Euthyrox 150 Tab

EUTHYROX 150 TAB by MERCK LIMITED

EUTHYROX 150 TAB is a medication used to supplement or replace thyroid hormones in the body. It is manufactured by Merck Limited.

• Name: EUTHYROX 150 TAB (Common names: Euthyrox 150 Tablet, Euthyrox 150mcg Tablet, Euthyrox 0.150mg (150mcg) Tab).

• Composition: The active ingredient is Levothyroxine sodium (Thyroxine sodium) at a strength of 150 micrograms (mcg). This synthetic hormone is identical to the natural thyroxine (T4) produced by the thyroid gland.

• Uses: EUTHYROX 150 TAB is primarily prescribed for the treatment of hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid), a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce sufficient thyroid hormones. It helps in restoring normal thyroid function and alleviating associated symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, and dry skin. It is also used for:

  • Treatment of benign euthyroid goitre.
  • Prophylaxis of relapse after surgery for euthyroid goitre.
  • Suppression therapy in thyroid cancer.
  • Concomitant therapy during anti-thyroid drug treatment of hyperthyroidism.
  • Diagnostic use for thyroid suppression testing.

• Dosage and Administration: This medication is typically taken orally once daily on an empty stomach, usually 30 to 60 minutes before breakfast, with a full glass of water. The exact dosage is determined by a healthcare professional based on the patient's age, body weight, medical condition, and blood test results to ensure stable hormone levels. It is crucial to maintain consistency in timing and dosage.

• Side Effects: Common side effects may include headache, nervousness, sleeplessness (insomnia), irritability, diarrhea, muscle spasm, weight loss, feeling hot (heat intolerance), menstrual irregularities, and skin rash. More serious effects, often indicative of an excessively high dose, can include rapid or irregular heartbeats (arrhythmia, tachycardia), chest pain, shortness of breath, and significant changes in mental or mood state.

• Precautions: EUTHYROX 150 TAB should not be used for weight loss or obesity treatment. It is contraindicated in patients with untreated adrenal gland problems, untreated overactive thyroid (thyrotoxicosis), acute myocardial infarction, or uncontrolled high blood pressure. Patients with diabetes should monitor blood glucose closely as dose adjustments of antidiabetic medications may be necessary. Certain foods (e.g., soybean flour, dietary fiber, walnuts, cabbage, cauliflower) and supplements (e.g., calcium, iron, antacids) can interfere with absorption and should be avoided for several hours around dosing. Regular monitoring of thyroid function is essential during treatment.

• Storage: Store EUTHYROX 150 TAB in a cool and dry place, protected from direct sunlight, at room temperature (between 10ºC and 25ºC or below 30ºC). Keep the medication out of the sight and reach of children. If in blister packaging, do not remove tablets until ready to use.

What is EUTHYROX 150 TAB used for?

EUTHYROX 150 TAB (levothyroxine sodium) is a synthetic thyroid hormone primarily used to treat hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. It is also used to treat or prevent goiter (enlarged thyroid gland), suppress tumor growth in patients with thyroid cancer, and can be used as a supplementary treatment alongside anti-thyroid drugs for hyperthyroidism, as well as for diagnostic thyroid function testing.

How does EUTHYROX 150 TAB work?

EUTHYROX 150 TAB contains levothyroxine sodium, which is chemically identical to thyroxine (T4), a natural hormone produced by the thyroid gland. It works by replacing the missing thyroid hormone in the body. T4 is then converted to tri-iodothyronine (T3), the active form, in peripheral organs, which helps regulate the body's metabolism, energy production, oxygen consumption, and protein synthesis, thereby restoring normal thyroid function.

What is the usual dosage for EUTHYROX?

The dosage of EUTHYROX is highly individualized and determined by your doctor based on factors such as your age, weight, medical condition, laboratory test results, and response to treatment. It is typically taken once daily on an empty stomach, 30 to 60 minutes before breakfast, preferably with a little liquid. Doses are usually started low and gradually increased until the appropriate maintenance dose is found.

What are the possible side effects of EUTHYROX?

Most side effects of EUTHYROX occur due to an overdosage, leading to symptoms of hyperthyroidism. These can include irregular heartbeats, chest pain, shortness of breath, headache, nervousness, irritability, insomnia, tremors, muscle weakness, increased appetite, weight loss, diarrhea, heat intolerance, menstrual irregularities, and skin rash. Serious allergic reactions like hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or difficulty breathing require immediate medical attention.

Is EUTHYROX safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Yes, it is generally safe and crucial to continue taking EUTHYROX during pregnancy, as untreated hypothyroidism can harm both the mother and the baby. Your doctor may need to adjust your dose during pregnancy, and regular blood tests will be conducted to monitor hormone levels. EUTHYROX is also considered safe during breastfeeding, as only minimal amounts pass into breast milk, which are too small to affect the infant.

Can EUTHYROX be taken with other medications?

EUTHYROX can interact with many medications. To ensure proper absorption, it should be taken at least 4 hours apart from calcium carbonate (calcium supplements), ferrous sulfate (iron supplements), bile acid sequestrants (e.g., cholestyramine, colestipol), and ion exchange resins. It should also be taken at least 2 hours before antacids, sucralfate, and aluminum-containing medicines. Proton pump inhibitors can reduce its absorption. EUTHYROX can also affect the required dosage of antidiabetic drugs and oral anticoagulants, necessitating close monitoring and potential adjustments. Inform your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking.

What precautions should be taken while taking EUTHYROX?

Do not use EUTHYROX for weight reduction or to treat obesity. Before starting therapy, inform your doctor if you have any pre-existing heart conditions (such as angina pectoris, heart failure, rapid/irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, or arteriosclerosis), diabetes, adrenal insufficiency, or pituitary insufficiency, as these conditions may require special medical control and monitoring. Regular monitoring of thyroid hormone levels through blood tests is essential.

What happens if a dose of EUTHYROX is missed?

If you miss a dose of EUTHYROX, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled 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. If you remember within 2-3 hours of your usual morning dose, you can take it immediately on an empty stomach. If more than 3 hours have passed, it is generally advisable to skip that day's dose and resume your usual schedule the next morning.

How should EUTHYROX 150 TAB be stored?

EUTHYROX 150 TAB should be stored at or below 30°C (86°F), protected from light. Keep the tablets in their original packaging, such as the blister pack or outer carton, to shield them from light. Always store this medicine out of the reach of children.