Eltroxin 12.5

ELTROXIN 12.5 mcg Tablets

ELTROXIN 12.5 mcg, manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals Ltd., is a thyroid hormone replacement therapy.

Composition

Each tablet contains 12.5 micrograms of Levothyroxine sodium as the active ingredient. Levothyroxine is a synthetic form of thyroxine (T4), a hormone naturally produced by the thyroid gland, crucial for regulating metabolism, growth, and development.

Uses

ELTROXIN 12.5 mcg is primarily prescribed for the treatment of hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid gland), a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce sufficient thyroid hormones. It helps to restore normal thyroid hormone levels, alleviating symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, constipation, muscle pain, hair loss, and increased sensitivity to cold. It is also used in the management of thyroid hormone deficiency and can serve as supportive therapy for TSH-responsive thyroid tumors and for the prevention of goiter.

Dosage and Administration

ELTROXIN 12.5 mcg tablets should be taken orally, usually once daily on an empty stomach, preferably at least 30 minutes before breakfast. The specific dose and duration of treatment are determined by a healthcare provider, who will monitor thyroid hormone levels. Lower starting doses, such as 12.5 mcg or 25 mcg per day, are often recommended, especially in elderly patients or those with existing heart conditions, with gradual increases based on response. Tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water. Do not change the dose without consulting a doctor.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include headache, nervousness, sweating, restlessness, difficulty sleeping, muscle weakness or cramps, diarrhea, and weight loss. More serious, though less common, side effects can include chest pain, rapid or irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath, severe allergic reactions (e.g., skin rash, swelling of face/throat), and fever. If any serious side effects occur, seek immediate medical attention.

Precautions

Do not interchange ELTROXIN with other levothyroxine brands without medical advice and monitoring, as dose adjustments may be needed. Exercise caution in patients with heart problems (e.g., angina, coronary artery disease, high blood pressure), diabetes, or adrenal gland problems. Levothyroxine should not be used for weight loss in euthyroid individuals, as higher doses can cause serious toxicity. Long-term use in post-menopausal women, particularly at higher than replacement doses, may be associated with decreased bone mineral density. Inform your doctor about all other medications, as interactions can occur with anticoagulants, antidepressants, antidiabetics, iron and calcium supplements, and certain weight-reduction agents like orlistat.

Storage

Store ELTROXIN 12.5 mcg tablets below 25°C. Keep them in the original tightly closed container, protected from light and moisture. Do not store in a bathroom, near a sink, in a car, or on windowsills, as heat and dampness can degrade the medicine. Keep out of reach of children.

What is ELTROXIN 12.5 used for?

ELTROXIN 12.5 is a synthetic thyroid hormone used to treat an underactive thyroid gland, a condition known as hypothyroidism. It is also used to manage goitre (an enlarged thyroid gland) and, in specific cases, as supportive therapy for certain thyroid cancers. The medicine works by replacing the natural thyroid hormone that your body isn't producing enough of.

How does ELTROXIN 12.5 work?

ELTROXIN 12.5 contains levothyroxine sodium, which is identical to the natural thyroid hormone (thyroxine, or T4) produced by your thyroid gland. Once absorbed, it is converted into the active form, triiodothyronine (T3), which then helps regulate various bodily functions, including metabolism, energy levels, growth, and development.

What is the usual dosage for ELTROXIN 12.5?

The dosage of ELTROXIN 12.5 is highly individualized and determined by your doctor based on your age, weight, symptoms, and blood test results (specifically TSH levels). For adults, a typical starting dose is 50 to 100 micrograms daily, which is gradually increased in increments of 25 to 50 micrograms every 2 to 4 weeks until the desired thyroid hormone levels are achieved. Lower starting doses (e.g., 12.5 to 25 micrograms/day) with slower increases are often recommended for elderly patients or those with pre-existing heart conditions. ELTROXIN 12.5 should be taken once daily on an empty stomach, preferably 30 to 60 minutes before breakfast or other medications, swallowed whole with a glass of water.

What are the possible side effects of ELTROXIN 12.5?

Side effects typically occur if the dose is too high and mimic symptoms of an overactive thyroid. Common side effects can include headache, nervousness, sleeplessness (insomnia), irritability, muscle weakness and cramps, tremors, increased appetite, weight loss, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, heat intolerance, excessive sweating, flushing, and menstrual irregularities. Serious but rare side effects include chest pain, rapid or irregular heartbeat, and severe allergic reactions. If you experience persistent or worrying side effects, consult your doctor.

Is ELTROXIN 12.5 safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Yes, ELTROXIN 12.5 is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It is crucial to continue taking it throughout pregnancy as uncontrolled thyroid hormone levels can negatively impact both the mother and the baby. Your doctor will monitor your thyroid hormone levels frequently during pregnancy and may adjust your dosage. During breastfeeding, only tiny amounts of levothyroxine pass into breast milk, which are usually not enough to affect the infant.

Can ELTROXIN 12.5 be taken with other medications?

ELTROXIN 12.5 can interact with several medications and certain foods. Some substances can reduce its absorption, including calcium supplements, iron supplements, antacids, proton pump inhibitors (like omeprazole or pantoprazole), orlistat (a weight loss drug), and some cholesterol-lowering medicines. It is generally recommended to take ELTROXIN 12.5 at least 4 hours apart from these medications. ELTROXIN 12.5 can also potentiate the effects of blood thinners (e.g., warfarin) and may affect blood glucose control in diabetic patients, potentially requiring adjustments to their antidiabetic medication dosages. Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about all other medications and supplements you are taking.

What precautions should be taken with ELTROXIN 12.5?

Before starting ELTROXIN 12.5, inform your doctor if you have any heart conditions (such as coronary heart disease, angina, high blood pressure, heart failure, or a history of heart attack), untreated hyperthyroidism, adrenal insufficiency, or diabetes mellitus. Close monitoring of thyroid hormone levels is essential throughout treatment. ELTROXIN 12.5 should not be used for weight reduction in individuals with normal thyroid function, as higher doses can lead to serious side effects. Regular blood tests are necessary to ensure the medication is working effectively and to adjust the dose as needed.

What happens if a dose is missed?

If you miss a dose of ELTROXIN 12.5, 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 compensate for the missed one. If you frequently miss doses or miss more than two doses, consult your doctor for guidance.

How should ELTROXIN 12.5 be stored?

ELTROXIN 12.5 tablets should be stored in a cool, dry place, ideally below 25°C. Keep the tablets in their original packaging, tightly closed, to protect them from light and moisture. Always ensure the medicine is kept out of the sight and reach of children.