Managing Hypothyroidism with Euthyrox
Understanding Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough hormones, leading to a slowdown in the body's metabolism, energy, and growth processes. This can result in symptoms that develop gradually, such as severe fatigue, unexpected weight gain, constipation, dry skin, hair loss, cold sensitivity, and mood changes. Hypothyroidism is more common in women and the risk increases with age, but it can affect anyone, including children.
Learn more about Hypothyroidism
Levothyroxine: First-Line Treatment Option
Levothyroxine, a synthetic version of the thyroid hormone thyroxine (T4), is the first-line treatment for hypothyroidism. Its effectiveness depends on maintaining precise and consistent potency, which is why it is available in a wide range of doses measured in micrograms (mcg), a unit much smaller than those of many other medications. Additionally, environmental factors such as light, oxygen, and moisture can diminish its potency.
Learn more about Levothyroxine
EUTHYROX: Brand Levothyroxine with Blister Packaging
Primarily used in Europe, EUTHYROX is the most prescribed levothyroxine brand worldwide and became available in the U.S. in 2023.
The main difference between EUTHYROX and generic levothyroxine is the packaging of the products. EUTHYROX comes in a blister packaging, designed to protect it from light, oxygen, and moisture.
When levothyroxine is dispensed at the pharmacy or stored in a prescription bottle at home, it is subjected to these environmental factors which can gradually reduce the potency of the medication. Studies have shown that levothyroxine stored in bottles can lose its effectiveness within 30 days.
Indications and Administration
EUTHYROX is approved for use in both pediatric and adult patients to serve as a replacement therapy for congenital or acquired hypothyroidism. It’s also prescribed for goiter, especially when the goiter is caused by hypothyroidism due to hormonal imbalance, radiation therapy, surgical interventions, or cancer.
EUTHYROX can be taken by mouth, typically once daily on an empty stomach, 30 minutes to 1 hour before having breakfast. It is recommended to take this medication with a complete glass of water unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
Side Effects
Common side effects:
- Shortness of breath
- Headaches, leg cramps, muscle pain, or weakness
- Feeling nervous, anxious, irritable, or having tremors
- Difficulty sleeping, including insomnia
- Increased appetite
- Weight loss
- Increased sweating or feeling
- Diarrhea or vomiting
- Stomach cramps
- Skin rash
- Experiencing partial hair loss
If you are experiencing any of these side effects be sure to talk with your healthcare provider to determine whether a dose adjustment or switching to a different medication would be beneficial for you.
Seirous side effects:
- Difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, weakness, or tiredness
- Chest pain or pain that’s spreading to your jaws or shoulders
- Dizziness, lightheadedness, anxiety, fast heartbeat, or nausea
- Hot flashes, fever, or sweating
- Headaches, leg cramps, or muscle aches
- Memory problems, feeling depressed, nervous, or irritables
- Dryness in your skin or hair, temporary hair loss
- Irregular menstrual periods
If you are experiencing any of these serious side effects, immediately call your doctor and stop taking this medication.
Caution: EUTHYROX is not intended for obesity treatment or weight loss.
Thyroid hormones, such as EUTHYROX, whether used alone or with other medications, should not be used to treat obesity or weight loss. In those with normal thyroid function, doses within the range of daily hormonal requirements are ineffective for weight loss. Administering larger doses may lead to severe or potentially life-threatening side effects.
Warning: EUTHYROX has a narrow therapeutic index.
Incorrect dosing, whether excessive or insufficient, may result in adverse problems affecting various aspects of your health, including growth, cardiovascular health, bone metabolism, reproductive function, cognitive abilities, emotional well-being, gastrointestinal function, as well as glucose and lipid metabolism in both adult and pediatric individuals.
Your doctor needs to adjust your dosage cautiously through titration and closely monitor your response to avoid these potential adverse effects.
Interactions
EUTHYROX may interact with certain medications or supplements. That is why it is important to inform your doctor and pharmacist about any other medications or supplements, including prescribed and over-the-counter, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements, that you are currently taking.
It's recommended to administer EUTHYROX at least 4 hours before or after taking medications known to interfere with its absorption.
It is also recommended to avoid using EUTHYROX with medications that could increase your risk of certain side effects, some of these medications including proton pump inhibitors, such as esomeprazole or omeprazole, as well as Tums or Cholestyramine.
Cost and Doses
EUTHYROX is as affordable as generic levothyroxine at Marley Drug, thanks to an agreement with the U.S. provider, Provell Pharmaceuticals. This agreement enables Marley Drug to bypass wholesalers and insurance middlemen, passing on the saving to customers.
- $18/30 tablets
- $30/90 tablets
- $44/180 tablets
- $84/360 tablets
Doses: 25, 50, 75, 88, 100, 112, 125, 137, 150, 175, 200 mcg
Talk with your doctor
Consult with your doctor about EUTHYROX for hypothyroidism treatment to ensure it suits your specific needs. A discussion with your healthcare provider can provide insights into EUTHYROX's benefits, such as normalizing thyroid hormone levels, reducing hypothyroidism symptoms.
Furthermore, a conversation about EUTHYROX enables correct dosage determination, monitoring of treatment effectiveness, and management of any possible side effects or drug interactions, guaranteeing the safest and most beneficial therapeutic approach.