LEVOTIRON 150 mcg Tablet

What is LEVOTIRON 150 mcg

p>LEVOTIRON 150 mcg is a synthetic thyroid hormone replacement therapy containing Levothyroxine Sodium (also known as Thyroxine Sodium). It is chemically identical to thyroxine (T4), a hormone naturally produced by the thyroid gland that is crucial for regulating metabolism, energy generation, and overall growth and development.

Key features:

• Generic Name: Thyroxine (Levothyroxine Sodium)
• Form: Tablet, film-coated
• Strength: 150 micrograms (mcg)
• Primary Use: Treatment of hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and as part of thyroid cancer management protocols.
• Benefits: Restores normal thyroid hormone levels, improves symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, depression, and maintains the body's normal metabolic rate.

How to use LEVOTIRON 150 mcg

Proper usage of LEVOTIRON 150 mcg is essential for achieving optimal therapeutic results and minimizing the risk of adverse effects.

Usage instructions:

• Take the tablet orally once daily, preferably on an empty stomach.
• Ideal timing is 30 to 60 minutes before breakfast, with a full glass of water to aid absorption.
• Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush, split, or chew.
• Consistency is crucial—take it at the same time every day.
• If using other medications (especially calcium, iron supplements, or antacids), allow a gap of 4 hours after taking LEVOTIRON.
• Do not abruptly stop the medication unless advised by a healthcare professional.

Mode of Action LEVOTIRON 150 mcg

LEVOTIRON 150 mcg acts by replacing or supplementing endogenous thyroxine (T4), thereby regulating various critical physiological processes in the body.

Mechanism details:

• Levothyroxine is converted peripherally to its active metabolite triiodothyronine (T3), which then binds to nuclear thyroid receptors.
• This binding stimulates DNA transcription and increases the production of proteins essential for metabolic activities.
• It plays a critical role in maintaining basal metabolic rate, regulating body temperature, heart rate, and protein synthesis.
• It ensures proper development and differentiation of cells, particularly in the brain and skeletal muscles.

LEVOTIRON 150 mcg Interactions LEVOTIRON 150 mcg

LEVOTIRON 150 mcg can interact with several drugs, affecting either its effectiveness or the safety profile of combined treatments. Recognizing these interactions is vital to managing therapy properly.

Common drug interactions:

• Calcium supplements, iron salts, and antacids: May decrease Levothyroxine absorption; separate by at least 4 hours.
• Warfarin and other anticoagulants: LEVOTIRON can enhance anticoagulant effects; monitor INR levels closely.
• Insulin and oral antidiabetics: May require dosage adjustments as thyroid hormones can alter glucose metabolism.
• Enzyme inducers (e.g., rifampin, phenytoin, carbamazepine): May increase metabolism of Levothyroxine, reducing its effectiveness.
• Amiodarone: Can alter thyroid function, potentially requiring dose adjustments of Levothyroxine.

Dosage of LEVOTIRON 150 mcg

The dosage of LEVOTIRON 150 mcg must be individualized, carefully adjusted based on clinical response and laboratory parameters (mainly TSH and free T4 levels).

General dosage guidelines:

• Initial dose for healthy adults: 50-100 mcg daily, adjusted gradually based on response.
• Maintenance dose: Commonly between 100-200 mcg daily; LEVOTIRON 150 mcg is typically used when a higher replacement dose is necessary.
• Elderly and cardiac patients: Should start with lower doses (e.g., 12.5-25 mcg) to minimize the risk of cardiac stress.
• TSH Monitoring: Every 6-8 weeks initially, then periodically after stabilization.
• Special conditions: Pregnant women usually require increased doses during pregnancy due to heightened metabolic demands.

Possible side effects of LEVOTIRON 150 mcg

While LEVOTIRON 150 mcg is generally well-tolerated when dosed appropriately, incorrect dosing, particularly overtreatment, can lead to symptoms resembling hyperthyroidism.

Common side effects (usually due to overdose):

• Palpitations or rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
• Heat intolerance and sweating
• Nervousness, anxiety, and tremors
• Unexplained weight loss
• Diarrhea or frequent bowel movements
• Difficulty sleeping (insomnia)

Serious side effects (seek immediate medical attention):

• Chest pain or signs of heart attack
• Shortness of breath
• Seizures
• Severe allergic reactions (rash, swelling, dizziness)

LEVOTIRON 150 mcg Contraindications LEVOTIRON 150 mcg

LEVOTIRON 150 mcg must not be used in certain medical conditions without proper evaluation and supervision to avoid serious health risks.

Contraindications include:

• Known hypersensitivity to Levothyroxine or any excipient in the tablet.
• Untreated thyrotoxicosis (overactive thyroid condition).
• Unmanaged adrenal insufficiency (e.g., Addison's disease).
• Recent myocardial infarction (heart attack) or severe cardiovascular disease (unless under careful monitoring).
• Difficulty in swallowing tablets safely (alternative liquid or crushable forms may be considered).

Storage of LEVOTIRON 150 mcg

Maintaining the correct storage conditions for LEVOTIRON 150 mcg is essential for preserving its potency and effectiveness.

Storage instructions:

• Store at controlled room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F).
• Protect from direct light, moisture, and excessive heat.
• Keep tablets in their original blister packaging until ready for use to protect from environmental exposure.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets.
• Do not use after the expiration date; safely dispose of any expired tablets according to local regulations.