Thyrox 88

THYROX 88 Tablet

THYROX 88 Tablet, manufactured by Macleods Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd, is a synthetic thyroid hormone replacement medication.

• Composition: Each tablet contains Levothyroxine sodium 88 mcg (micrograms). This active ingredient is chemically identical to the thyroxine (T4) hormone naturally produced by the human thyroid gland.

• Uses:

  • Primarily prescribed for the management of hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce sufficient thyroid hormones.
  • Also used in the management of certain types of thyroid cancer and goitre (abnormal enlargement of the thyroid gland).
  • Helps support normal growth and development and maintains vital body functions such as metabolism, heart rate, body temperature, and energy usage.

• Dosage and Administration:

  • Thyrox 88 Tablet should be swallowed whole with a glass of water.
  • It is crucial to take this medicine on an empty stomach, preferably 30-60 minutes before breakfast, and at the same time each day for consistent results.
  • Do not crush or chew the tablet.
  • Dosage is determined by your doctor based on individual thyroid hormone levels, age, weight, and medical condition. Initial adult doses may range from 50 to 100 mcg/day, with adjustments in 25-50 mcg increments. For children, initial doses are typically 10-15 mcg/kg/day, and for elderly patients, 25-50 mcg/day, with adjustments at 6- to 8-week intervals.
  • Do not stop taking or alter the dosage without consulting your doctor, as symptoms may recur. Full effects may take 6 to 8 weeks.

• Side Effects:

  • Common side effects: Headache, palpitations (fast or irregular heartbeat), anxiety, diarrhea, weight loss, tremors, increased appetite, restlessness, nervousness, excitability, temporary hair loss, sweating, flushing, heat intolerance, insomnia, muscle cramps, and muscle weakness. These are often temporary and may resolve once the correct dose is established.
  • Serious side effects (rare or with high doses): Very high temperature, severe fast or irregular heart rate, low blood pressure, yellowness in eyes/skin, confusion, seizures (fits), chest pain (angina), and thyrotoxic crisis. In infants, craniostenosis (deformity of the skull) and in children, slowed or stopped growth, as well as irregular periods, have been reported.

• Precautions:

  • Avoid if allergic to levothyroxine or any other components of Thyrox 88 Tablet.
  • Contraindicated in patients with untreated hyperthyroidism, thyrotoxicosis, untreated adrenal insufficiency, or recent acute myocardial infarction.
  • Use with caution in patients with cardiovascular disorders (e.g., coronary artery disease, hypertension), diabetes mellitus (may affect blood sugar levels), kidney or liver problems, or thyroid nodules.
  • Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult their doctor, as dosage adjustments may be necessary during pregnancy.
  • Drug and Food Interactions: Leave a gap of at least 4 hours before or after taking antacids, calcium or iron supplements, and multivitamins, as they can interfere with absorption. Foods like soybean flour, cottonseed meal, cabbage, cauliflower, walnuts, dietary fiber, and calcium-fortified juices may also affect the medicine's effectiveness.
  • Not indicated for the treatment of obesity or for weight loss.
  • Regular monitoring of thyroid hormone levels through blood tests is essential.
  • Do not switch brands of levothyroxine without consulting your doctor, as formulations may vary.

• Storage:

  • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
  • Keep the medicine at or below 25°C.
  • Protect from light and moisture.
  • Always keep the medicine in its original packaging and out of the sight and reach of children and pets.

THYROX 88 by MACLEODS PHARMACEUTICALS PVT LTD contains Levothyroxine, a synthetic thyroid hormone. Here are the most frequently asked questions about this medicine:

What is THYROX 88 used for?

THYROX 88 (Levothyroxine 88 mcg) is primarily used to treat hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. It replaces the missing natural hormone to regulate the body's energy and metabolism. It can also be used to decrease the size of enlarged thyroid glands (goiter) and as an additional treatment for certain types of thyroid cancer.

How does THYROX 88 work?

THYROX 88 works by providing a synthetic version of the thyroid hormone thyroxine (T4), which is normally produced by the thyroid gland. This synthetic hormone replaces the insufficient T4 in the body, helping to restore normal metabolic function. It gets converted into an active metabolite (T3) in the liver and kidneys.

What is the usual dosage for THYROX 88?

The dosage of THYROX 88 is highly individualized and determined by your doctor based on factors such as your age, body weight, medical condition, and blood test results. For adults with hypothyroidism, a common starting dose is approximately 1.6 mcg per kilogram of body weight per day, though it may be lower for older adults or those with heart conditions. Your doctor will typically adjust the dose every 4 to 8 weeks based on your Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) levels until the desired therapeutic effect is achieved. It should be taken once daily, usually in the morning on an empty stomach, 30 minutes to 1 hour before breakfast, with a full glass of water.

What are the possible side effects of THYROX 88?

Most side effects associated with THYROX 88 are typically signs of taking a dose that is too high, mimicking symptoms of an overactive thyroid. These can include headache, nervousness, irritability, sleeplessness, tremors, rapid or irregular heartbeats (palpitations), chest pain, changes in appetite, weight gain or loss, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive sweating, heat intolerance, fever, and temporary hair loss, especially during the first few months of treatment. Serious side effects are rare but can include severe allergic reactions. High doses can also lead to serious heart problems.

Is THYROX 88 safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Yes, THYROX 88 (Levothyroxine) is considered safe and crucial to continue taking throughout pregnancy. Your dosage may need to be increased during pregnancy, and your thyroid levels will be monitored regularly by your doctor. It is also safe to take while breastfeeding, as only very small, clinically insignificant amounts of levothyroxine pass into breast milk, which are not expected to harm the infant. Maintaining adequate thyroid hormone levels is important for sufficient milk production.

Can THYROX 88 be taken with other medications?

Many medications, foods, and supplements can interact with levothyroxine, potentially affecting its absorption or effectiveness. It's important to inform your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, herbal, and vitamin supplements you are taking. Some common interactions include antacids, calcium salts, iron supplements, proton pump inhibitors, sucralfate, bile acid sequestrants, orlistat (for weight loss), phenytoin, carbamazepine, rifampicin, amiodarone, estrogens (including in birth control pills or HRT), and certain cholesterol-lowering medicines. To minimize interactions, it is generally recommended to take THYROX 88 at least 4 hours before or after these interacting substances. Levothyroxine can also affect the dosage requirements for diabetes medications and warfarin.

What precautions should be taken while taking THYROX 88?

THYROX 88 should not be used for weight loss or to treat obesity. Inform your doctor if you have any pre-existing health conditions such as heart problems (e.g., angina, heart disease, heart failure, high blood pressure, or a history of heart attack), diabetes, adrenal gland problems, or an overactive thyroid. Regular blood tests are essential to monitor your thyroid hormone levels and ensure the medication is working correctly and at the appropriate dose. Certain foods and beverages like grapefruit juice, coffee, calcium-rich foods (e.g., milk, cheese), and soy products can reduce the absorption of levothyroxine, so it's advisable to avoid them for at least an hour after taking your medication.

What happens if a dose of THYROX 88 is missed?

If you miss a dose of THYROX 88, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten one. Due to levothyroxine's long half-life, a single missed dose typically does not cause significant problems.

How should THYROX 88 be stored?

THYROX 88 tablets should be stored at room temperature, ideally between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C), with excursions permitted between 59°F and 86°F (15°C and 30°C). It is crucial to store the medication away from heat, direct light, and moisture. Keep the tablets in their original, tightly closed container and out of the reach of children. Avoid storing medication in humid environments like bathrooms, as heat and moisture can affect its potency.