Synthroid Flashcards

Study Notes

Synthroid Overview

Generic name is Levothyroxine sodium, a synthetic form of T4 hormone.
Classified as a hormone/thyroid medication.

Dosage Forms

Available as oral tablets in various strengths: 25, 50, 75, 88, 100, 112, 125, 137, 150, 175, 200, and 300 mcg.
Injectable forms are provided at 200 and 500 mcg per vial.

Dosage Equivalence

0.1 mg of L-thyroxine is roughly equivalent to 65 mg of dessicated thyroid.

Indications

Primarily used for replacement therapy in individuals with reduced or absent thyroid function.
Effective in treating myxedema coma or stupor.

Normal Dosage Guidelines

Typical adult dosage ranges from 20-300 mcg taken orally once daily.

Pediatric Dosages

Infants (0-1 years): 9 mcg/kg/day
Children (1-5 years): 6 mcg/kg/day
Children (6-10 years): 4 mcg/kg/day
Adolescents (11-20 years): 3 mcg/kg/day

Myxedema Coma Treatment

Initial dosing of 200-500 mcg intravenously on the first day.
Followed by 100-300 mcg on the second day, and 50-100 mcg daily thereafter.

Mechanism of Action

Acts by controlling protein synthesis, leading to:
- Regulation of growth and development.
- Increased metabolic rate.
- Inhibition of pituitary thyrotropin secretion.
- Influences lipid and carbohydrate metabolism.

Drug Interactions

May enhance the effects of oral anticoagulants.
Cholestyramine can reduce the absorption of Synthroid.
May decrease the effectiveness of digitalis glycosides.

Contraindications and Precautions

Not recommended for patients with adrenal cortical insufficiency, untreated thyrotoxicosis, or acute myocardial infarction.
Caution advised in nursing mothers, individuals with cardiovascular disease, hypopituitarism, diabetes, and those on anticoagulants.
Classified as Pregnancy category A.

Adverse Effects

Rarely causes adverse effects; overdose may result in hypermetabolic states.
Symptoms of overdose can include fever, hypoglycemia, heart failure, fluid loss, tachycardia, anxiety, and insomnia.

Patient Consultation Points

Patients should not stop using Synthroid without consulting a doctor.
Take medication on an empty stomach, ideally 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals.
Report any signs of overdose to a healthcare provider.
Temporary hair loss may occur in children.
Store medication in a cool, dry environment.
If a dose is missed, take it promptly, unless close to the next dose time; do not double doses.

Description

This quiz contains important flashcards related to Synthroid, including its generic name, drug class, dosage forms, and dosage equivalence. Perfect for students or healthcare professionals looking to reinforce their knowledge on this essential thyroid medication.

Synthroid Flashcards

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Questions and Answers

What is the generic name for Synthroid?

What drug class does Synthroid belong to?

List dosage forms of Synthroid.

What is the dosage equivalence for 0.1 mg L-thyroxine?

What are the indications for Synthroid?

What is the normal dosage for adults with reduced thyroid function?

What are the recommended dosages for children and adolescents taking Synthroid?

What is the dosing for myxedema coma or stupor?

What is the mechanism of action of Synthroid?

What are common drug interactions with Synthroid?

What are contraindications for using Synthroid?

What are the adverse effects of Synthroid?

Which of the following are part of patient consultation for Synthroid? (Select all that apply)