How effective is Levothyroxine for hypothyroidism?

Levothyroxine is a synthetic replacement for hormonal thyroxine (T4), which is usually produced by the thyroid gland. It is often taken by patients whose thyroid gland does not exclude the hormone properly. It has been shown that treatment with this drug significantly reduces symptoms in some patients. It can also prevent some of the body functions when it is associated with certain health conditions. Like any medicine, people taking Levothyroxine for hypothyroidism should be aware of possible side effects and interactions with other drugs they can take.

hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland ceases to form a hormone T4. The thyroid is located in the neck of the neck, in the shape of a butterfly on both sides of the trachea. It is controlled by pituitary gland, deep in the brain. This gland is responsible for the production of thyroxine (T4) and triodothyronine (T3), which help regulate the basal metabolic speed of the body (BMR) and its caregulation lacium. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, cold sensitivity, weight gain, dry skina woman and hair and cognitive changes.

thyroid disease is diagnosed primarily by blood tests and examinations to determine the best dose of levothyroxine for hypothyroidism for each individual patient. Too little hormone does not make symptoms and too much can cause hyperthyroidism so that the correct balance is necessary. Patients who are undiagnosed or who do not use drugs may eventually fall into myxedema or serious hypothyroidism. The function of the body and the brain slows down until it stops, resulting in a coma or death.

Levothyroxine for hypothyroidism should ideally be used every day at the same time and can be taken with or without food. It is recommended that the patient uses the same brand, as generations can change their ingredients and some may be sensitive changes. Some other drugs may disrupt the absorption of levothyroxine of the intestines notBO cause the body to metabolize too quickly, resulting in lower levels. The patient's doctor and the pharmacist should be aware that any other medication used.

Pregnant women who need levothyroxine for hypothyroidism is usually not recommended to stop taking it. During pregnancy, it is considered to be relatively safe and higher doses may be needed to ensure that the fetus gets enough hormone. Baby deficiency can cause severe mental retardation. Hypothyroidism requires lifelong therapy and regular monitoring with annual blood tests or more often if symptoms repeat or change the patient's needs.