Thyroid (By Mouth)

Thyroid (THYE-royd)

Treats hypothyroidism (the body does not produce enough thyroid hormone).

Brand Name(s):

Armour Thyroid, Westhroid, Nature-Throid NT-1, Nature-Throid NT-2, Nature-Throid NT-1/2, Nature-Throid NT-3
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to any type of thyroid hormone.

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet, Capsule

• Your doctor will tell you how much to take and how often
• Take your medicine at the same time every day.
• Take the medicine on an empty stomach.

If a dose is missed:

• Take your medicine as soon as you remember that you missed a dose.
• Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose.
• You should not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• If you are taking cholestyramine (Questran®), take it either 4 hours before or 4 hours after you take levothyroxine.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Talk with your doctor before taking this medicine if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, or diabetes.
• Do not stop taking this medicine without first checking with your doctor.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Skin rash or hives with intense itching
• Shortness of breath or trouble breathing
• Chest pain
• Severe irritability or nervousness, tremors
• Fast or irregular heartbeat
• Severe diarrhea or intense sweating

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Anxiety
• Headache
• Trouble sleeping
• Appetite changes, weight loss
• Irregular menstrual periods

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.