LEVOTIRON 25 mcg Tablet

What is LEVOTIRON 25 mcg

LEVOTIRON 25 mcg is a synthetic form of the thyroid hormone **levothyroxine sodium**, used to treat conditions associated with thyroid hormone deficiency, such as **hypothyroidism**. Each tablet contains **25 micrograms of levothyroxine sodium**, which is a synthetic form of thyroxine (T4), a hormone naturally produced by the thyroid gland.

• Generic Name: Levothyroxine Sodium
• Form: Oral Tablet
• Packaging: 100 tablets (20 tablets per blister, 5 blisters per pack)
• Therapeutic Class: Thyroid hormone replacement
• Indications: Primary, secondary, and tertiary hypothyroidism, goiter, thyroid cancer (as part of suppression therapy), and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) suppression

How to use LEVOTIRON 25 mcg

Proper usage of LEVOTIRON is essential for achieving optimal therapeutic results. It is typically prescribed for long-term daily use, and adherence to your healthcare provider’s instructions is crucial.

• Administration: Take the tablet orally with a full glass of water.
• Timing: Take it on an empty stomach, preferably 30 to 60 minutes before breakfast.
• Consistency: Take it at the same time every day to maintain stable hormone levels.
• Avoid: Do not take it with calcium, iron, soy products, or antacids, as they can impair absorption. Separate such substances by at least 4 hours.
• Missed Dose: Take it as soon as you remember. If it's close to the time of your next dose, skip the missed dose—do not double up.

Always follow your doctor's prescription and do not stop taking LEVOTIRON without consulting your healthcare provider, even if you feel well.

Mode of Action LEVOTIRON 25 mcg

LEVOTIRON (Levothyroxine Sodium) works by supplementing or replacing the thyroid hormone thyroxine (T4), which is naturally produced by the thyroid gland. When absorbed, it is converted in the liver and kidneys to its active form, **triiodothyronine (T3)**.

• Restores Thyroid Levels: It restores normal levels of T4 and T3, essential for maintaining metabolic balance.
• Metabolic Regulation: Regulates the body's metabolism, including heart rate, temperature, and energy production.
• Growth & Development: Critical for normal growth, brain development, and tissue repair, especially in infants and children.
• Negative Feedback Loop: Suppresses elevated TSH levels in patients with goiter or thyroid cancer.

Levothyroxine has a **delayed onset** of action—clinical effects may take several days to weeks, and therapeutic effects are monitored through periodic TSH and T4 level checks.

LEVOTIRON 25 mcg Interactions LEVOTIRON 25 mcg

LEVOTIRON can interact with a wide range of medications and substances, which may affect its absorption or efficacy. It is important to inform your healthcare provider of all medications you are taking.

• Decreased Absorption: Calcium supplements, iron salts, antacids, and cholestyramine may reduce levothyroxine absorption.
• Enhanced Metabolism: Rifampin, phenytoin, and carbamazepine can increase the metabolism of levothyroxine, potentially reducing its effect.
• Antidiabetic Agents: LEVOTIRON can reduce the efficacy of insulin and oral hypoglycemics.
• Anticoagulants: Enhances the effect of warfarin, increasing bleeding risk—monitor INR levels closely.
• Estrogens: Oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy may increase thyroid-binding globulin, requiring dose adjustment.

Avoid abrupt changes in medication without medical advice, and schedule thyroid function monitoring as recommended.

Dosage of LEVOTIRON 25 mcg

The dosage of LEVOTIRON is individualized based on several factors, including age, body weight, cardiac status, and the severity of hypothyroidism. Initial dosages are usually lower and titrated up based on TSH levels.

• Adults with Hypothyroidism: Initial dose is typically 25-50 mcg/day, gradually increased every 4-6 weeks.
• Elderly or Cardiac Patients: Start low, e.g., 12.5-25 mcg/day, with cautious titration to avoid cardiac complications.
• Children: Dose is based on weight and age—pediatric endocrinologist consultation recommended.
• Monitoring: TSH and Free T4 should be rechecked 6–8 weeks after starting or adjusting dose.

Do not alter your dose without consulting your healthcare provider, even if you experience side effects or symptom changes.

Possible side effects of LEVOTIRON 25 mcg

While LEVOTIRON is generally well tolerated when used at the correct dose, excessive doses can lead to symptoms of **hyperthyroidism**. Side effects often reflect an overdose or sensitivity.

• Common Side Effects:
  • Palpitations
  • Increased appetite
  • Weight loss
  • Insomnia
  • Nervousness or irritability
  • Heat intolerance
• Serious Side Effects:
  • Chest pain or arrhythmia
  • Shortness of breath
  • Seizures (rare)
  • Thyrotoxic crisis (very rare, life-threatening)

Seek medical attention if you experience severe or persistent side effects. Dose adjustments may be needed.

LEVOTIRON 25 mcg Contraindications LEVOTIRON 25 mcg

LEVOTIRON should not be used in patients with certain medical conditions unless clearly needed and monitored.

• Untreated adrenal insufficiency: Risk of adrenal crisis due to increased metabolism of corticosteroids.
• Thyrotoxicosis: Contraindicated unless treated with antithyroid medications.
• Hypersensitivity: Known allergy to levothyroxine or any excipients.
• Acute myocardial infarction: Use with caution; can worsen cardiac demand.

Always disclose your full medical history to your doctor before starting LEVOTIRON.

Storage of LEVOTIRON 25 mcg

Proper storage of LEVOTIRON ensures the medication retains its potency and effectiveness.

• Temperature: Store below 25°C (77°F). Avoid excessive heat and humidity.
• Light Exposure: Protect from direct light—keep in original blister packaging.
• Keep Dry: Avoid storing in bathrooms or areas with moisture.
• Keep Out of Reach: Store away from children and pets.
• Do Not Use After Expiry: Discard expired medication as it may not be effective.

Always check packaging for storage instructions and consult your pharmacist if unsure.