Questions and Answers
What are the brand names for Levothyroxine Sodium? (Select all that apply)
What is the chemical class of Levothyroxine Sodium?
Synthetic levoisomer of thyroxine (T4)
What is the primary indication for Levothyroxine Sodium?
Hypothyroidism
What is the initial starting dose for Levothyroxine Sodium?
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What are the adverse effects associated with Levothyroxine Sodium?
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What are some contraindications of Levothyroxine Sodium?
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What is the mechanism of action for Levothyroxine Sodium?
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What types of drug interactions may occur with Levothyroxine Sodium?
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Which of the following is recommended for patient counseling for Levothyroxine Sodium? (Select all that apply)
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Study Notes
Levothyroxine Sodium Overview
- Brand names include Synthroid, Levoxyl, and Levothroid; the generic name is levothyroxine sodium.
- Classified as a synthetic levoisomer of thyroxine (T4).
Indications and Dosage
- Primarily used to treat hypothyroidism.
- Initial starting dose typically ranges from 100-125 mcg taken orally once daily.
Adverse Effects
- Associated with increased bone resorption which can lead to decreased bone mineral density.
- Other adverse effects, not indicative of overdose, are rare.
Contraindications
- Not suitable for patients with uncorrected adrenal cortical insufficiency, untreated thyrotoxicosis, or acute myocardial infarction.
- Avoid use in patients with hypersensitivity to any inactive ingredients in the formulation.
Mechanism of Action
- The precise mechanism of action is unknown, but it is believed to influence DNA transcription and protein synthesis.
Drug Interactions
- Interactions with drugs that affect thyroid hormone metabolism may alter Levothyroxine Sodium’s therapeutic response.
- May enhance the effects of oral anticoagulants, while medications like cholestyramine can decrease Levothyroxine’s absorption.
- Effectiveness of digitalis glycosides may be diminished when taken with Levothyroxine Sodium.
Patient Counseling
- Advise patients not to discontinue therapy without consulting a physician.
- It should be consumed as a single dose on an empty stomach, ideally one hour before or two hours after meals.
- Patients should inform their physician if symptoms of hyperthyroidism occur, indicating potential overdose.
- Transient hair loss may occur in children, but this is typically reversible.
- Store the medication in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight and children.
- If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible unless it’s almost time for the next dose; then skip the missed dose—do not double up.
- Caution against taking iron, calcium supplements, or antacids within 4 hours of Levothyroxine Sodium administration.
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Test your knowledge of Levothyroxine Sodium with these flashcards. Learn the brand and generic names, chemical class, primary indications, and dosing information. A great resource for students and professionals in the medical field.
