How to Take Levothyroxine Synthroid

Levothyroxine Synthroid is a prescription drug used to treat people with a hypothyroidism. If you have a low thyroid, this replacement hormone can help your thyroid function better, alleviating symptoms of hypothyroidism. Levothyroxine is safe to take while pregnant and nursing, but may contribute to osteoporosis over long periods of time. I am personally familiar with this medication, however, always discuss your health questions and treatments with your doctor.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. 

   If you suspect you have hypothyroidism, first and foremost, you need to visit your doctor and have a blood test performed to confirm your diagnosis. Your doctor may then prescribe Levothyroxine Synthroid as treatment. However, make sure you inform your doctor of other health conditions, especially anything relating to your heart, adrenal glands, anemia or diabetes and make certain your doctor is aware of any other medications and supplements you are on. If you have certain conditions, you may not be able to take Levothyroxine Synthroid.

2. 

   When you get your prescription of Levothyroxine Synthroid, make sure you start taking it in the morning on and empty stomach with a full glass of water. Try to take it at the same time everyday.

3. 

   If you can, avoid eating anything for at least half an hour after wards. Make sure you do not take your levothyroxine with milk or antacids as it can prevent absorption of the medicine.

4. 

   Take all other supplements and vitamins at least 4 hours after taking your levothyroxine. Supplements, including iron, can also affect your body's ability to properly absorb the medication.

5. 

   Take your levothyroxine with vitamin C. Okay, so I said to take all supplements and vitamins later in that day, however, recent studies have shown that vitamin C can help improve the absorption of levothyroxine.

6. 

   If you are forgetful about taking daily meds, ask your doctor about taking one weekly dosage. A recent study found that it had no adverse affects on the heart or thyroid and might be an option for those who are forgetful. ASK YOUR DOCTOR FIRST!

7. Continue taking your medication as long as it has been prescribed to you. Even if you begin feeling well and energetic, a stop in taking your medication can result in a quick decline into your hypothyroid symptoms. If you are diagnosed as hypothyroid, you will most likely need to take medication for the rest of your life to supplement the hormone your thyroid doesn't create.

Tips & Warnings

• Only take your levothyroxine as prescribed by your personal physician.
• This article is in no way a substitute for medical consultation with your doctor. It is vital you work closely with a doctor and get your thyroid levels checked periodically to make sure you are not taking too much or too little medicine as the amount of Levothyroxine you need can change periodically.

Resources

• Should You Take Your Thyroid Medication Weekly?
• Should You Take Your Thyroid Medication With Vitamin C?
• How to Identify Symptoms of Hypothyroidism
• How to Treat Hypothyroidism Naturally
• How to Lose Weight When You Have Hypothyroidism

[GreenMomma]

on 5/1/2009 I didn't know that about vitamin C! Thanks for the information!!!