Information About Eltroxin
Eltroxin is a brand of levothyroxine sodium, a synthetic form of the thyroid hormone thyroxine (T4). It is used to treat hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid) by supplementing or replacing the hormone that the thyroid gland is not producing in sufficient amounts. This medication helps to restore normal metabolism and energy levels in the body.
Product Highlights:
- Eltroxin is primarily used to treat:
- The main use of Eltroxin is for the management of hypothyroidism, where the thyroid gland fails to produce enough thyroid hormones.
- For patients who have had their thyroid gland removed (e.g., due to cancer or thyroidectomy) or damaged.
- It may be used to reduce the size of an enlarged thyroid gland (goiter).
- Sometimes used to treat secondary hypothyroidism caused by pituitary gland issues.
Key Ingredient
Key Benefits
- Eltroxin effectively replaces the missing thyroid hormone, thereby normalizing metabolic processes and energy levels.
- It can alleviate symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, depression, dry skin, and hair loss associated with hypothyroidism.
- Eltroxin is taken orally in tablet form, which is convenient for long-term treatment.
- As a commonly prescribed medication, levothyroxine has a well-established safety profile when taken as directed.
- Proper use can prevent complications of untreated hypothyroidism, such as heart disease, infertility, and nerve damage.
Direction of Use
- Eltroxin should be taken orally, typically once a day.
- It is usually recommended to take it on an empty stomach, typically 30 to 60 minutes before breakfast, to maximize absorption.
- Take it at the same time every day to maintain consistent hormone levels.
- The dose varies depending on the severity of hypothyroidism, age, weight, and any other health conditions. A doctor will typically start with a low dose and gradually adjust it based on blood tests (specifically TSH levels).
- Different brands of levothyroxine may have different bioavailabilities. It's important to stay with one brand and formulation unless advised otherwise by a healthcare provider.
Safety Concerns
- Too much levothyroxine can cause symptoms of hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), such as increased heart rate, anxiety, insomnia, and weight loss.
- Levothyroxine can exacerbate heart conditions such as angina or arrhythmias, especially in elderly patients or those with a history of cardiovascular disease.
- Long-term use, especially in high doses, can increase the risk of osteoporosis (bone thinning), particularly in postmenopausal women.
- Several medications can interfere with Eltroxin’s absorption or effectiveness, including calcium supplements, iron, and certain antacids, as well as some anticonvulsants.
- Eltroxin is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but dosages may need to be adjusted during pregnancy due to hormonal changes.
Avoid Eltroxin If
- Eltroxin should not be taken if you have an overactive thyroid, as it would worsen the condition.
- If you have a known allergy to levothyroxine or any excipients in the formulation, you should avoid taking it.
- If you have untreated adrenal insufficiency (such as Addison's disease), levothyroxine should be avoided until the adrenal condition is treated.
- Individuals with untreated or severe heart problems, including coronary artery disease, angina, or arrhythmias, should use Eltroxin with caution, as it can increase the risk of exacerbating these conditions.
- Eltroxin should not be used in cases of acute thyroid crisis, which is a life-threatening medical emergency related to severe hyperthyroidism.
