Thyrox 200

THYROX 200 by MACLEODS PHARMACEUTICALS LTD

Name

• Brand Name: THYROX 200
• Common Name: Levothyroxine sodium (synthetic Thyroxine)

Composition

• Active Ingredient: Thyroxine Sodium 200 mcg (also referred to as Levothyroxine)

Uses

THYROX 200 is primarily used to treat an underactive thyroid gland, a condition known as hypothyroidism. It replaces or provides more thyroid hormone when the body's natural production is insufficient. This medication helps restore normal thyroid function, alleviating symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, and dry skin.

It is also used for:

• Management of goiter (enlarged thyroid gland)
• Support after thyroid gland surgery
• Management of certain types of thyroid cancer, often to suppress thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels
• Addressing thyroid-related fatigue and weight gain

Dosage and Administration

THYROX 200 should be taken orally as directed by a healthcare professional.

• It is generally advised to take the tablet on an empty stomach, typically 30-60 minutes before breakfast, or at least 1 hour before and 2 hours after food, milk, or tea, to maximize absorption.
• Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; do not chew, crush, or break it.
• Taking it at the same time every day helps maintain consistent hormone levels and can improve results.
• The dosage and timing will be determined by a doctor based on age, body weight, medical condition, and blood test results, with regular monitoring of thyroid function to check effectiveness.
• It may take several weeks for the full effect of the medication to be noticed.
• In some cases, children with inborn thyroid hormone deficiency may be prescribed THYROX 200, with initial dosages adjusted based on weight and monitored by a doctor.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Headache, nervousness, sleeplessness, irritability
• Diarrhea, muscle spasm, weight loss
• Feeling hot even in cool environments, heat intolerance, increased sweating
• Menstrual irregularities (in women)
• Skin rash
• Tremor, shaking of hands and legs
• Temporary hair loss
• Increased hunger

More serious side effects can occur, especially with high doses, and require immediate medical attention:

• Chest pain, rapid or irregular heartbeat, palpitations
• Very high temperature, low blood pressure
• Confusion or fits
• Symptoms resembling hyperthyroidism

Precautions

• Allergies: Do not use if allergic to levothyroxine sodium or any other ingredients.
• Interactions: Inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, and herbal preparations being taken, as many drugs can interact with THYROX 200.
  • Avoid taking antacids, calcium or iron supplements, multivitamins, cholestyramine, and sucralfate within several hours (at least 4 hours) of taking THYROX 200, as they can reduce its effectiveness.
  • Foods like soybean flour, cottonseed meal, cabbage, cauliflower, walnuts, and dietary fiber may also affect its absorption; avoid intake within several hours of dosing.
  • Adjustments may be needed for antidiabetic medications (due to altered blood glucose control) and blood thinners.
• Pre-existing Conditions:
  • Not recommended for patients with acute myocardial infarction or uncontrolled high blood pressure.
  • Caution is advised for individuals with coronary heart disease, hypertension, adrenal insufficiency, or pituitary insufficiency. Close clinical monitoring of heart function is recommended.
  • Use with caution in patients with liver or kidney disease.
  • Not recommended for postmenopausal women with osteoporosis or heart problems due to potential long-term effects on bone density, increasing fracture risk.
  • Use with extreme caution in patients with thyroid nodules, as it may lead to thyrotoxicosis.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult your doctor. It can generally be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but dosage may need adjustment and hormone levels should be monitored.
• Weight Loss: THYROX 200 should not be used for weight loss or treatment of obesity.
• Brand Switching: Do not change brands without consulting your doctor, as all brands may not have the same effect.

Storage

• Store in a cool and dry place, away from sunlight.
• Keep out of sight and reach of children.
• To be stored in cool places at 10ºC to 25ºC or below 30ºC.
• Keep the medicine in its original container with the lid tightly closed.
• Protect from light. Do not take if the tablet's color has changed.

THYROX 200, manufactured by MACLEODS PHARMACEUTICALS LTD, is a medication containing Thyroxine Sodium 200 mcg. It is a synthetic version of the thyroid hormone, levothyroxine, commonly used to treat an underactive thyroid gland.

Here are some frequently asked questions about THYROX 200:

What is THYROX 200 used for?

THYROX 200 is primarily used to treat hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. It replaces the deficient hormone, helping to regulate the body's energy and metabolism, and alleviating symptoms such as tiredness, weight gain, depression, and sensitivity to cold. It may also be used to manage goiter (enlarged thyroid gland) and certain types of thyroid cancer.

How does THYROX 200 work?

THYROX 200 contains levothyroxine, which is a synthetic form of thyroxine (T4), a hormone naturally produced by the thyroid gland. It works by replacing the missing thyroid hormone in the body, restoring normal hormone levels, and helping to regulate various bodily functions including metabolism, energy levels, body weight, muscle strength, body temperature, mood, digestion, heart muscles, brain development, and bone health.

What is the usual dosage and how should it be taken?

The dosage of THYROX 200 is determined by your doctor based on your age, body weight, medical condition, and blood test results. It should be taken once daily on an empty stomach, typically 30 to 60 minutes before your first meal of the day. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; do not chew, crush, or break it. Regular blood tests are necessary to monitor its effectiveness, and the dose may be adjusted over time.

What are the possible side effects?

Side effects are often observed when the dose is too high and may resemble symptoms of an overactive thyroid. Common side effects include headache, nervousness, sleeplessness, irritability, diarrhea, muscle cramps or spasms, weight loss, feeling hot even in cool environments, increased appetite, and menstrual irregularities. More serious but less common side effects can include chest pain, irregular or fast heartbeat, and allergic reactions. If you experience severe symptoms like very high temperature, low blood pressure, confusion, or fits, seek medical attention immediately.

Is THYROX 200 safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

THYROX 200 is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. However, thyroid hormone levels need to be closely monitored during pregnancy, and your doctor may need to adjust your dosage. It's crucial to inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Can THYROX 200 be taken with other medications or foods?

Many other drugs and certain foods can affect the absorption and effectiveness of THYROX 200. It's important to take THYROX 200 at least 4 hours apart from medications like antacids (containing aluminum or magnesium), calcium supplements, iron supplements, cholestyramine, and sucralfate. Foods like soybean flour, cottonseed meal, cabbage, cauliflower, walnuts, and dietary fiber can also interfere with absorption, so it's advisable to avoid them within several hours of taking the medicine. Oral birth control pills and certain other medications (e.g., some epilepsy medicines, amiodarone, oestrogens) may also require dose adjustments of THYROX 200. Always inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, and herbal preparations you are taking.

What precautions should be taken?

THYROX 200 should not be used for weight loss or to treat obesity in individuals with normal thyroid hormone levels, as this can lead to serious, potentially fatal side effects. Caution is advised for individuals with heart conditions such as coronary heart disease, high blood pressure, or a history of heart attack. If you have diabetes, THYROX 200 may affect blood sugar levels, requiring dose adjustments of your anti-diabetic medications. Long-term use may affect bone health, so your doctor might recommend calcium or vitamin D supplements.

What happens if a dose is missed?

If you miss a dose of THYROX 200, 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 a missed one. Missing one or two doses usually doesn't cause significant problems, but consistent missed doses can lead to returning hypothyroidism symptoms.

How should THYROX 200 be stored?

Store THYROX 200 in a cool and dry place below 25°C, away from direct sunlight, light, and moisture. Keep the bottle tightly closed and out of sight and reach of children. Do not take the tablets if their color has changed.