Drug Class of Levothyroxine
Thyroid Hormone
Levothyroxine Sodium (T4)
1. Synthroid
2. Levoxyl
3. Levothroid
FDA Indication
Hypothyroidism
Mechanism of Action Levothyroxine
The exact MOA of Levothyroxine is unknown, however, when administered, T4 diffuses into the cell nucleus and binds to thyroid receptor proteins attached to DNA resulting in:
1. a regulation of growth and development
2. an increases in metabolic rate
3. inhibition of the secretion of thyrotropin by the pituitary
4. various effects on lipid and carbohydrate metabolism
Adverse Effects of Levothyroxine
Extremely rare other than those adverse effects occurring due to overdosing.
Overdosing from Levothyroxine can result in a hypermetabolic state with the following symptoms:
1. Fever
2. HypOglycemia
3. HF
4. Fluid loss
5. Tachycardia
6. Anxiety
7. Insomnia
Contraindication of Levothyroxine
Uncorrected adrenal insufficiency
BBW of Levothyroxine
When used off-label for obesity or weight reduction Levothyroxine can cause extreme toxicity.
- NOT to be used to treat obesity and weight loss
Patient Counseling Tips for Levothyroxine
...
Levothothyroxine must be taken with _________
Water
NOTE: Water should be drank consistently for at least 60 minutes for better absoprtion.
Take Levothyroxine ____ minutes before breakfast
60 minutes
TRUE or FALSE
Different brands of Levothyroxine may NOT work the same.
TRUE
If taken at bedtime, it MUST be take at least _____ hours after last meal.
3 hours
How often should thyroid levels be tested when receiving thyroid suppplementation?
Annually
The full effect of Levothyroxine is usually delayed. How long does it usually take for the full effect of Levothyroxine to be observed?
1-2 months
TRUE or FALSE
Levothyroxine can be taken 60 minutes before breakfast OR at bedtime (at least 3 hours after last meal)
TRUE