Overview
LEVOTIRON 25mcg Tablet is a pharmaceutical product containing the active substance Levothyroxine Sodium, manufactured by Abdi İbrahim, a leading pharmaceutical company. Levothyroxine is a synthetic form of the naturally occurring thyroid hormone, thyroxine (T4), which is produced by the thyroid gland. This medication is primarily used to treat hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, and depression. LEVOTIRON helps restore normal levels of thyroid hormone in the body, improving metabolic function and overall health.
Composition
Each LEVOTIRON 25mcg tablet contains:
- Active Ingredient: Levothyroxine Sodium – 25 micrograms
- Inactive Ingredients: The tablet may also contain excipients such as microcrystalline cellulose, sodium starch glycolate, magnesium stearate, and lactose monohydrate, which aid in the stability, absorption, and bioavailability of the active ingredient.
Mechanism of Action
Levothyroxine Sodium, the active ingredient in LEVOTIRON, is a synthetic form of thyroxine (T4), a hormone normally produced by the thyroid gland. Once administered, Levothyroxine is absorbed into the bloodstream and converted into triiodothyronine (T3) in peripheral tissues. T3 is the active form of thyroid hormone that interacts with receptors in various cells, regulating gene expression and metabolic processes.
Thyroid hormones are essential for normal growth, development, and metabolism. They regulate numerous physiological functions, including energy production, protein synthesis, and the function of the cardiovascular and nervous systems. By supplementing the body’s thyroid hormone levels, LEVOTIRON helps alleviate the symptoms of hypothyroidism and supports normal metabolic activity.
Indications
LEVOTIRON 25mcg is indicated for:
- Hypothyroidism: Used to treat various forms of hypothyroidism, including primary, secondary (pituitary), and tertiary (hypothalamic) hypothyroidism. It is effective in managing congenital hypothyroidism and acquired hypothyroidism.
- Goiter: Used to reduce the size of goiters, particularly in cases where iodine deficiency or hypothyroidism is the underlying cause. LEVOTIRON can be used to treat both simple and nodular goiters.
- Thyroid Cancer: Used as part of the treatment regimen for thyroid cancer, particularly after thyroidectomy, to suppress tumor growth and reduce the likelihood of recurrence.
- Thyroid Suppression Test: Utilized in diagnostic tests to assess thyroid function and differentiate between various forms of thyroid dysfunction.
Dosage and Administration
The dosage of LEVOTIRON 25mcg varies depending on the patient’s age, weight, severity of hypothyroidism, and response to therapy. It is crucial to follow the prescribing physician’s recommendations. Typically, the starting dose is lower, especially in elderly patients or those with cardiovascular conditions, and gradually increased based on the patient’s TSH levels and clinical response.
- Adults: The initial dose usually ranges from 25 mcg to 50 mcg per day. The dose may be adjusted in increments of 12.5 to 25 mcg every 2 to 4 weeks until the desired clinical response is achieved. The maintenance dose often falls between 75 mcg and 200 mcg per day.
- Children: The starting dose for children varies according to age and weight. Pediatric dosing is carefully adjusted based on regular monitoring of thyroid function tests.
- Elderly: Lower initial doses are recommended to minimize the risk of adverse cardiovascular effects. The dose is gradually increased under close supervision.
LEVOTIRON should be taken on an empty stomach, typically 30 to 60 minutes before breakfast, with a full glass of water. Consistency in timing is crucial to maintaining stable thyroid hormone levels. Avoid taking the tablet with substances that may interfere with its absorption, such as calcium or iron supplements.
Contraindications
LEVOTIRON 25mcg is contraindicated in:
- Untreated Adrenal Insufficiency: In patients with adrenal insufficiency, Levothyroxine may exacerbate adrenal insufficiency. Adequate corticosteroid therapy should be initiated before starting LEVOTIRON.
- Thyrotoxicosis: LEVOTIRON is contraindicated in untreated thyrotoxicosis, as it may increase the risk of severe hyperthyroidism.
- Allergic Reaction: Patients with known hypersensitivity to Levothyroxine Sodium or any of the excipients in the formulation should not use this medication.
Warnings and Precautions
- Cardiovascular Disease: Patients with underlying cardiovascular conditions, such as ischemic heart disease, angina pectoris, or hypertension, should be closely monitored. Levothyroxine therapy may increase the risk of adverse cardiac events, particularly in elderly patients or those with a history of heart disease.
- Bone Health: Long-term use of Levothyroxine in excessive doses may lead to decreased bone mineral density, particularly in postmenopausal women. Regular monitoring of bone health and appropriate dose adjustments are recommended.
- Diabetes: Levothyroxine can affect blood glucose levels. Diabetic patients should monitor their blood glucose levels closely and adjust their diabetes medication as needed under medical supervision.
- Pregnancy and Lactation: Levothyroxine is considered safe during pregnancy and lactation. However, dose adjustments may be necessary due to increased thyroid hormone requirements during pregnancy. Regular monitoring of thyroid function is essential.
Side Effects
Although LEVOTIRON is generally well-tolerated, some patients may experience side effects, particularly when the dose is too high. Common side effects include:
- Cardiovascular: Palpitations, tachycardia, arrhythmias, and chest pain, particularly in patients with pre-existing heart conditions.
- Neurological: Headache, insomnia, nervousness, tremors, and anxiety.
- Gastrointestinal: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps.
- Musculoskeletal: Muscle weakness, cramps, and joint pain.
- Metabolic: Weight loss, increased appetite, and excessive sweating.
- Allergic Reactions: Rarely, hypersensitivity reactions such as rash, urticaria, and angioedema may occur.
Patients should report any persistent or severe side effects to their healthcare provider. Dose adjustments may be necessary to minimize adverse effects.
Drug Interactions
LEVOTIRON may interact with several medications, potentially altering its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. Some notable interactions include:
- Antacids and Iron/Calcium Supplements: These can reduce the absorption of Levothyroxine. It is recommended to take LEVOTIRON at least 4 hours apart from these substances.
- Anticoagulants: Levothyroxine may enhance the effects of anticoagulants like warfarin, increasing the risk of bleeding. Close monitoring of INR and dose adjustment may be required.
- Antidiabetic Medications: Levothyroxine may alter blood glucose levels, necessitating adjustments in insulin or oral hypoglycemic drug doses.
- Beta-blockers: Beta-blockers like propranolol may reduce the conversion of T4 to T3, affecting the efficacy of Levothyroxine.
- Estrogens and Hormonal Contraceptives: These may increase the binding of thyroid hormones to serum proteins, reducing the availability of free thyroid hormone. Dose adjustments of LEVOTIRON may be needed.
- Antidepressants: Certain antidepressants, especially tricyclics, may enhance the effects of Levothyroxine, potentially leading to increased side effects.
Storage and Handling
LEVOTIRON 25mcg tablets should be stored at room temperature, away from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat. Keep the medication in its original container, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Do not use the tablets after the expiration date indicated on the packaging.
Patient Counseling Information
Patients prescribed LEVOTIRON 25mcg should be counseled on the importance of adherence to their dosing schedule and regular monitoring of thyroid function. They should be informed about the potential side effects and the need to report any unusual symptoms to their healthcare provider. Patients should also be advised on the importance of maintaining consistency in the timing of their doses and avoiding substances that may interfere with Levothyroxine absorption.
Conclusion
LEVOTIRON 25mcg Tablet is a vital medication for individuals suffering from hypothyroidism and other thyroid-related conditions. Manufactured by Abdi İbrahim, a trusted name in the pharmaceutical industry, LEVOTIRON offers a reliable solution for restoring and maintaining normal thyroid hormone levels. With its carefully regulated dosage and proven efficacy, LEVOTIRON helps patients manage their symptoms, improve their quality of life, and prevent the long-term complications associated with thyroid hormone deficiency. As with any medication, proper usage, regular monitoring, and adherence to medical advice are essential to achieving the best outcomes with LEVOTIRON therapy.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.