Thyroxine
Thyroxine Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Thyroxine is a brand name. Its generic name is Thyroxine (Na).
Thyroxine
Thyroxine sodium (also known as levothyroxine sodium) is a thyroid hormone medication used to treat hypothyroidism. It is a synthetic form of thyroxine (the primary hormone secreted by the thyroid gland) and increases the body’s sensitivity to circulating thyroid hormones and thus increases the utilization of these hormones, which normally stay bound to their receptors.
Uses
Thyroxine sodium is used for treating various conditions related to thyroid problems, such as underdosing and hypothyroidism. It is also used for treating certain autoimmune diseases and disorders of the pituitary and hypothalamus.
Mechanism of Action
Thyroxine sodium works by supplementing or replacing the missing thyroid hormone in the blood, thus restoring the normal balance of hormones in the body. It increases the sensitivity of target cells to thyroid hormones, stimulating them to utilize these hormones, and in turn helps them to maintain a normal balance. It also aids the body in accelerating metabolic activities like fat burning, heat production, and cell repair.
How Long Does it Take to Work?
The effects of thyroxine sodium can start within 24 to 48 hours after beginning the medication. It generally takes 6 to 8 weeks to see the full effects, but some patients may require more time before responding to the drug.
Absorption
Thyroxine sodium is mostly absorbed in the small intestine. A small amount is also absorbed by the stomach.
Route of Elimination
Thyroxine sodium is eliminated from the body mainly through the urine.
Dosage
The recommended dosage of thyroxine sodium depends on the individual’s condition and response to treatment. Generally, the initial dose for adults is 50 to 100 mcg/day, while in children, it is 10 to 15 mcg/kg/day. The dosage can be adjusted as needed, as long as the blood hormone levels remain in the normal range.
Administration
Thyroxine sodium should be taken orally on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before breakfast. It can be taken with or without food, but should not be taken with iron or calcium supplements as they can reduce its absorption.
Side Effects
Some of the common side effects of thyroxine sodium are: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive sweating, headache, tiredness, nervousness, rapid heart rate, and changes in appetite. Other possible side effects include hair loss, swelling of the lips and tongue, fever, irritation of the mouth and throat, muscle fatigue, muscle weakness, joint pain, and irregular menstrual cycles.
Toxicity
Thyroxine sodium overdose can lead to serious medical complications, including arrhythmia, coma, and death. Symptoms of an overdose may include chest pain, agitation, confusion, increased heart rate, dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, and tremors. It is important to seek immediate medical attention if an overdose is suspected.
Precaution
Thyroxine sodium should be taken exactly as directed by a physician. If any dosage instructions are unclear, it is important to contact the prescribing doctor for clarification. Thyroxine sodium should not be stopped suddenly, as this can lead to adverse side effects and medical complications.
Interaction
Thyroxine sodium may interact with several other medications. These include anticoagulants, aspirin, cholesterol medications, insulin, oral contraceptives, sedatives, and tricyclic antidepressants. It is important to consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting a new medication to ensure it does not interact with thyroxine sodium.
Disease Interaction
Thyroxine sodium may interact with diseases such as diabetes, adrenal insufficiency, and pituitary insufficiency. Therefore, it is advised to discuss your medical history with your doctor before taking this medication.
Drug Interaction
Thyroxine sodium can interact with several medications, including insulin, anticoagulants, sedatives, tricyclic antidepressants, and cholesterol medications. It is important to notify your doctor if you are taking any of these medications before starting thyroxine sodium.
Food Interactions
Thyroxine sodium may interact with certain foods, such as those high in calcium and iron. Therefore, it is important to avoid these types of foods at least 30 minutes before and after taking thyroxine sodium.
Pregnancy Use
Thyroxine sodium should not be used during pregnancy unless specifically advised by your doctor. It is important to discuss the risks associated with this medication during pregnancy with your doctor.
Lactation Use
Thyroxine sodium should not be used while breastfeeding, as it is not known whether it can pass into breastmilk or if it will harm a nursing infant.
Acute Overdose
An acute overdose of thyroxine sodium can be life-threatening and should be treated immediately, so if an overdose is suspected, seek immediate medical attention. The symptoms of thyroxine sodium overdose are chest pain, agitation, confusion, and increased heart rate.
Contraindication
Thyroxine sodium should not be used if you are allergic to any of its ingredients, as this can lead to a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). It is also not recommended for use in people with untreated subclinical or overt thyrotoxicosis, as this can worsen the condition.
Use Direction
Thyroxine sodium should be taken orally on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before breakfast. The dosage should be taken as directed by the doctor, and it is important to not change the dosage as this can cause adverse effects.
Storage Condition
Thyroxine sodium tablets should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. It should be kept out of the reach of children and pets.
Volume of Distribution
Thyroxine sodium has a volume of distribution of 0.7 to 1.1 L/kg. This means that it is found in the tissues of the body in higher concentrations than in the plasma, or the fluid portion of the blood.
Half Life
Thyroxine sodium has a half-life of 6 to 7 days. This means that, on average, half of the medication will remain active in the body, and half will be eliminated.
Clearance
Thyroxine sodium is primarily eliminated through the kidneys, but it may also be eliminated through the intestines. The rate of elimination is affected by the patient’s age, nutritional status, hydration level, and underlying medical conditions.
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