Side Effects of Thyro-Tabs
Thyro-Tabs, medically referred to as levothyroxine, are used to treat and manage hypothyroidism in dogs. Unfortunately, for most dogs, the treatment of hypothyroidism will likely last for the rest of their lives. For owners, this means regular administration of medications accompanied with routine blood tests to monitor the dog's overall health and to increase or reduce medication doses.
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Understanding Hypothyroidism
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Hypothyroidism is when your dog's thyroid gland is producing an excessive amount of hormones. These hormones control the body's metabolism; an imbalance can result in weight gain, incontinence, muscle pain, stiffness, appearing to be depressed or increased aggressiveness, lethargy or hyperactivity, all of which depend on the individual dog.
Endurance
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One of the most common side effects of Thyro-Tabs is the inability to endure extreme heat or even slightly elevated temperatures, such as 70 to 80 degrees. In some cases, your dog may be unable to withstand temperatures he normally would have willingly frolicked in.
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Changes in Behavior
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Another common side effect of Thyro-Tabs include a change in behavior such as becoming more lethargic or hyperactive. For example, a Jack Russell Terrier, a breed normally known for being quite active, may become listless, lethargic or even unresponsive to activities that she may have previously enjoyed.
Changes in Bowel Movements
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An increased intake of Thyro-Tabs can also increase your dog's thirst. Therefore, water intake will increase, and you may notice an increased frequency of urination. His urination may also occur at any time and that may mean your dog may have involuntary accidents.
Thyrotoxicosis
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When combined, all of these symptoms may be a sign that your dog has also developed thyrotoxicosis. Thyrotoxicosis occurs when an overactive thyroid gland produces an excessive amount of hormones. Symptoms of thyrotoxicosis include symptoms similar to that of hypothyroidism and therefore will be noticeable if your veterinarian has prescribed medications to control those symptoms.
Thyrotoxicosis can also be an indication of other medical issues. One of the more common issues called Graves Disease is an autoimmune disorder in which a variety of antibodies and hormones cause the thyroid gland to become enlarged.
Another condition, Plummer Disease, or toxic multi-nodular goiter, is similar to hypothyroidism in its symptoms except the time frame is extended; symptoms will occur more slowly over an extended period of time.
Last, a more rare condition called adenoma can cause benign monoclonal tumors within the thyroid gland.
If at any time you notice these symptoms within your dog, whether it be during treatment or before diagnosis, contact your veterinarian. In rare cases, severe reactions can occur due to medications or due to hypothyroidism.
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