Thyrox 150

THYROX 150 by MACLEODS PHARMACEUTICALS PVT LTD

Name:

• Brand Name: THYROX 150
• Common Name: Thyroxine (Levothyroxine, Thyroxine sodium)

Composition:

• Active Ingredient: Thyroxine 150 mcg (micrograms) or Thyroxine sodium 150 mcg

Uses: THYROX 150 is a synthetic thyroid hormone primarily used for:

• Hypothyroidism: Treating an underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism) by replacing thyroid hormones when the body's natural production is insufficient. This helps restore normal thyroid function and alleviate symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, dry skin, cold sensitivity, and depression.
• Goiter Management: Helping to manage goiter (enlarged thyroid gland).
• Thyroid Cancer: As a complementary treatment with surgery and radioiodine therapy for preventing and treating certain types of thyroid cancer after thyroid gland removal.

Dosage and Administration:

• Take orally, preferably on an empty stomach, 30 to 60 minutes before breakfast.
• Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; do not crush or chew.
• Take at the same time every day for consistent results.
• The dosage is individualized by a healthcare professional based on age, body weight, medical condition, and regular thyroid function test results.
• This is typically a lifelong medication.

Side Effects: Common side effects may include:

• Headache, nervousness, irritability, sleeplessness (insomnia).
• Diarrhoea, muscle spasm/cramps, weight loss, increased appetite.
• Feeling hot, excessive sweating, heat intolerance.
• Menstrual irregularities and skin rash.

Serious side effects, though less common, can include chest pain, rapid or irregular heartbeat (tachycardia), and shortness of breath.

Precautions:

• Do not stop or adjust the dosage without consulting your doctor.
• Regular monitoring of thyroid hormone levels is essential.
• Inform your doctor about any pre-existing conditions such as heart disease (including high blood pressure or a history of heart attack), diabetes, kidney or liver issues, adrenal gland complications, or osteoporosis, as dosage adjustments or close monitoring may be required.
• Foods like soybean flour, cottonseed meal, cabbage, cauliflower, walnuts, dietary fiber, calcium, and calcium-fortified juices may affect absorption; avoid their intake within several hours of dosing.
• Leave at least 4 hours between taking THYROX 150 and antacids, calcium or iron supplements, and multivitamins.
• THYROX 150 should not be used for weight loss alone.

Storage:

• Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight.
• Keep out of sight and reach of children.
• Thyroxine is unstable in the presence of light, heat, and humidity; store in its original container.

Here are some frequently asked questions about THYROX 150 by MACLEODS PHARMACEUTICALS PVT LTD:

What is THYROX 150 used for?

THYROX 150 Tablet is primarily used to treat hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. It helps restore normal thyroid hormone levels, alleviating symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, and dry skin. It can also be used to manage goiter (enlarged thyroid gland) and as part of the treatment for thyroid cancer after the thyroid gland has been surgically removed.

How does THYROX 150 work?

THYROX 150 contains Thyroxine sodium, which is a synthetic form of the hormone thyroxine (T4) that is naturally produced by the thyroid gland. It works by replacing the missing thyroid hormone in the body, thereby restoring normal thyroid function and regulating the body's metabolism, energy levels, and overall health.

What is the usual dosage for THYROX 150?

The dosage of THYROX 150 is highly individualized and determined by your doctor based on your age, body weight, medical condition, and thyroid hormone levels. It is typically taken once daily on an empty stomach, usually 30-60 minutes before breakfast. It should be swallowed whole with a glass of water. For new-borns and infants with congenital thyroid hormone deficiency, the initial recommended dosage is 10-15 mcg per kg/day for the first 3 months.

What are the possible side effects of THYROX 150?

Side effects are often associated with taking a higher dose than needed. Common side effects may include headache, nervousness, sleeplessness (insomnia), irritability, diarrhea, muscle spasms or cramps, weight loss, feeling hot even in cool environments, excessive sweating, and menstrual irregularities. More serious, but less common, side effects can include chest pain, rapid or irregular heartbeat, and shortness of breath. Consult your doctor if side effects persist or worsen.

Is THYROX 150 safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Yes, THYROX 150 is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding when prescribed by a doctor. It is crucial to continue taking this medication throughout pregnancy, as your doctor may need to adjust the dose to ensure proper thyroid hormone levels for both you and the baby. Levothyroxine passes into breast milk in very small amounts that are unlikely to harm a nursing infant.

Can THYROX 150 be taken with other medications?

THYROX 150 can interact with various medications and some foods, potentially affecting its absorption or effectiveness. It is generally recommended to take THYROX 150 on an empty stomach and to separate its intake by at least 4 hours from antacids, calcium supplements, iron supplements, and multivitamins. Foods such as soybean flour, cottonseed meal, cabbage, cauliflower, walnuts, dietary fiber, and calcium-fortified juices may also affect its working. If you have diabetes, THYROX 150 may alter blood glucose control, so your doctor may need to adjust your antidiabetic medications.

What precautions should be taken while taking THYROX 150?

Always take THYROX 150 exactly as prescribed by your doctor and do not stop or adjust the dosage without consulting them. Regular monitoring of thyroid hormone levels through blood tests is essential. Inform your doctor about any pre-existing conditions like heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, clotting disorders, or adrenal/pituitary gland problems, as dose adjustments may be necessary. Long-term use of THYROX 150 may affect bone health, and your doctor might suggest calcium or vitamin D supplements. This medicine should not be used for weight loss alone.

What happens if a dose of THYROX 150 is missed?

If you miss a dose of THYROX 150, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one. Missing one dose typically does not cause significant problems, but consistently missing doses can lead to the recurrence or worsening of hypothyroidism symptoms.

How should THYROX 150 be stored?

THYROX 150 should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. The recommended storage temperature is typically between 10ºC to 25ºC or below 30ºC. Keep the tablets in their original packaging and out of sight and reach of children.