription medications you currently take.
• Your medical history especially of thyroid hormones, decreased adrenal gland function, heart disease, high blood pressure or diabetes.
• If you are pregnant, planning pregnancy or breast feeding. Your dosage may need to be changed.

Also be aware that:

• Certain medications can decrease the amount of thyroid hormone which is absorbed by your body. Wait at least four hours between taking Synthroid and these medications which include cholestyramine, colestipol, colesevelam, antacids, sucralfate, simethicone, iron, sodium polystyrene sulfonate, calcium supplements, orlistat, sevelamer, and others.
• Children and older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug.

Common side effects of Synthroid may include but are not limited to:

• Muscle weakness or leg cramps.
• Headaches.
• Nervousness or trouble sleeping.
• Diarrhea.
• Skin rashes.

Contact your doctor if you experience any of the following levothyroxine side effects:

• Fast or irregular heartbeats or chest pain.
• Shortness of breath
• Fever, feeling unusually cold, hot flashes or sweating.
• Tremors.
• Weakness, tiredness or sleep problems such as insomnia.
• Memory problems, feeling irritable or depressed.
• Skin or hair dryness or hair loss.
• Changes in your menstrual periods.
• Vomiting, diarrhea, appetite changes or weight changes.

Q:  Is there a Synthroid generic alternative?

A: Currently there is no therapeutically equivalent generic Synthroid available but you can still save up to 90% on the price of your medication by buying with Canada Drugs.

Q: What should I avoid while taking Synthroid?

A: While taking levothyroxine, you should avoid grapefruit juice, infant soy formula, soybean flour, cotton seed meal, walnuts and high fiber foods.