Thyrox 88 (100 Tab)

THYROX 88 (100 TAB) by MACLEODS PHARMACEUTICALS LTD.

Thyrox 88 is a thyroid hormone replacement medication manufactured by Macleods Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

• Name:

  • Brand Name: THYROX 88 (100 TAB)
  • Common Name: Levothyroxine sodium

• Composition:

  • Each tablet contains 88 mcg of Levothyroxine sodium (Thyroxine).

• Uses: Thyrox 88 is primarily prescribed for:

  • Hypothyroidism: To treat an underactive thyroid gland that does not produce sufficient thyroid hormones. It replaces the missing hormones to restore normal thyroid function.
  • Thyroid Cancer: As an adjunct to surgery and radioactive iodine therapy for managing certain types of thyroid cancer.
  • Goitre: To address abnormal enlargements of the thyroid gland.
  • It helps alleviate symptoms of low thyroid hormone levels such as fatigue, weight gain, depression, and sensitivity to cold.

• Dosage and Administration:

  • Take orally, usually once daily on an empty stomach, 30-60 minutes before breakfast, with a glass of water.
  • Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush or chew.
  • Maintain a consistent dosing time each day.
  • Dosage is individualized based on medical condition, age, weight, and laboratory test results. Do not alter the dose or discontinue without consulting a doctor.

• Side Effects: Common side effects, often linked to higher than necessary doses, include:

  • Headache, anxiety, nervousness, restlessness
  • Palpitations (fast or irregular heartbeat), chest pain
  • Diarrhea, increased appetite, weight loss
  • Tremors or shaking of hands and feet
  • Sleeplessness, excessive sweating, heat intolerance
  • Temporary hair loss (especially in children). Seek medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen, or in case of overdose symptoms like confusion or seizures.

• Precautions:

  • Inform your doctor about any allergies to levothyroxine or other components.
  • Not recommended for untreated adrenal insufficiency or thyrotoxicosis.
  • Use with caution in patients with cardiovascular disease or diabetes, as dose adjustments and careful monitoring may be required.
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding generally permit use, but dose adjustments may be necessary during pregnancy.
  • Avoid taking calcium or iron supplements, antacids, anti-ulcer medicines, or certain cholesterol-reducing medicines within 4-5 hours of Thyrox 88 as they can interfere with absorption.
  • Certain foods (e.g., high-fiber, soy products, walnuts, cabbage, cauliflower) can affect absorption; avoid consumption within several hours of dosing.
  • This medicine should not be used for weight loss or to treat obesity.

• Storage:

  • Store in a cool, dry place below 25°C.
  • Protect from light and moisture.
  • Keep the medicine in its original packaging.
  • Ensure it is kept out of reach of children and pets.

THYROX 88 (Levothyroxine 88 mcg) is a medication primarily used to treat an underactive thyroid gland, a condition known as hypothyroidism. It works by replacing the thyroid hormone that your body naturally produces.

What is THYROX 88 used for?

THYROX 88 is primarily used to treat hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. It helps to alleviate symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, and sensitivity to cold. It may also be used in the management of certain types of thyroid cancer and goiter.

How does THYROX 88 work?

THYROX 88 contains levothyroxine sodium, which is a synthetic form of the thyroid hormone thyroxine (T4). When taken, this synthetic T4 replaces the deficient hormone in the body. T4 is then converted into its more active form, triiodothyronine (T3), in various body tissues. T3 plays a crucial role in regulating the body's metabolism, energy levels, growth, and development, affecting nearly every cell and organ.

What is the usual dosage of 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 thyroid hormone levels (monitored by blood tests). It is typically taken once daily on an empty stomach, preferably 30 to 60 minutes before breakfast, with a full glass of water. It is important to take it at the same time each day for consistent results.

What are the possible side effects of THYROX 88?

Most side effects associated with THYROX 88 occur if the dose is too high. Common side effects can include headache, palpitations (irregular heartbeat), anxiety, diarrhea, weight loss, tremors or shaking, increased appetite, restlessness, nervousness, increased sweating, and heat intolerance. Temporary hair loss, especially in children during the initial stages of treatment, can also occur. Serious but rare side effects, such as a "thyroid crisis" (very high temperature, fast heart rate, low blood pressure, confusion, seizures), require immediate medical attention.

Is THYROX 88 safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Yes, THYROX 88 is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It is crucial to continue taking this medication throughout pregnancy, as maintaining adequate thyroid hormone levels is vital for both maternal and fetal health. Your doctor may need to adjust your dosage during pregnancy. During breastfeeding, levothyroxine passes into breast milk in very low amounts, which are usually not considered harmful to the nursing infant.

Can THYROX 88 be taken with other medications?

THYROX 88 can interact with many other medications, supplements, and even certain foods, affecting its absorption and effectiveness. It's crucial to inform your doctor about all other medicines, herbal products, and supplements you are taking. For instance, antacids, iron supplements, calcium supplements, and certain cholesterol-lowering drugs should be taken at least 4 to 5 hours apart from THYROX 88 to avoid interference with its absorption. Diabetic patients may also require adjustments to their antidiabetic medication.

What precautions should be taken while taking THYROX 88?

THYROX 88 should not be used for weight loss, as normal doses do not aid in weight reduction, and high doses can cause serious side effects. Inform your doctor if you have pre-existing heart conditions, diabetes, adrenal insufficiency, thyroid nodules, or osteoporosis. Regular blood tests are essential to monitor your thyroid hormone levels and ensure the correct dosage. Certain foods, such as soy products, cottonseed meal, cabbage, cauliflower, walnuts, and dietary fiber, may affect absorption, so avoid consuming them within several hours of taking your dose. Grapefruit juice may also interfere with absorption.

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. 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. Missing one or two doses typically does not cause significant effects, as the medication stays in the body for several days, but prolonged missed doses can lead to the return of hypothyroidism symptoms.

How should THYROX 88 be stored?

THYROX 88 should be stored in a cool, dry place, typically below 25°C. It should be protected from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture, and kept in its original packaging. Always ensure the medication is kept out of the sight and reach of children and pets.