Thyrox 50 mcg

Hypothyroidism of any cause, including congenital hypothyroidism. Suppression of TSH in goitre and after treatment of thyroid cancer, as directed by the physician.

Levothyroxine is synthetic thyroxine (T4), identical to the natural thyroid hormone. It is converted in the body to the active hormone T3, which regulates metabolism, growth and development.

Adult: start with 50-100 mcg once daily, adjusted in steps of 25-50 mcg every 3-4 weeks; usual maintenance 100-200 mcg once daily. Elderly or heart disease: start with 25 mcg once daily. Take on an empty stomach, 30-60 minutes before breakfast. Child: dose by body weight as directed by the physician.

Usually occur with excessive dose: palpitations, fast heart rate, tremor, anxiety, insomnia, sweating, weight loss, diarrhoea, headache and chest pain.

Use with caution in heart disease, hypertension, the elderly and diabetes. Monitor TSH regularly; the dose often needs to be increased in pregnancy. Take calcium, iron and antacids at least 4 hours apart.

Untreated thyrotoxicosis, untreated adrenal insufficiency, acute heart attack and hypersensitivity to levothyroxine.

Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place, away from light. Keep out of the reach of children.