How to Stop Taking Synthroid Before WBS
Synthroid is a medication used to treat hypothyroidism, which is a condition in which the thyroid gland no longer produces sufficient thyroid hormone. In some cases, Synthroid will be prescribed after the thyroid has been surgically removed due to concerns about thyroid cancer. After this operation, your doctors may wish to do a whole body scan (WBS) to make sure that all of the cancerous tissue has been removed. However, to be accurate, this WBS will require you to stop taking Synthroid.
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Instructions
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Gradually lower your dosage. It is not recommended to stop taking Synthroid all at once, so if you need to stop taking Synthroid before a WBS, taper your intake.
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Talk to your endocrinologist. Your endocrinologist will be help you plan out a dosing schedule, and can also do blood tests to make sure that your thyroid hormone levels do not get too low, but are low enough for a WBS.
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Eat a low-iodine diet in the days leading up to the WBS. Too much iodine in your body can also interfere with the whole WBS, requiring a repeat. If you are weaning yourself off of Synthroid for a WBS, it is critical to also avoid iodized salt, as this will counteract stopping Synthroid.
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Be aware of symptoms of hypothyroidism. As you stop taking Synthroid, your thyroid hormone levels will drop. Be aware of potential serious side effects, such as difficulty breathing, problems with memory or your reflexes, loss of hair and psychosis. Contact your doctor immediately if you have any of these symptoms.
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Receive your labeled iodine. Before you get a WBS, you will need to receive a small injection of a special form of iodine, which will be used to help visualize where iodine is accumulating. Be sure that you take this medication before your WBS when instructed.
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