Clinical Overview
Thyroxine Sodium (Levothyroxine, T4, 25 mcg - 150 mcg) is synthetic crystalline levothyroxine sodium on the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines. It is identical to endogenous T4 secreted by the human thyroid gland. In peripheral target tissues, it is deiodinated by iodothyronine deiodinases into active triiodothyronine (T3), which enters the cell nucleus to bind thyroid hormone receptors, regulating basal metabolic rate, protein synthesis, lipid and carbohydrate metabolism, and normal cardiovascular function. Narrow therapeutic index drug. Indicated for replacement therapy in primary, secondary, and tertiary hypothyroidism of any etiology, and pituitary TSH suppression in thyroid cancer.
Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients
Verified Clinical References
Usage Guidelines
Take orally once daily as a single dose strictly in the morning on an empty stomach with a full glass of plain water, at least 30 to 60 minutes before breakfast, tea, coffee, or other medications. Do not take with milk, coffee, calcium, or iron supplements (separate by at least 4 hours). Consistent daily timing is critical. Regular serum TSH testing is required every 6-8 weeks until euthyroid.
General Administration Advice: Adhere strictly to the prescribed dosage, frequency, and treatment course. For oral medications, swallow with sufficient water. Never stop antibiotics, psychiatric medications, or antihypertensives abruptly without clinical direction.
Possible Side Effects
Common: None when properly dosed. If over-replaced (iatrogenic hyperthyroidism): tachycardia, palpitations, nervousness, insomnia, tremors, weight loss, heat intolerance, diaphoresis, diarrhea. Rare/Severe: Boxed warning: Should not be used for weight reduction; cardiac arrhythmias, angina pectoris, myocardial infarction in elderly patients, and reduced bone mineral density (osteopenia).
*Note: Individual physiological responses vary. While many patients experience few or no side effects, notify your treating physician if adverse reactions persist or if hypersensitivity (angioedema, skin rash, dyspnea) occurs.
Precautions & Warnings
Black box warning: Thyroid hormones should not be used alone or with other therapeutic agents for the treatment of obesity or weight loss. Caution in patients with underlying coronary artery disease; start with low doses (12.5-25 mcg) and titrate slowly to prevent angina. Separate administration from calcium carbonate, ferrous sulfate, and antacids by at least 4 hours.
Schedule H (Prescription Required)
This medication is scheduled under statutory drug regulatory frameworks (CDSCO / Drugs & Cosmetics Rules). Dispensing requires a valid medical prescription from a registered medical practitioner. Self-medication or unsupervised dosage adjustment carries significant clinical risks.
Medical Disclaimer: Statutory Clinical Disclaimer: The information provided is for educational and price-transparency purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, clinical diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Always consult a registered endocrinologist, diabetologist, or qualified physician before initiating, adjusting dosages of, or substituting any antidiabetic or hormonal medication.